"Dan's back?""Daniel, why were you so late today? Were you busy?""Daniel, would it be okay if Sienna stays at our place?""Is everything okay with you?"Daniel couldn't make out a single word amidst the noisy chatter of his family. He looked at Sienna with an intense gaze, feeling like he'd forgotten how to breathe, his heart racing.Mila leaned close to Nathan, her hand muffling her soft giggles as she whispered, "Nate, did you notice how Daniel's looking at her? It's obvious he's smitten."Nathan chuckled affectionately and caressed her head as he murmured, "Perhaps you should focus on my gaze instead of eyeing other guys.""Let's play matchmaker for them," Mila suggested."Let's leave them be. We'll see how things play out," Nathan replied."But—"Nathan gently held Mila's head, drawing her nearer as he whispered, "Forced relationships rarely end well. It seems your friend might not be as keen on him as you believe."Mila sighed with resignation, her tone tinged with bi
Sienna had just settled into her room when she heard a knock at the door. She opened it, expecting to see Mila, but was surprised to find Daniel standing there.Feeling anxious, she asked, "Do you need something?"Daniel's gaze was intense, but his tone was gentle. "My room is right next to yours. If you need anything, don't hesitate to come find me."Sienna couldn't imagine what she might need from him. She pursed her lips, feeling a bit helpless. Mila must've deliberately placed her guest room next to Daniel's; she was sure of that. Out of politeness, Sienna nodded and said, "Okay."Just as she was about to close the door, Daniel placed his hand on it, looking slightly nervous as he gazed at her."Anything else?" Sienna asked.Daniel slowly withdrew his hand. His Adam's apple bobbed as he spoke in a husky tone, "How… long will you be staying?"Sienna felt a twinge of sadness but responded casually, "You don't want me to stay here?"Daniel hurried to explain, "No, that's not
Sienna shook her head again. "No, thanks."Even though her tone was soft, she seemed distant.Daniel was the one who ended their relationship, so he had even less reason to talk to her.Despite knowing he shouldn't and knowing it wouldn't lead anywhere, he couldn't help but desperately want to be near her and be kind to her.Sensing the tension, Sienna changed the subject. "Where are your parents?""They took some of their grandkids to classes," Daniel answered promptly."Oh." Sienna smiled and politely nodded goodbye. "Then, I'll be off."With that, she turned and left.Daniel paced around the living room, feeling restless. Unable to resist, he hurried out of the house and caught up with Sienna.Sienna was strolling along the street before Morrison Residence when Daniel grabbed her arm and turned her toward him.She jumped and looked at Daniel in confusion. When she realized it was him, a wave of anxiety washed over her, and she asked, "What is it?""Ditching breakfast isn'
This time, Daniel decided not to go after her anymore. Sienna's words helped him think again. Knowing they didn't have a future together, he realized he shouldn't keep bothering her.Even though it hurt, and he desperately wanted to be with her, he had to accept it. They couldn't overcome the obstacle of Shelly between them, so why make things harder for Sienna?As Daniel watched Sienna walk away, tears filled his eyes. He realized that holding back his love was even more painful than losing her.Daniel stuck to his usual routine of going to work and returning home in the following days.Sienna made a point to steer clear of him. At home, she tried to keep her distance whenever he was around.Meanwhile, Mila and Nathan were caught up in their wedding plans. Sometimes, Mila would ask Sienna to join her in checking out things and making decisions.Despite Mila's insistence, Sienna remained firm in her decision not to be a bridesmaid as she felt it wasn't right for her. Mila respect
Florence felt even more guilty. "Daniel, please take Sienna to the hospital later."Sienna frowned and looked at Daniel. "It's not as serious as you're making it out to be."She then gently reassured Florence, "Madam Florence, I'm really fine. It'll get better after I cool it under running water."Florence was overwhelmed with guilt. She left the kitchen and asked a maid to clean up the sugar mixture on the floor.Standing before the faucet, Sienna could feel her back almost pressed against Daniel's chest. Her breathing grew a bit erratic.Daniel's warm hand held her wrist, sending an electric sensation through her skin and spreading through her whole body, making her legs feel weak."I can do it myself. Can you let go of me?" Sienna muttered quietly.Daniel's heart pounded. The refreshing fragrance of her hair made his mind wander, and he couldn't stay calm.He slowly released Sienna's wrist and advised, "Cool it under running water for another ten minutes. I'll take you to th
As the sun sank beneath the horizon, casting the sky in shades of red, Daniel stood on the balcony just off the living room, enjoying the beautiful view. He felt much better since Sienna's arrival. Nathan came down from upstairs and noticed Daniel on the balcony, looking lonely and sad. He walked over and put a hand on Daniel's shoulder. "You've been taking more breaks lately," he said. Daniel turned to him with a gentle smile but remained silent.He hadn't taken a day off in the past year. He kept himself occupied with various tasks. It was to prevent his mind from wandering to Sienna and to suppress any urge to reach out to her.Daniel even avoided learning about any news regarding her or mentioning her name, fearing he would lose control and struggle to move on."How's it going?" Nathan asked as he dropped his hand and leaned against the railing, looking at Daniel."What do you mean?" Daniel looked puzzled."She's here. What's your plan?"Daniel understood the implicatio
Sienna hesitated for a moment, casting a glance back at Mila.Mila pushed Sienna toward the door. "Quick. Go on.""All right. I'll leave now," Sienna said, picking up her pace to catch up with Daniel.They stepped outside and got into the car. Later, Sienna gave Daniel the address.During the drive, Sienna kept her gaze fixed out of the window. The atmosphere in the car was heavy with tension.Daniel sneakily looked at her several times, seeing how distant she seemed throughout the journey."Is there something urgent?" Daniel couldn't help but ask, his concern evident in his voice.Sienna responded with a hum."Do you need any help?" he asked again. "No, thank you."Silence settled between them once more. Eventually, the car pulled up before a large building. Sienna unfastened her seatbelt and stepped out of the car.Before closing the door, she turned to Daniel and expressed her gratitude. "Thank you. You don't have to wait for me. You can head back."She closed the door
Sienna stood up, her tone calm and resolute. "However you choose to cancel the event, it's none of my concern. I'll be there on the agreed date with the readers, even if just one shows up. I won't disappoint them." With that, she nodded goodbye and turned to leave. But Harvey hurried to catch up. "Sienna, wait. Let's talk it through and resolve this." "Your solution is for me to admit fault, offer compensation, and take down my book." Harvey walked beside her, saying, "The best approach is to handle this quietly before it becomes widely known." Standing by the elevator, Sienna pressed the button and turned to him. "Harvey, I'll say it again. I won't admit to something I didn't do." "Fine. Do you have any proof?" he asked. "Does having the draft count?" "Of course not." Sienna's face grew darker. When the elevator doors opened, she stepped inside. Harvey followed her, trying to reason. "Alright, I believe it's your draft, but they updated their work three months bef
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