"I don't need you to tell me what I should or shouldn't do," Damon said coldly, plunging the office into silence.The tension between him and Clark was palpable as they stared each other down, neither willing to back off.Sensing the intensity of the situation, Spencer quickly intervened, "Mr. Clark, Mr. Damon has been dealing with the photo situation since this morning. Maybe you should head back for now."Clark turned to Spencer, his tone icy. "Mr. Hogg, you've been with my uncle for a few years now. I hope you can talk some sense into him, remind him not to—""Clark!" Damon's voice cut through sharply, his eyes filled with a storm of anger. "Say one more word, and you can forget about staying as the Sumner Group's CEO."Clark's hands clenched tightly at his sides, feeling both humiliated and frustrated. He knew Damon had the power to oust him from his position.He glared at Damon, enunciating each word, "I hope you know what you're doing, Uncle Damon."With that, he turned an
When Clark saw Nyla's eyelashes flutter, his eyes flashed with satisfaction.Nyla bit her lip and said coldly, "I need to go to work. Can you leave now?"Upon noticing her distant attitude, Clark's gaze darkened. He didn't want to push her too hard as it would only worsen their relationship."I'll drive you," he offered."No need."With that, Nyla pushed him out and closed the door behind him.…Upon arriving at the office, Nyla noticed her colleagues sneaking glances at her.She remained expressionless, assuming they had all seen the photo online.After placing her things at her desk, she was about to head to the lab when Sasha approached her, whispering, "Nyla, about that photo online... Is it true? Does Mr. Sumner really like you?"Immediately, everyone around them perked up their ears.Everyone knew about the incident where Damon protected Nyla during the lab explosion, risking his own safety. Now, with the photo circulating online, they couldn't help but speculate about
Kenneth stood in a hospital corridor, staring at the bill with worry. Hearing Lucia's voice, he replied seriously, "Within the next few days."He was completely out of money. With Mabel in police custody, his only option was to follow Lucia's plan to get the money for medical expenses."I'll be waiting for your good news then," Lucia said, hanging up with a smirk.Once Kenneth kidnapped Nyla, she would ensure both of them perished at the scene, leaving her free of worry.…In the lab.Nyla was preparing to continue her experiment when she received a message from Genevieve, asking her to come to her office.When she arrived, Genevieve greeted her with a smile. "Nyla, how was the business trip to Rontana with Mr. Sumner?"Nyla pursed her lips. "It was fine. Is there something you need?""Headquarters is very interested in the project you're working on. Since it's funded by Prospectus Technology, they've decided to have you work there for a while to avoid Mr. Sumner having to con
Once Nyla got home, she contacted Spencer, who instructed her to come to the CEO's office the next morning for fingerprint registration and access cards.After hanging up, Nyla felt anxious. Clark already suspected Damon of having ulterior motives toward her. Now that she was going to work at Prospectus Technology, there could be serious trouble if Clark found out.For now, though, she could only take it one step at a time and deal with it when it happened.…The next morning, Nyla got up, freshened up, and drove to Prospectus Technology.After parking her car, she went to the reception and mentioned she was there to see Spencer. Upon confirming her identity, the receptionist led her to the elevator. "Ms. Jayston, the CEO's office is on the top floor."Nyla nodded. "Thank you."She entered the elevator and pressed the button for the top floor.As it ascended, she noticed it was her first time at Prospectus Technology and had heard that all their elevators were scenic. Now, sh
Damon looked up at Spencer, his expression cool and detached. "Got it."Seeing Damon's indifferent reaction, Spencer felt he might be overdoing it by bringing this up. After reminding Damon about the 10:00 a.m. meeting, he turned and left.…At noon, Nyla took her meal card to the cafeteria.As soon as she walked in, she was stunned by the luxurious setup. It looked more like a five-star restaurant than a cafeteria.The food at each station was meticulously prepared and visually appealing. Moreover, the prices were incredibly low, almost the same as a university cafeteria.The cafeteria had three floors, offering a variety of cuisines.Nyla lined up at one of the food stations, collected her meal, and found a seat in a corner.Tasting the soup, she was surprised at how delicious it was, comparable to what she had tasted at five-star restaurants before.She had heard people online say that Prospectus Technology's cafeteria was like a five-star restaurant and thought it was an e
Nyla's steps faltered, and she glared at Clark. "What did you tell my dad?!"Before Clark could respond, Harrison shouted, "You're questioning Clark? How could you betray him with his uncle?!"Nyla's fingers trembled with rage. She couldn't believe Clark had the gall to twist the truth, and even more, she couldn't believe her father had fallen for it."Dad, do you really see me as that kind of person? You didn't even ask me, and you just believed Clark's side of the story, thinking I betrayed him?!" she questioned.Nyla took a deep breath, deciding not to hide Clark's infidelity any longer. "Do you know it was he who—""Nyla, your dad was so upset earlier that he almost fainted. The doctor said he can't take any more stress. Do you really want to push him to the brink?"Clark's loud voice drowned out Nyla's words.She clenched her hands at her sides, her hatred for Clark reaching a peak. "If you know my dad can't take stress, why did you come here and tell him nonsense?!"Clark
Instantly, a red handprint appeared on Clark's face. His gaze toward Nyla was chilling. "How dare you hit me?!"Nyla met his furious eyes and said slowly, "Why wouldn't I? You're the one who cheated, yet you have the audacity to slander me in front of my dad. Don't you deserve to be hit?"As soon as she finished speaking, Clark grabbed her chin and pushed her against the wall, his eyes filled with anger."Nyla, it's your fault for not listening to me. If you had obeyed, I wouldn't have had to go to your father," he claimed.Nyla sneered. "If you dare approach my dad again, I'll expose your affair.""If you're not afraid of aggravating his condition, go ahead," Clark dared herClark's nonchalant tone fueled Nyla's rage, her hands clenched at her sides. "Clark, how did you become so despicable?!"Clark leaned closer. He could see the disgust and anger in Nyla's eyes and tightened his grip on her chin."Nyla, I just want you back by my side and to stay away from my uncle. You're t
People were hiding in both the bedroom and by the door, indicating a premeditated attack.Nyla scrambled to her feet and ran toward the kitchen. Unfortunately, she only managed a few steps before someone grabbed her arm and slammed her against the wall."Who are you? Why are you— Mmph!"Before she could finish, one of her attackers pinned her down and pressed a cloth against her nose. A pungent smell filled her nostrils, and her vision began to blur.Soon, two masked men dragged a large suitcase out of Nyla's apartment.Since it was just past 8:00 p.m. and most people were home from work, there weren't many people around, so the men didn't attract much attention.They quickly reached the back gate of the building, where a nondescript van without a license plate was parked in the shadows.They loaded the suitcase into the trunk and drove off toward the outskirts of the city.…Spencer hurried into the CEO's office at Prospectus Technology with a document in hand."Mr. Sumner,
"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