Just as Serena was about to leave, Wilson pushed the door open and walked in. He was dressed in a custom-tailored black suit without a tie, and the perfectly fitted trousers accentuated his long legs. His demeanor was cool and composed, yet there was a hint of casual indifference in his stride."Mr. Quade," Serena greeted him with a warm smile. "I brought you your breakfast."Wilson approached the desk and glanced at the neatly packaged mushroom soup on it. He clicked his tongue. He remarked dryly, "Ms. Judd, your soup looks so exquisite—exactly like the one from the breakfast shop downstairs. Funny, the packaging even has the same logo."Serena froze for a moment before explaining, "I did make soup for you, but there was an accident this morning, and it spilled everywhere. I had no choice but to buy some. Don't worry—I'll make it for you tomorrow."Wilson's gaze softened slightly. "Are you okay?""Huh?" Serena blinked. Then, it hit her that he was asking about her. "I'm fine. The
Serena's expression almost faltered. Once they were out of earshot, she could not help but whisper, "Mr. Quade, why didn't you deny it?"Wilson raised a brow and replied, "Did you see how much that young woman idolized the idea of a perfect love story? How could I crush her dream like that?""Well, in the future… maybe don't make jokes like that again," she said with a sigh.Wilson's faint smile faded slightly at that. "Alright."Serena kept her head lowered, completely missing the subtle drop in his mood.Afterward, they headed to the doctor's office, where she underwent a thorough examination. Just as she had expected, everything was fine. Then, they visited a few more departments, but the results were the same—nothing wrong.When Serena came out, she found Wilson leaning against the wall, flipping through her medical reports one by one. His slightly tousled hair fell over his forehead, adding a trace of melancholy to his otherwise striking features.Several passersby could no
"You, of course!" Serena replied without hesitation. Wilson grinned. "Really? Judging by the way you were zoning out in the car earlier, I thought you were worried I'd beaten Justin too badly.""I wasn't worried about him," she said, turning her face toward the window. "I was just thinking about something."Her mind drifted to the past, back to her time with Justin. Once, during a client dinner, a man tried to take advantage of her by pressuring her to drink. When she refused, he lost his temper, poured a drink over her head, and berated her in front of everyone.Justin had been there. He demanded an apology—but not from the client. Instead, he made her apologize to the man. She swallowed her pride and muttered a soft "I'm sorry" while holding back tears of humiliation.Later, she brought it up when they were alone, hoping for some sympathy, but Justin had brushed it off. "I was right there. He wouldn't have actually done anything. Serena, you're usually so reasonable—this client
Would Justin have sought out Serena if he hadn't been drunk?Zane stole a glance at the rearview mirror, watching Justin's shifting expressions. One moment, he was scowling; the next, grinning. It was unsettling. "Zane, didn't I tell you to find a new assistant? Still no progress?""Mr. Farrow, I've shortlisted a few suitable candidates, but you haven't had time to interview them yourself," Zane replied."Today, then. Have them come over immediately." Justin reclined in the backseat of the car, his legs crossed comfortably. He could always find a replacement for Serena. When they arrived at Farrow Corporation, Justin wasted no time arranging the interviews. Soon, the candidates gathered in his office. After all, the opportunity to work at such a prestigious company was rare. They filed into his office, lining up nervously. Two men and three women, all visibly anxious, were surprised that Justin himself was conducting the interviews. "Let's begin with introductions. One minu
Two wristwatches rested on the desk. Their intricate designs gleamed under the light, radiating a cool metallic charm that spoke of luxury.Wilson glanced at them indifferently and quipped, "Thanks, but what's the deal with gifting me a pair of watches? Are you mocking me for being single?"Jacob chuckled. "The women's watch? That's for you to give to Serena.""She won't accept it," Wilson said."Well, that's your problem." Jacob smiled before continuing, "It's a special day today. Want to grab a drink with me tonight?"Wilson picked up the watches and tucked them away. "What's so special about it? You know I don't celebrate birthdays.""Can't you make an exception for once?" Jacob clicked his tongue, though he wasn't surprised. After that incident, Wilson had sworn off acknowledging his birthday. A knock on the door interrupted them. Knuckles rapped against the wood, and after receiving permission, Serena stepped in. She nodded politely at Jacob. "Mr. Smith.""Why so formal?
During her years with the Farrows, the only elder who genuinely cared for Serena was Justin's grandmother, Beatrice Elordi. She had been in poor health for as long as Serena could remember. A few years ago, she moved into a nursing home surrounded by scenic views. Despite the distance, Beatrice never missed sending Serena a birthday gift each year. Serena stood still for a moment before ending the call.Wilson noticed her change in demeanor. "What's wrong?"Serena answered hesitantly, "Mr. Quade, something's come up. Can we take a rain check on dinner?" Beatrice's health had been declining steadily over the past two years. Serena feared this might be her last chance to see her. She couldn't bear the thought of living with that regret. But today was Wilson's birthday too, a day that only came once a year.Wilson's calm voice interrupted her thoughts. "It's alright. Where do you need to go? I'll drive you."Serena was surprised. "You're not mad?"He gripped the steering wheel
"Mrs. Farrow Senior. Mrs. Farrow."Jenna shot Serena a withering glare but offered only a curt nod in response. In stark contrast, Beatrice's face lit up with delight. "Rina, my dear! Come here. Let me take a good look at you!"Serena walked over and was immediately pulled to sit by the bedside, Beatrice's hands clasping hers gently."It's been almost a year since I last saw you. You've lost weight, haven't you?" Beatrice turned to Jenna and instructed, "Tell Leyla to make some bagels and beef ribs for Rina. She needs to eat more and put on some weight."Jenna's expression soured, her lips twitching as though she wanted to object. But before she could speak, Beatrice coughed sharply, cutting her off. With a reluctant sigh, she stood and left the room.Serena gently patted Beatrice's back. "Mrs. Farrow Senior, why are you sick again?""Oh, it's nothing—just old age catching up with me. It's nothing to worry about. Seeing you here has already made me feel a hundred times better.
After Beatrice fell asleep, Serena and Justin left the room. As soon as the door closed, Serena pulled her hand free from Justin's grasp without hesitation.His gaze darkened. "What is it? Do I disgust you that much?""The act is over. Now that Mrs. Farrow Senior is asleep, there's no need to keep pretending," she said, turning to head downstairs."Where are you going?" Justin asked while following closely."Home," Serena replied curtly. "This late? You're really going back now?" Justin asked."That's none of your concern." Serena's steps were decisive.Downstairs, Leyla Watson stood holding a tray with bagels and beef ribs. Sitting on the couch with a Pomeranian in her lap, Jenna cast Serena a mocking glance. "These are for you. Mrs. Farrow Senior asked for them. Eat up.""No need, Mrs. Farrow. I already had dinner," Serena replied politely.Jenna scoffed. "Suit yourself. You think I want an ingrate to stay in my house?""If it weren't for Mrs. Farrow Senior, I wouldn't h
All Wilson got from Serena was a polite "Thank you.""Is that all?" Wilson asked, bewildered by the difference in treatment.Serena hesitated for a moment before offering, "I'll buy you a meal next time?"Wilson scoffed in disbelief. "So, Damian gets a pat on the head for being heartbroken by your suffering, and all I get is a 'thank you'?"She eyed him speechlessly. "Do you want me to give you a pat on the head, too?""Yes," Wilson answered boldly.Left without a choice, Serena reached up and rubbed his head. "There, are you happy now?"His face finally softened. "Yeah."Serena looked resigned. She had come to realize just how childish Wilson could be sometimes. As she ruffled his hair, she noticed how soft and silky it was and couldn't resist caressing it a little longer. But just as she was about to draw her hand back, Wilson's straight-backed figure leaned close to her and slumped forward until his head was resting in her lap.His eyes were closed as he muttered, "I'm sl
"Damn it!" Justin punched the wall beside him.Joseph stood in place, feeling awkward as he watched Justin's violent outburst. "Justin, shall I give you some space to calm down?""Go away," Justin bit out. "I don't want to see you or Arthur right now!"Joseph left wordlessly, unsure what to make of the fight earlier.…After being discharged from the hospital, Serena told the others she had to swing by the police precinct. Lauren offered immediately, "I can come with you.""It's alright, you don't have to," Serena replied.Wilson stepped forward. "I can go with her."Serena nodded. "Mr. Quade can come with me. You guys should probably head home."The others left, their expressions unreadable.Lauren muttered under her breath, "It's normal for them to want to spend time with one another, given it's the start of their relationship. Rina isn't the type to turn on her friends the moment she hooks up with a guy. As her friend, I shall respect her and wish her all the best…"After
Rapport had Joseph and Arthur fall into synchrony as they hoisted Justin out of the hospital room. Lauren laughed at the comical sight of the trio. "It's like watching a pantomime! I guess not even men are immune to theatrics. I'll go eavesdrop on them!"She made to go after the trio, but Willow held her back by the collar."Give them a little privacy to hash things out," Willow said before turning to look at Serena and Wilson. She couldn't help her curiosity as she asked mischievously, "So, what's going on between you and Serena, Wilson?"Wilson answered, "It's not up to me to explain."He eyed Serena meaningfully, his gaze dark and amused. Serena felt a little self-conscious as she said, "We'll talk about this later.""Sure." Wilson smiled as he offered, "I'll give you a ride home."…Joseph and Arthur dragged Justin into a stairwell. Shaking off their vise-like grip, Justin demanded, "I want an explanation right now!"Joseph stammered helplessly, "O-On what?""What do you t
Joseph rubbed the back of his head and said, "I don't think Serena wants to see you right now, Justin…"Justin's face darkened when he heard this. He was about to snap at Joseph and Lauren when the room door opened.Wilson leaned against the doorframe with one hand in his pocket, nonchalance coloring his handsome face as he eyed the trio bickering in the corridor. "Mind the noise."Justin nearly flew into a rage as he beheld Wilson. "Where's Serena?"A calm, collected voice rang out from the room. "Is something the matter?""Rina!" Lauren ducked under Wilson's outstretched arm and hurried into the room. "Rina, how are you feeling?""I'm fine. I got away with only minor wounds and abrasions, but I am pretty exhausted and ended up sleeping for longer than expected," Serena explained."How are you coping mentally?" Lauren pressed, her eyes wide with worry. Serena was already dealing with enough emotional baggage, to begin with, and the traumatic events of the last two days must hav
Without hesitation, Wilson cupped the back of Serena's head and kissed her back deeply. His kisses were careful and lingering at first, then slowly became passionate and demanding.With one hand holding Serena's head in place and the other gripping her slender waist, he practically hauled her upright and eased her into his lap. His body tightened as the soft curves of her body molded against the hard planes of his, and his system went into a frenzy.Weak as it was, his voice of reason compelled him to end the kiss before things went further. But Serena suddenly moaned in the back of her throat, the sound soft yet catalytic. Whatever trace of reason Wilson found vanished into thin air as he pinned her to the bed and deepened the kiss, his teeth grazing her lips hungrily. He pressed her close, willing all and any distance between them to melt away.The bed rattled slightly beneath them, and the air in the spacious hospital room grew too warm too quickly. The tension between Serena a
Serena put on a fresh change of clothes. In the car, she dozed off in Wilson's arms. She had gone a whole night without sleep, and the events of the last two days took a toll on her mental and physical strength.Serena slept deeply and woke up in the hospital room. The sharp scent of antiseptic filled her nose.She slowly opened her eyes when she heard a soft noise coming from her bedside and turned to find Wilson sitting there, peeling an apple. He paused and met her gaze."Mr. Quade…" Serena began.However, she was interrupted when Wilson clapped a warm hand over her forehead and caressed her skin. "You're not running a fever. That's good.""Didn't the nurse take my temperature earlier?" Serena asked."You knew about that?"She nodded. She had awoken a few minutes ago and was drifting in and out of sleep when the nurse attended to her. She'd felt the latter take her temperature.Wilson pointed out, "So, were you pretending to be asleep, then? You fooled me. I even heard you s
Just as Thomas was about to dunk Serena underwater again, a loud bang cut through the air, followed by Thomas' piercing scream. He clamped a hand over his right shoulder where crimson blood bloomed across his shirt.Serena looked up at the towering cliffside to see Wilson aiming his gun in Thomas' direction. She watched as Wilson shrugged off his jacket and dived into the lake. Behind him, several men took their positions on the cliff.Tears pricked Serena's eyes. She kicked Thomas away and swam toward Wilson with as much force as she could.Thomas snapped to his senses and immediately pushed forward to swim after Serena. However, his wounded shoulder hindered his swimming. "Stop! Come back right now, damn it!"Less than 50 yards separated her and Wilson, yet Serena felt as if they were worlds apart. After what felt like ages, a strong arm finally pulled her into a warm embrace. Wilson held her close and murmured, "I'm here now. You have nothing to be afraid of."Serena breathed i
Despair flashed in Mollie's eyes. Suddenly, someone gripped her wrist. She turned to see Serena staring at her evenly and whispering, "Head southwest."With that, Serena nudged her away before darting out of their hiding place and bolting in the opposite direction."Shit!" Thomas swore upon seeing Serena. He leaped down the hill and ran after her.The blood drained from Mollie's face. She clenched her jaw and ran southwest like Serena told her to. As she ran, tears streamed down her face, and she prayed that Serena would get away safely.…"Damn it! Stop running!" Thomas roared as he pursued Serena.Serena was barefoot and practically flying through the woods. She had always been strong, and her stamina was second to none when it came to running. However, biology became her biggest hurdle, and it didn't take long for Thomas to catch up to her.He pulled her back by her hair and flung her to the ground, using inertia to his advantage. She hit the forest floor and felt her head s
Mollie said weakly, "Go on without me, Serena. I'll only hold you back."Serena hauled Mollie to her feet and reassured her, "We must have shaken them off after running for so long. I can hear running water somewhere. Maybe we'll find a stream where we can clean your wounds."Mollie could tell Serena did not intend to leave her behind. Tears welled up in her eyes.Seeing this, Serena asked, "Why are you crying?""I just feel bad because… I was so mean to you, yet you're risking your life to save mine. I'm a terrible person!" Mollie sobbed."Don't say that about yourself. Compared to your mother and Justin, you were practically nice," Serena comforted her. Indeed, Mollie hadn't done anything terrible to Serena save for a few acerbic comments here and there.Mollie was speechless as she considered Serena's words. She then said, "You sure know what to say to make people feel better.""Come on." Serena looped her arm through Mollie's and gently but firmly guided her forward. Sure