"Nyla, don't feel like it's a bother. It's what I should do, and I'm really glad you called me tonight," Damon replied.At the very least, he sensed that Nyla needed him.A flicker of emotion crossed Nyla's face before she lowered her head and said, "I'm a bit tired, so I'll head to my room now. You should get some rest too.""Alright," Damon answered.Without another glance at him, Nyla pushed open the door to her room. Once it was shut behind her, she exhaled softly, finally feeling a bit relieved.She placed a hand over her chest, feeling her heartbeat quicken, and couldn't help but smile wryly. Then, she grabbed her clothes and went to the bathroom for a shower.As Nyla disappeared behind the door, Damon's expression turned cold. He quickly walked downstairs and headed straight for his study.Spencer acted swiftly, taking less than an hour to identify the mysterious caller."Mr. Sumner, the person is Howard Rowley, 29 years old. He works as a security guard at Ms. Kinsey's
"Yeah, it's a security guard from your apartment complex. But I think there's more to it," Damon replied.A security guard?Nyla frowned, trying to recall any interactions, but she couldn't remember ever talking to the security guards at her complex. Besides, a guard wouldn't say things like "Welcome back" to her.Noticing her frown, Damon said calmly, "Don't worry about it. I'll handle it. For now, I'll have the driver take Buddy to and from school, and you can commute with me. That way, I can ensure your safety."Thinking about the messages from last night, Nyla felt that chill creep up her spine again. She nodded. "Okay, I'll listen to you."After finishing breakfast, the driver took them to the office. On the way, Damon asked if they needed to keep their relationship a secret.Nyla thought for a moment and replied, "No need. It's not something we can hide for long anyway, so let's just go with the flow."A spark lit up in Damon's eyes as he answered, "Alright."When the car
Ruby shook her head, lowering it in guilt. "Nyla, I'm sorry. I didn't sleep well last night... I promise I won't make any mistakes this afternoon."Seeing Ruby's exhaustion and the dark circles under her eyes, Nyla realized she truly hadn't rested well, so she didn't scold her further. "Alright, go get some lunch and take a good rest.""Okay, thank you. I'll finish organizing the documents and then head out," Ruby replied.Nyla didn't say anything more and left the office, heading to the top floor to find Damon.Not long after Nyla left, Ruby's phone started ringing. Seeing the number flashing on the screen, her face went pale, and she didn't pick up.The calls kept coming like an ominous reminder.She grabbed her phone, intending to block the number, but hesitated at the last moment.Very soon, her phone rang again. She took a deep breath and answered, "I sent you all the money I had last night. I don't have any left!""Ruby, your brother has been taken by the debt collectors.
Sullivan smiled. "I've been here for a little while. You were on the phone, so I didn't want to interrupt.""Oh," Ruby replied, her expression clouding.If Sullivan had been there for a while, he must have overheard her call.Any positive impression she had of him faded immediately—someone who eavesdropped on others' conversations couldn't be trusted.Noticing her displeasure, Sullivan quickly added, "I apologize. I really didn't mean to listen in. That's why I stayed outside the door. But your voice was loud enough that people in the next lab could probably hear you too."Ruby frowned. "Did you need something? If not, I'll be heading to lunch.""I was just dropping off some documents for Nyla. Since she's not here, could you please hold onto them and give them to her this afternoon?" Sullivan asked."Sure," Ruby answered.After placing the documents in her drawer, she was about to head to the cafeteria. When she reached the door, though, she noticed Sullivan was still there, s
After Damon recovered his memories, he replayed everything about Nyla in his mind countless times, remembering it all clearly.The two ate in silence, the only sound in the office being the clinking of cutlery and dishes.While eating, Nyla stole glances at Damon.His movements were graceful, and she found herself drawn to him without realizing it. He was also undeniably handsome, which explained why so many women chased after him.Noticing Nyla's gaze, Damon looked up at her.Their eyes met, and Nyla felt a pang of embarrassment, like she'd been caught red-handed.She quickly averted her gaze and said awkwardly, "Heh… these shrimp are pretty good…""If you like them, I'll have Spencer order them again tomorrow. Is there anything else you'd like?" Damon asked.Nyla glanced at him, but when she met his deep, dark eyes, she quickly looked away again. "No, just the shrimp is fine. You don't have to order only what I like. Get some things you like, too," she replied.Damon looke
Ruby shook her head and replied, "I'm fine, Nyla. Just didn't sleep well. What did you want to discuss?"There was no way a lack of sleep could cause such swelling, but Nyla didn't push. She understood that everyone had things they preferred to keep to themselves."I'm planning to change the catalyst for the experiment. Can you see if we can try these options this afternoon?" Nyla proposed, handing Ruby a piece of paper with the catalysts she had in mind.Ruby glanced over it and picked out two options. "I think these two are worth trying. I've tested the others before, and they didn't work well—the reaction time was too long."Nyla nodded. "Alright, let's go with your suggestions."After finalizing the plans, Nyla was about to return to her desk when she added quietly, "If you're facing any difficulties, you can talk to me. Don't let it affect your work."Ruby blinked, clenching her hands. "I understand."Whether because of Nyla's words or not, Ruby seemed more focused that aft
Margaret's tone was matter-of-fact, as if Ruby were an object to be discarded at will. She didn't even consider whether Ruby would agree.As far as she was concerned, as long as Hansel could be saved, Ruby's life was expendable. After all, Hansel was the lifeline of the Jenners. If they lost their son, she and her husband wouldn't be able to go on.Ruby let out a short, bitter laugh, which soon escalated into a loud, almost hysterical one."What are you laughing at? Are you crazy?" Margaret's voice was sharp, filled with anger.When Ruby finally stopped laughing, she spoke in a low, steady voice. "Do you know why I took your call?""Why?" Margaret asked."Because I wanted to see just how disgusting the things you'd say could be. You didn't disappoint me," Ruby replied.Her voice, rough and hoarse from laughing so hard, was unsettlingly calm. It gave Margaret a sinking feeling."Ruby, what are you planning to do?" Margaret asked, unease creeping into her tone.Ruby smiled and s
Sullivan raised an eyebrow. "I'm not escorting you. This just happens to be my way home too. I can't just avoid this road because you're on it, right?"Ruby frowned but couldn't argue with his logic. After a few moments of silence, she turned and walked off quickly.Sullivan stayed about four to five meters behind.This annoyed Ruby, so she quickened her pace, hoping to shake him off. No matter how fast she walked, he kept his distance until she entered her apartment building. Only then did he stop following.Back in her apartment, she slipped off her shoes and walked to the couch, feeling exhausted.Her phone buzzed. It was a Messenger message from Nyla.Nyla: [Hey, I noticed you didn't seem well today. If there's anything troubling you, don't hesitate to talk to me. I'll help you figure things out. Stay strong!]Ruby stared at the message for a moment before simply replying: [Okay.]At a popular seafood restaurant in Saintornia…Nyla looked at Ruby's brief response and felt
"That's more like it," Valarie chirped.Nyla couldn't help but say, "Valarie, stop bullying Brandon all the time."Brandon turned to her and sighed dramatically. "Aunt Nyla, since you mentioned it, I have to say something. You have no idea what I've been through these past six months, I— Ouch!"Before he could finish, Valarie pinched his waist. "What was that? Tell me, Brandon. Have you been unhappy these past six months?""N-No... I've been very happy..." Brandon winced."Have I bullied you then?" Valarie pressed."No..." Brandon murmured.Valarie huffed. "If not, then keep your mouth shut, or Nyla will really think I mistreat you." Brandon gave her a pitiful look, lowering his head like a scolded puppy.Before they married, Valarie had been gentle and beautiful in his eyes. But after marriage, he realized how wrong he had been.Gentle and beautiful? All an illusion.If he stayed out drinking and came home late, he'd have to choose between sleeping on the couch or outside.
Taking Mia to work was exhausting, but every time she smiled at Damon, it made everything worth it."She'll be fine. Didn't you just say she loves us both equally? She'll cry for a bit, but if you stop taking her to the office, she'll get used to being at home," Nyla reasoned.Seeing Nyla's determination, Damon finally relented. "Alright, we'll try it tomorrow. But if she cries too much, you'll have to take her to the office.""Deal!" Nyla said....After getting ready for work the next morning, Damon kissed Mia on the cheek and headed for the door.As soon as he changed his shoes at the entrance, she reached her little arms toward him, asking to be held. She had grown so accustomed to going to the office with him every day that it had become a reflex.Damon glanced at Nyla. "Nyla, maybe today we should—"Nyla interrupted, "Nope. You go to work. And if you're free for lunch, don't bother coming home. If you need to work late, no rush to come back either."Damon chuckled. "You'
"Brandon, from now on, I'm entrusting Valarie to you," Jonathan said. "She's been spoiled by us and can be a little willful at times. I hope you'll be patient with her in your marriage, and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together."Brandon held Valarie's hand tightly, his expression solemn. "Dad, don't worry. I'll cherish her with all my heart."Jonathan nodded, stepping down from the stage. He discreetly wiped away his tears.After exchanging vows and rings, Valarie and Brandon sealed their love with a kiss, surrounded by cheers and applause.…On the way home from the wedding, Nyla glanced at Damon. "I saw Mr. Weir wipe his tears so many times today. When Bunny gets married, you'll definitely be just like him, sneaking off somewhere to cry."Damon's grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, his gaze sharpening. "No one will ever be good enough for my daughter. If she never gets married, we'll take care of her for the rest of our lives."Nyla raised an eyebrow and
"Of course! When's the wedding?" Nyla asked.Valarie shook her head. "We haven't decided yet. He'll come to my house in a few days to discuss it with my parents."Nyla raised an eyebrow. "You're about to get really busy. Planning a wedding alone will take a lot of work.""Yeah, I'm already getting a headache just thinking about it," Valarie replied....For the next few months, Valarie was completely consumed by wedding preparations and work, barely having time to catch her breath.The wedding was set for August 8th, leaving them with less than six months to finalize everything.Valarie even traveled abroad several times to meet with designers and ensure her wedding dress was exactly what she wanted.Beyond the dress, she and Brandon spent hours discussing every detail—from the venue to the wedding favors and bouquet choices....After months of nonstop planning, the big day finally arrived.Valarie was already up, getting her hair and makeup done at 2:00 a.m.By the time N
Valarie looked up and saw the approaching glow.When the figure finally stopped in front of her, she realized it was Brandon.Frowning, she asked, "Where did you go? I waited so long for you. And what are you hiding behind your back?"Brandon flipped his phone face-down on the table, revealing the flowers he had hidden. Then he dropped to one knee."Valarie, I had planned a perfect proposal for you, but when you asked earlier about the meaning of wearing a wedding dress, I knew I couldn't wait any longer."Before I met you, my life revolved solely around work. I never paused for anyone—I never cared whether the sun was rising or setting, or if the moon was full or waning. But everything changed after I met you."I began cherishing the thought of greeting you every morning, sharing meals with you, and standing by your side for life."Valarie, I want every morning to begin with us waking up together, and every night to end with us holding each other as we fall asleep."Finally, B
Of course, every time they visited Valarie's home, Phoebe would subtly—or sometimes not so subtly—hint that they should get married.Brandon had always assumed Valarie wasn't interested in marriage since she never responded to those hints. He hadn't considered proposing.But today, seeing her so excited about picking out baby clothes made him start to imagine a future with her—building a family, raising a child.That thought filled his heart with warmth.After more than three hours of shopping, they finally left the mall, their arms full of bags.Once they loaded everything into the car, Valarie turned to Brandon. "I'm starving. Let's grab something to eat."Brandon nodded. "Sure. What are you in the mood for?""I'm not picky. Is there anything good around here? I don't feel like going too far," she replied.Brandon paused, then said, "There's a place with ethnic cuisine nearby. I went there once for a business meeting—it was pretty authentic. Want to give it a try?""Sounds g
Nyla was silent for a moment before nodding. "Alright. If you ever need Damon to help figure out Brandon's thoughts, just let me know.""I will. Don't worry about us, though. You just gave birth. Your main priority should be resting," Valarie said."Okay," Nyla replied.Valarie lingered in the bedroom for a while, but when she saw Nyla looking tired, she stood up and left.Downstairs, only Brandon was in the living room.Valarie walked over to him and asked, "Where's Damon?""He had something to take care of for work, so he went to the study. How's Aunt Nyla?" Brandon asked."She seems to be doing well, and the baby is adorable. Oh, right, I forgot to ask what the baby's name is. I only know her nickname is Bunny," Valarie said.Just thinking about Mia Sumner's cute little face made Valarie smile. She was already looking forward to the day the baby would call her godmother.A flicker of something crossed Brandon's eyes. "You really like kids, huh?""Of course! I've said befor
Once they were in the car, Nyla suddenly recalled Damon's phone call earlier. "By the way, what did Alexander want?"After a brief pause, Damon glanced at her. "He said Ms. Kinsey left you an inheritance and asked when we'd be able to go to Meristate to take care of it."Nyla pressed her lips together before replying, "Call him later and tell him to donate it or keep it for himself. I don't want it.""Alright," Damon replied.When they arrived home, Damon helped Nyla settle onto the couch, placing a pillow behind her back for support. Then, he said seriously, "Nyla, you've been through enough. Let's not have any more kids after this."During her first pregnancy with Mason, Damon hadn't been around, so he hadn't realized how difficult it was for her.Now, experiencing this pregnancy with her, every checkup and blood draw made his heart ache.Once Nyla gave birth, he planned to get a vasectomy. Two kids were enough for them.Nyla shot him a look. "This wasn't exactly planned, was
More than half an hour later, Nyla finally stirred from her nap.When she opened her eyes, she found Damon sitting by her bed, watching her. She froze for a moment, caught off guard.Rubbing her eyes, she realized he was still there and confirmed she wasn't dreaming.She slowly sat up, her voice still heavy with sleep. "Why are you here? Shouldn't you be in your study working?""I missed you, so I came to see you," Damon replied.Nyla narrowed her eyes. "You definitely have something to say if you're here all of a sudden."Damon chuckled, a little helpless. "I guess I can't fool you.""Of course not. I know you too well. Ever since I got pregnant, you've never come to see me like this in the afternoon," Nyla said."Alright. Go freshen up first, and I'll wait for you downstairs," Damon suggested."Okay," Nyla replied.After washing up, she went downstairs and sat beside Damon. "Alright, tell me. What's going on? You're acting all mysterious."Damon hesitated for a moment befo