"Have you all said enough?" Ivy's voice rang out sharply. Ivy's powerful intervention caused the chatter to abruptly vanish. All the guests turned their gazes toward Ivy. Some openly showed curiosity, while others challenged her, waiting to see what Ivy intended to do or what she was capable of achieving. Having garnered everyone's attention, Ivy smirked and sarcastically asked: "So this is the style of the upper class, huh? One person speaks, and the whole group follows suit. Wow! Truly expanding horizons, so sophisticated, unmatched in class. If you have any sense, keep your mouths shut, or else the stench of decay will affect the atmosphere around you." The crowd roared with anger at Ivy's public insult directed at them. Are they crazy? Ivy wondered, dejectedly criticizing: The bunch of freeloaders, hearing her scold him, isn't enough; they want her to lecture the whole group for enlightenment. Fine, she'll grant their wish. "You all have nothing better to do than organize thi
Not stopping there, Ivy continued her tirade, her voice firm and sharp. "I may be poor, not as wealthy as many of you with loads of money. But at least I have enough to get by day to day. I don't have to sell my integrity or toss away my dignity. You rich folks can do whatever you want, say whatever you want, and have the right to degrade others, huh? Wrong. Let me tell you, this society strives for balance through the impartiality of the law. And the laws enacted are to protect those without money or a voice like mine. Open your ears and listen carefully. Talent is no match for character, and character is no match for morality." "Take a look at yourselves; have you been more ethical than others? Do you have the right or the qualification to look down upon or insult others?" Ivy interrogated with a steely tone, and no one responded. The atmosphere became silent, as if everyone only knew to listen to Ivy speak. She wasn't done yet. She would deal with it thoroughly. She turned to fi
Seeing that things seemed to have calmed down, Luke breathed a sigh of relief. He glanced over at her, determined that it was time to take decisive action. Since the issue at hand involved him, it was only natural that he should step up to handle everything, including the consequences. "Ivy! I'll take you home," Luke called out to her, grabbing her attention. Ivy immediately nodded in agreement. It was time to make a safe retreat. He moved closer to her, but once again, Mariko intervened. The Japanese girl held onto his arm tightly, stubbornly insisting on keeping him in place. Looking at the scene, everyone knew that things weren't over yet. Whether Ivy or Luke stopped their performances, this Japanese girl wouldn't cease her efforts to disrupt everything, just to create some chaos tonight and keep the two of them apart. Who knew what disadvantages awaited Mariko after he and Ivy left? Mariko couldn't help but worry. It was better to be safe than sorry; prevention was better than c
Finally, Mariko let go, and Luke immediately distanced himself from the girl. Everyone could see Luke's intention. Not stopping there, he deliberately let out a sigh of relief, letting everyone know how incredibly comfortable and even amused he felt. Mariko couldn't believe he would do that, pretending to be relieved to be free from her. His actions indirectly admitted to the world that he didn't like her, inadvertently embarrassing her in front of everyone. But that's the way it was; he didn't like her. Admitting the truth—what's wrong with that? It was because Mariko stubbornly deluded herself about his feelings. She imposed her personal thoughts on others, so now she had to bear the consequences. Who's to blame? The girl looked pitiful, but it's her own fault. If not loving someone is a crime, then everyone in this world would be condemned. If Luke's behavior is judged as unworthy of a man, then it's a misunderstanding. Luke is not wrong to push away other women when they try to a
"You can't make me silent because everything I say is the truth," Mariko mischievously mocked Luke. "The 'truth' you speak of is nothing but your own fabrication. Stop manipulating and meddling in Ivy's affairs," Luke disregarded the onlookers, openly rebuking Mariko. "When I used to behave decently and honorably towards you, you should apologize to Ivy as well as the guests present tonight and quietly leave. Otherwise, I will escort you out of here in unprecedented disgrace." "Luke, do you dare? I don't believe." Mariko openly challenged him. Before Luke could respond to Mariko, Ivy quickly intervened. "Hey, please focus on the person you need to converse with. Don't ignore me like that; it's very disrespectful." Ivy's voice cut through the tension, interrupting the battle between the two. She decided it was time to end it; she was exhausted. Ivy wished she could go home, take a shower, and rest. All the energy she had accumulated just to deal with this mess was truly wasted. I
No one can believe what's happening. The Yamagi household must be in turmoil over Mariko's immature behavior. "Mariko, You..." Ether started to move forward, but Tegan stopped him. He looked at his older sister in confusion. Tegan simply requested that he stay put, believing Ivy could handle things gracefully. And as Tegan predicted, Ivy quickly took action appropriate for the situation. "Black rose fragrance, mesmerizing and intense, a high-end perfume brand from France," Ivy chuckled, history demanding her poise. "I happen to be allergic to perfume, so please excuse me if I keep my distance." Ivy waved her hand, and Mariko understood that Ivy was criticizing her unglamorous behavior. Mariko felt embarrassed and reluctantly complied with Ivy's request, stepping back. However, Mariko's eyes were like daggers, poised to pierce Ivy with their intensity. The enmity no one wanted had already surfaced, eager to vanquish the opponent; if not promptly restrained or extinguished, I fear t
The entire room seemed frozen, everyone immobile as they watched Ivy's graceful and dazzling steps. Only when she disappeared from the entrance did they awaken. The crowd murmured, some expressing admiration, others praising Ivy. Luke seized the opportunity to quickly hand over all the belongings to his old sister, then hurriedly followed Ivy as she vanished from the elegant room. Mariko had tried to stop him, but neither Tegan nor Ether hesitated to intervene. They could only endure so much. If Mariko continues to act impulsively and irrationally according to her own whims, the situation will indeed become irreparable. Tonight ends here. It's enough for scandals and controversies. Luckily, the guests were all close acquaintances, carefully chosen and invited, so discretion could be ensured. There weren't any reporters, media outlets, or paparazzi sneaking in here. Abe rarely dealt with the media, preferring a low-profile approach. "I think we can't leave her alone, especially at th
"I'm telling the truth; no lies here." Seeing Ivy's skeptical look, Luke immediately defended himself. "Think about it; why would I deceive you? I don't gain anything from it. I'll even have to give you some money as a reward." In a moment of contemplative silence, Ivy smiled, thinking simply that helping others made her happy, even if what she did wasn't grandiose. Moreover, he was right; she didn't lose anything by trusting him. "So essentially, I've resolved my part; the rest is entirely up to you, isn't it?" Luke nodded in agreement with her opinion, showing his personal desire. "Will we have a chance to have tea together?" He hoped to establish a connection for the future. Because he knew that once Ivy left, he wouldn't have any reason to seek her out anymore. Not meeting clients after a deal ends was a principle that had to be followed. And he was sure Ivy always adhered to principles, not only at work but also in her personal life. "As friends." "I don't think so." Ivy shoo
That night, in a dark corner behind the school, Luke was ambushed.He hadn’t seen it coming. No one had ever dared to lay a hand on him this way before. But tonight, the darkness became a hiding place for the cowardly.A metal rod swung up from behind. Luke only heard the whoosh of the air before a sharp pain hit the back of his head, blurring his vision.He collapsed to the ground, but before he could react, another punch landed hard in his side."Damn it..." Luke staggered, trying to stand, but was kicked violently in the chest.A shout echoed through the silence."Ivy..."His voice barely left his throat when a figure rushed toward him.Ivy.Without hesitation, she kicked the person who was about to strike Luke again. Her movement was quick and precise, causing the attacker to fall to the ground. The remaining attackers froze for a moment before realizing that, despite being a teacher, Ivy was not someone to be easily bullied.She grabbed Luke’s arm, helping him to his feet."Are y
After several failed attempts, Luke still didn't give up and was determined to get back at Ivy. Knowing she often went to the storage room after school to collect teaching materials, he came up with a plan to lock her inside and teach her a lesson.One late afternoon, as the sunset painted the sky red, Luke quietly followed Ivy. When she entered the storage room, he quickly moved to shut the door behind her. However, before he could do so, a strong push from behind made him stumble and fall inside the room. The door slammed shut behind him, and the sound of the lock clicking shut echoed coldly.In the dim light, Luke heard footsteps fading away and a soft giggle. He realized that someone else, possibly someone with a grudge against him, had played a prank on him."Who's there?" Ivy's voice called from the corner of the room, wary."It's me, Luke," he replied, trying to stay calm."What are you doing here?" Ivy asked, moving closer."I... I came to check if you fell into my trap," Luke
The cafeteria of the juvenile detention center was always noisy and bustling at lunchtime, filled with those who didn’t care about the rules. In the middle of the crowd, Luke and his group were mocking a weak boy, knocking his food tray to the ground.“Pick it up, or do you want me to help you lick it clean?” One of the guys sneered.The sound of cruel laughter echoed as the poor boy bent down to pick up the crumbs, his hands trembling in fear. His eyes were red, but he bit his lip tightly, trying not to let the tears fall. The crowd around them stood by, some with their arms crossed indifferently, some laughing mockingly, but no one spoke up to help. A few others looked away, as if afraid that if they interfered, they would become the next target.Ivy had just entered, and the scene immediately caught her eye. A surge of anger rose in her chest, making her grip her food tray tightly. She hated this kind of bullying—hated the silence of those who only watched. With a deep breath, she
Mason and Tegan officially became husband and wife after a journey that was anything but rushed. At first, their marriage was merely an arrangement, not born out of love. But instead of letting the distance between them grow, they chose to take the time to understand each other, little by little, day by day. What started as simple conversations became the threads that connected them, and even their disagreements helped them see each other more clearly. Love did not come from obligation but from the moments they shared—quiet yet profound.On their special day, beneath the soft glow of the sunset on the beach, they exchanged vows in the presence of family and friends—those who truly wished them happiness. Gentle waves kissed the shore like a soothing melody, and the ocean breeze carried the sound of joyful laughter. When Mason took Tegan’s hand, their eyes met, speaking volumes without words. This was no longer just an arranged marriage—it was a choice of the heart.…One gentle morning
Ryan sat silently in the large armchair in the spacious living room, his eyes unconsciously drifting over the family portraits hanging on the walls. They captured the glorious moments of his lineage—lavish parties, strategic handshakes. But no matter how many times he looked, he couldn’t find himself in any of them.The sound of hurried footsteps interrupted his thoughts. His father, William, entered the room with his usual commanding presence. His face was stern, his sharp eyes fixed on Ryan. There was no need to guess—Ryan knew this conversation was inevitable."Ryan, you must understand that your marriage to Jena is not just a personal matter. It concerns the family's honor, the interests of the entire corporation," William’s deep voice carried weight with every word.Ryan lifted his head to meet his father’s gaze. There was no hesitation in his eyes, only a firm and unyielding determination. "I understand that very well. But I cannot marry someone I don’t love. I refuse to live a
Under the fading twilight, the soft melody from Ivy and Luke’s wedding still echoed behind, mingling with the laughter of the guests. But Zoe had no intention of staying any longer. This event had not gone the way she had hoped. Ivy had truly become Luke’s, and Ryan could do nothing but stand there, silently witnessing it all.Clenching her lips tightly, Zoe left the banquet in silence. She knew for certain that Ryan was drowning in despair and disappointment at that very moment. This was the perfect opportunity to approach him, to feign sympathy and understanding, and slowly make him forget Ivy and turn to her instead. If she was patient enough, she believed she could have Ryan.However, just as she stepped out of the wedding venue, a tall figure suddenly appeared in front of her, blocking her path. Zoe frowned as she recognized Mason."Get out of my way," she snapped, trying to sidestep him, but Mason stood firm like an immovable stone, his sharp eyes locking onto hers."Zoe, stop t
Amidst the whispers, the stares, and the uproar of a hall shaken by shocking news—her world suddenly fell silent.There was only him.Only his gaze.Only his words, reaching the deepest part of her heart."I'm an imperfect woman," Ivy confessed bravely."I'm also a man with many flaws," Luke responded immediately."I'm older than you," Ivy continued."I like mature women.""I can't have children.""I don't care where the children come from, as long as you're their mother.""You’re hopelessly stupid.""I love you, Ivy. Even if the whole world turns its back on you, I will still stand by your side. So, please, don't doubt my love."Luke gently tightened his grip on her hand, his eyes unwavering as he continued to pour out his heart."Ivy, please give me a chance," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "I don't ask for anything more than to fill the emptiness in your heart. I know you've suffered too much, endured too many losses that have made you unwilling to love or trust anyone agai
As announced, the wedding between Luke and Ivy took place the following morning. Ryan had initially refused to attend, unable to accept the reality, but in the end, he relented under Mason’s reasoning and forced himself to be there.The wedding reception was held at one of the most luxurious restaurants in the city. The venue was dazzling, adorned with fresh flowers and bathed in the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. Everything had been arranged overnight, a testament to the immense power of Luke’s family.Guests dressed in extravagant attire raised their glasses in celebration, but behind their polite smiles, whispers spread like wildfire, igniting a wave of speculation.On the large screen in the center of the hall, a series of images appeared—photos of Ivy intimately interacting with various men. One showed her holding hands with a man at a café, another captured her linking arms with someone as they left a hotel, and one even depicted her embracing a stranger in the dark.The enti
Before leaving, she suddenly paused and turned back to glance at the table beside her—where Ryan still sat, the wine glass in his hand trembling slightly under the warm glow of the lights.She tilted her head slightly, a gentle smile gracing her lips, yet it carried an unmistakable hint of provocation."Oh, right, Ryan," she spoke slowly, her voice soft but laced with sharpness. "I’d like to invite you to my wedding tomorrow. After all, we used to know each other. It would feel incomplete without you there."Ryan tightened his grip on the glass, his knuckles turning white. His eyes darkened, as deep as an abyss, yet his face remained composed, forcing an air of indifference.Luke said nothing, merely pulling Ivy away with effortless ease.Zoe, sitting beside Ryan, sneered as she noticed his tense expression."What’s wrong? Didn’t you always claim you didn’t care about her anymore? Then why are you so mad? I’d bet Ivy did that just to get back at you.""Shut up."Ryan’s sudden outburst