Nathan and his team stumbled upon an extremely luxurious secret basement. It had a king-sized gray bed, a bar stocked with fancy wines, a home theater system, books, and almost everything.Although the soldiers searched the place, they didn't find anyone. Nathan carefully examined the place but didn't find anything suspicious. Someone was obviously living there, but they weren't Mila's missing family."General Morrison, take a look at this." Cole's voice was tense.Nathan turned and saw Cole holding a scalpel. "Where did you get that?""From a drawer.""That's Oliver's," Nathan said gravely."You mean he's been hiding out at Hoffis Manor all this time?""He and Lucas have been hiding here," Nathan said confidently."Where are they now?" Cole asked.Nathan thought briefly, then quickly headed outside. "Let's look for Avery's brother."They all left the hidden passage and entered the living room. Avery came downstairs with a slightly plump man. His face was puffy, his feature
The first rays of morning sunlight seeped through the window, painting the room with a gentle glow. Mila was still in slumber when she heard the door creak open. Startled awake, she slowly rose, her gaze landing on an unexpected visitor. Fenna stood at the doorway; her initial surprise quickly clouded with dismay. "Why are you sleeping in Nate's room?" she snapped. Mila clenched her fists slowly, her irritation mounting as Fenna's intrusion disrupted the peace of the early morning. She wondered why Fenna would know the passcode to Nathan's room. "Why shouldn't I stay in my husband's room?" Mila retorted, her tone tinged with annoyance. With a grim expression, Fenna rushed into the bathroom, grabbing a cloth and setting to work on the chair and cabinet surfaces. Mila watched her with confusion. "What's going on?" she asked, puzzled. Fenna let out a disdainful snort, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. "You don't know how to clean, but can't you tell what I'm doing?" Taking
She's not treating Nathan well? Mila was left speechless. For Nathan, she had risked exposing her true identity and ventured into the Nightshade headquarters to save him. She also forsook her homeland and her career in science, sacrificing her nationality in Sunterland to return to Norvania and start anew.She had entrusted Nathan with her most precious assets—her life and her career—carrying his child within her. Yet, was all this not sufficient? Must she also serve him like a maid to be deemed worthy? Mila felt a disconnect between herself and Fenna. She couldn't understand Fenna's mindset, just as Fenna couldn't grasp hers. Unable to drive Fenna away, Mila felt annoyed watching her wandering around the room. With a swift motion, she tossed aside the covers, slipped into her coat, shoes, and socks, and grabbed her phone, readying herself to leave. But as she took her first few steps, Fenna's voice echoed from behind, "Why don't you even bother to straighten the sheets an
Mila suppressed a smile, choosing not to reveal much, although she knew it well. She said, "Phoebe, my accomplishments today aren't solely the result of intelligence, but diligence as well. We all have the same amount of time. If we aim to learn and excel, we must be willing to sacrifice our time and delve into our pursuits. "Instead of spending one or two hours chatting aimlessly, which doesn't ease longing and only waste our time, why bother?" Phoebe smiled and asked, "So, that's why General Morrison thinks you're ruthless? You cut off all contact with him ten years ago." Mila gently patted Phoebe's head and reminded her, "Love isn't everything in life. We must learn to assess. Even if we deeply love someone, we must consider if they're worth it." "Is he worth it then?" Phoebe asked further. Mila blushed slightly and bit her lips. After thinking it over for a moment, she replied, "For now, he is." Undeterred, Phoebe persisted, "Mila, Fenna treats him like some sort of o
"Sienna isn't fierce at all. In fact, she's a very gentle girl. She only portrayed herself as tough and abrasive to pull you out of despair, employing tough tactics on you. She's actually very tender and lovely. "Her father had cancer before, and she was the only provider, supporting her family and covering her father's medical expenses. "She racked up significant debts to save him, but sadly, her father didn't make it in the end. Yet, she maintains a resilient and optimistic attitude. "Daniel, since you're single anyway, why not consider Sienna? She—" "I'm not worthy, Mila," Daniel cut her off before she could finish. Mila was taken aback. "Why?" Daniel forced a bitter smile and replied, "She's such a wonderful girl, and I'm just a blind fool. I'm not worthy of her." "Daniel, Sienna feels the same way about herself. I believe both of you underestimate your worth. Why not open your hearts and give it a try?" Daniel chuckled. "She's too kind. Can't you sense her gentle r
The weather gradually warmed, and in the blink of an eye, it was time for another prenatal checkup. Mila vividly recalled Nathan's insistence on being notified about each future appointment. However, he remained entrenched in his duties in Phoenicia. To avoid disrupting his work, Mila, accompanied by Phoebe, decided to visit the staff hospital for her examination. At seven months pregnant, the doctor advised Mila to return to Phoenicia for the delivery. The facilities at the staff hospital were deemed inadequate for labor, and the place lacked a neonatal ward. Mila applied for maternity leave from the company, deciding to return to Phoenicia with Phoebe secretly. She hadn't informed Nathan in advance, hoping to surprise him. From the moment they landed, Phoebe sensed an unsettling presence, as if they were being watched. On their way home, a mysterious vehicle tailed behind them. "Mila, something feels off. It seems like we're being followed. Should we alert General Morris
Phoebe stepped out of the car, ready to unload the luggage, when Cole approached with an inviting smile. "Let me handle that," he offered warmly. Phoebe glanced at him, her curiosity piqued. His cheerful grin was infectious, and his eyes were sparkling with delight. "What got you in such a good mood?" Phoebe asked curiously. Cole remained silent to her question. His eyes gleamed mischievously as he stole glances at Phoebe, and a perpetual smile played on his lips. "Did you win the lottery or something?" Phoebe asked, surprised. "Or hit the jackpot?" Cole chuckled softly. "No, I'm not into lottery." "Then why the big grin?"Cole's expression turned coy as he suppressed a smile before flashing his pearly-white teeth again. "Am I smiling?" Phoebe teased, "Either you've hit the jackpot or found a stash of cash, or perhaps you're excited about your wedding night." Cole paused for a moment, his cheeks flushing slightly before muttering, "I have no wife."With that, he push
Nathan couldn't fathom the consequences of the adhesion between the placenta and the uterine wall. With haste, he reached for his phone, eager to search online for answers. Mila promptly stopped him, her tone reassuring. "Don't look it up. The internet is full of scaremongering. There's nothing to worry about." Nathan's heart weighed heavy, his arm instinctively pulling her closer and planting a tender kiss on her forehead. "I've missed another check-up. I'm failing as a husband and father." Mila's voice softened. "It's okay. I don't blame you. But when I'm giving birth, I need you by my side." Nathan clasped her hand, bringing it tenderly to his lips. "I'll be there for you and our child, I promise." "No matter how busy you are, I want you to witness our baby's first moments. And I hope the first person I see after leaving the delivery room is you." "I promise you, I'll never leave your side on the delivery day." With a contented smile, Mila closed her eyes and leaned i
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