Justin's eyes widened by a fraction, but he quickly hid his shock. He snorted and asked, "What does that have to do with me?"Candice was frantic. "It's your child, Justin! Did you forget what happened a month ago? That night, we—""Shut up! You slithered into my bed that night and forced yourself on me while I was drunk, and now, you want to hold me accountable? Don't be stupid!" The mention of that night from a month ago left a bad taste in Justin's mouth.He wasn't so foolish. He had been so drunk that night that he was close to passing out on his bed. Candice had entered his room after that and climbed into bed with him on purpose!Candice froze. She didn't think Justin would be so heartless.She prided herself on knowing him like the back of her hand; he might seem cold and indifferent, but he was actually gullible and prone to being emotionally manipulated. She only needed to cry to make him side with her.More importantly, Justin wanted a kid. Candice had overheard him tel
Serena could tell how happy Damian sounded over the phone.After she hung up, she got a text from Willow informing her that she wouldn't be getting home early on account of her night shift.Serena reassured Willow she'd be fine going one night without her company. To prove it, she snapped a photo of herself with the movie playing in the background and sent it to Willow.Willow replied, "Get some sleep. We'll head over to Dr. Morris' tomorrow.""It's your day off the day after tomorrow. Shall we see her then?" Serena suggested."Sure." Having gotten Serena's reply, Willow cut a withering look at the man beside her and asked, "There, happy now?"Wilson was seated in the chair beside Willow's desk. He had one ankle propped up on his knee, the portrait of elegant nonchalance. He stared at the photo on Willow's phone and drew his gaze away after a few seconds."Yeah," he said with an approving nod, then rose to his feet. "Thanks for looking out for Serena for me the last few days. I
Serena sheepishly pocketed her phone and said, "How much do I owe you for the flowers, Mr. Quade? I'll transfer you the money.""Ms. Judd, may I know why you're speaking to the cactus beside you?" Wilson asked with wry humor.She pursed her lips and slowly lifted her gaze to Wilson. She wished she could admire his finely chiseled features and the flawless planes of his face, but she only felt disgusted by them. Memories from the other night rose in her mind, and she knew at once that those events had gotten to her more than she'd let on.When Wilson saw the blood drain from Serena's face, his heart tightened. He stepped back and said, "You should get going if you've got someplace to go."Relief rushed through Serena as she said, "Goodbye, Mr. Quade."She hurried out of the shop after that.Desiree watched as Serena scurried away and raised a brow. "What's up with your assistant today? She seemed skittish. Did something spook her?""Isn't it obvious? I spooked her," Wilson pointe
The studio was close to being a first-rate operation.The front desk was manned by a pair of youngsters—a man and a woman. Damian introduced them to Serena, "These are my business partners.""Your business partners seem pretty well-off," Serena observed."They are," Damian replied.Upon seeing Damian, the young woman at the front desk hurried forward. "Took you forever to come back up, Damian! Let me take a look at this model you mentioned. She must be hot if you were willing to escort her up personally!"Zoey's eyes darted toward Serena, and she went still with shock.Serena was wearing loose, straight-cut trousers and a pastel-colored jacket. Her hair had been casually pulled back and secured with a claw clip, revealing her bare yet beautiful face. She hadn't put on any makeup today because of the upcoming photo shoot.Even without makeup, her skin was flawless and as smooth as double cream. She looked even more dazzling than most celebrities.Serena introduced herself to Zoe
Serena calmly defended Sunny and Harvey. "How will they brief me on the photoshoot if you refuse to let them come near me?""I'm looking out for your boundaries here. I don't want you feeling uncomfortable dealing with a bunch of men. Perhaps you'd be more at ease if it's just us women instead," Zoey suggested."I'm fine with Sunny and Harvey," Serena countered, her gaze steady and shrewd. "Besides, for a woman, you seem pretty at ease around them."In other words, why did Zoey think Serena would feel any different?Assuming a boisterous air, Zoey argued, "That's because I'm one of them. We're always together. I doubt you could ever beat me in that department, princess." She even sounded pleased with herself.Serena leveled an unreadable look at Zoey and said, "I think I can get along with them just fine. Thanks for your concern.""Forget it. I came to save you from an awkward situation, but I guess you don't need my help after all. I'll leave you be then!" With that, Zoey storme
As the photo shoot went on, Serena got to know Sunny and Harvey a little better. She was used to dealing with important clients at work. Holding a conversation with a bunch of youngsters like Sunny and Harvey was child's play to her.When Harvey demanded to follow her on Instagram, she gave in and took out her phone to approve his and Sunny's requests.Zoey leaned forward and mused, "Well, aren't we getting chummy with Ms. Serena?"Harvey chuckled. "Despite her cold and reserved exterior, Ms. Serena is actually pretty friendly. She's the whole package, so of course I have to follow her on Instagram.""It's been great hanging out with you guys, too," Serena said with a smile."You should come by more often, Ms. Serena! We could grab a meal together next time. There's a deli nearby that serves awesome roast beef sandwiches!" Harvey said excitedly.Sunny nodded as well. "We'd love to have you as a frequent visitor. You could be the poster child for our studio's aesthetics!"Zoey's
The person who requested to follow Serena sent her a private message, saying, "I am the valiant knight sent to protect you. For your safety, please approve my request."Serena thought it was a prank and ignored it. However, seconds later, a second message came through, saying, "You dare ignore your knight in shining armor, Ms. Judd?"As it turned out, "Valiant Knight" was none other than Wilson himself. Rendered speechless, Serena hesitated for a heartbeat before approving his follower request. She then texted him, "Mr. Quade, what in the world are you doing?"Valiant Knight replied, "You think I'm scary in real life, so I figured you'd be more willing to talk to me if I used this account. You can always pretend I'm someone else until you get over your fear of me.""I'm not stupid, Mr. Quade. I know it's you despite what your handle suggests," Serena countered dryly."Don't you think my profile picture makes me seem less intimidating?" Valiant Knight asked.He was right. The pict
Sitting on the hospital corridor bench, Serena Judd trembled uncontrollably.She had just encountered a creep.She had worked overtime until midnight. Exhausted, she dragged her weary body back to her rented apartment. Just as she was about to take out her keys, someone suddenly covered her mouth and nose from behind.Serena struggled with everything she had, but her attacker dragged her toward the stairwell.A warm, repulsive breath brushed against her ear. "You smell amazing."That revolting voice coiled around her like a venomous snake, suffocating her with every word.In sheer terror, Serena had thrown herself backward, dragging the man down the stairs with her.She was lucky—only a few scrapes and bruises.However, the creep wasn't so fortunate. He cracked his head on the way down and lay motionless long enough for her to escape.After giving her statement at the police station, Serena went to the hospital herself. She kept glancing at her phone, which displayed the messa
The person who requested to follow Serena sent her a private message, saying, "I am the valiant knight sent to protect you. For your safety, please approve my request."Serena thought it was a prank and ignored it. However, seconds later, a second message came through, saying, "You dare ignore your knight in shining armor, Ms. Judd?"As it turned out, "Valiant Knight" was none other than Wilson himself. Rendered speechless, Serena hesitated for a heartbeat before approving his follower request. She then texted him, "Mr. Quade, what in the world are you doing?"Valiant Knight replied, "You think I'm scary in real life, so I figured you'd be more willing to talk to me if I used this account. You can always pretend I'm someone else until you get over your fear of me.""I'm not stupid, Mr. Quade. I know it's you despite what your handle suggests," Serena countered dryly."Don't you think my profile picture makes me seem less intimidating?" Valiant Knight asked.He was right. The pict
As the photo shoot went on, Serena got to know Sunny and Harvey a little better. She was used to dealing with important clients at work. Holding a conversation with a bunch of youngsters like Sunny and Harvey was child's play to her.When Harvey demanded to follow her on Instagram, she gave in and took out her phone to approve his and Sunny's requests.Zoey leaned forward and mused, "Well, aren't we getting chummy with Ms. Serena?"Harvey chuckled. "Despite her cold and reserved exterior, Ms. Serena is actually pretty friendly. She's the whole package, so of course I have to follow her on Instagram.""It's been great hanging out with you guys, too," Serena said with a smile."You should come by more often, Ms. Serena! We could grab a meal together next time. There's a deli nearby that serves awesome roast beef sandwiches!" Harvey said excitedly.Sunny nodded as well. "We'd love to have you as a frequent visitor. You could be the poster child for our studio's aesthetics!"Zoey's
Serena calmly defended Sunny and Harvey. "How will they brief me on the photoshoot if you refuse to let them come near me?""I'm looking out for your boundaries here. I don't want you feeling uncomfortable dealing with a bunch of men. Perhaps you'd be more at ease if it's just us women instead," Zoey suggested."I'm fine with Sunny and Harvey," Serena countered, her gaze steady and shrewd. "Besides, for a woman, you seem pretty at ease around them."In other words, why did Zoey think Serena would feel any different?Assuming a boisterous air, Zoey argued, "That's because I'm one of them. We're always together. I doubt you could ever beat me in that department, princess." She even sounded pleased with herself.Serena leveled an unreadable look at Zoey and said, "I think I can get along with them just fine. Thanks for your concern.""Forget it. I came to save you from an awkward situation, but I guess you don't need my help after all. I'll leave you be then!" With that, Zoey storme
The studio was close to being a first-rate operation.The front desk was manned by a pair of youngsters—a man and a woman. Damian introduced them to Serena, "These are my business partners.""Your business partners seem pretty well-off," Serena observed."They are," Damian replied.Upon seeing Damian, the young woman at the front desk hurried forward. "Took you forever to come back up, Damian! Let me take a look at this model you mentioned. She must be hot if you were willing to escort her up personally!"Zoey's eyes darted toward Serena, and she went still with shock.Serena was wearing loose, straight-cut trousers and a pastel-colored jacket. Her hair had been casually pulled back and secured with a claw clip, revealing her bare yet beautiful face. She hadn't put on any makeup today because of the upcoming photo shoot.Even without makeup, her skin was flawless and as smooth as double cream. She looked even more dazzling than most celebrities.Serena introduced herself to Zoe
Serena sheepishly pocketed her phone and said, "How much do I owe you for the flowers, Mr. Quade? I'll transfer you the money.""Ms. Judd, may I know why you're speaking to the cactus beside you?" Wilson asked with wry humor.She pursed her lips and slowly lifted her gaze to Wilson. She wished she could admire his finely chiseled features and the flawless planes of his face, but she only felt disgusted by them. Memories from the other night rose in her mind, and she knew at once that those events had gotten to her more than she'd let on.When Wilson saw the blood drain from Serena's face, his heart tightened. He stepped back and said, "You should get going if you've got someplace to go."Relief rushed through Serena as she said, "Goodbye, Mr. Quade."She hurried out of the shop after that.Desiree watched as Serena scurried away and raised a brow. "What's up with your assistant today? She seemed skittish. Did something spook her?""Isn't it obvious? I spooked her," Wilson pointe
Serena could tell how happy Damian sounded over the phone.After she hung up, she got a text from Willow informing her that she wouldn't be getting home early on account of her night shift.Serena reassured Willow she'd be fine going one night without her company. To prove it, she snapped a photo of herself with the movie playing in the background and sent it to Willow.Willow replied, "Get some sleep. We'll head over to Dr. Morris' tomorrow.""It's your day off the day after tomorrow. Shall we see her then?" Serena suggested."Sure." Having gotten Serena's reply, Willow cut a withering look at the man beside her and asked, "There, happy now?"Wilson was seated in the chair beside Willow's desk. He had one ankle propped up on his knee, the portrait of elegant nonchalance. He stared at the photo on Willow's phone and drew his gaze away after a few seconds."Yeah," he said with an approving nod, then rose to his feet. "Thanks for looking out for Serena for me the last few days. I
Justin's eyes widened by a fraction, but he quickly hid his shock. He snorted and asked, "What does that have to do with me?"Candice was frantic. "It's your child, Justin! Did you forget what happened a month ago? That night, we—""Shut up! You slithered into my bed that night and forced yourself on me while I was drunk, and now, you want to hold me accountable? Don't be stupid!" The mention of that night from a month ago left a bad taste in Justin's mouth.He wasn't so foolish. He had been so drunk that night that he was close to passing out on his bed. Candice had entered his room after that and climbed into bed with him on purpose!Candice froze. She didn't think Justin would be so heartless.She prided herself on knowing him like the back of her hand; he might seem cold and indifferent, but he was actually gullible and prone to being emotionally manipulated. She only needed to cry to make him side with her.More importantly, Justin wanted a kid. Candice had overheard him tel
"What's got you so worked up?" Mollie asked."I've been calling Justin, but he refuses to pick up! A mother and son shouldn't hold grudges like this. What is he trying to prove with this attitude? He's just like your father, that heartless man…" Jenna complained.Mollie sighed. "He's been in a bad mood because of Serena. Maybe just give him some space.""Enough nonsense. Call him right now," Jenna demanded.Left with no choice, she pulled out her phone and dialed Justin's number. He finally picked up. "Justin, where are you? Mom's been really worried.""I'm fine. I'm heading back to Bay Villa now," Justin replied.Jenna snatched the phone. "Justin, you've been acting more and more out of line. All because of Serena? You're the CEO of Farrow Corporation. Look at yourself right now!"His voice was weary. "If you just called to lecture me, save it for another day.""I'm telling you, the best way to get over a relationship is to start a new one," Jenna said."What are you getting
Two hours later, Justin finally told her to stop. After leaving a tip, he got up to leave. Damian stood up as well, ready to go."What's the rush, handsome?" The hostess beside him suddenly grabbed his arm.Damian turned his head and met her flirtatious gaze. She pressed her chest against his arm. "You're still a virgin, aren't you? I like you. If you want, I'll stay with you for free tonight. Don't worry, I know plenty of tricks. I guarantee your first time will feel amazing…"Damian's expression didn't change. "No thanks. I'm leaving.""Don't be shy. Have a think about it," the hostess said again."Did you not understand me?" Damian turned, his once clear, gentle eyes now cold. The shift in his demeanor was stark, an intimidating presence replacing his earlier restraint.The hostess instinctively took a step back. "What…""Let go." Damian brushed off her hand and walked out.Justin was slightly tipsy. As they reached the door, he stumbled, nearly falling.A woman caught hi