After dinner, Nyla played with Mason for a while before asking Lydia to prepare him for bed. She stayed up in the living room, engrossed in a book, waiting for Damon to return.…Ruby went to the police station, only to be told she couldn't see Sullivan. She tried asking about the situation but couldn't gather any information.Frustrated and helpless, she returned home.That night, she tossed and turned, unable to find restful sleep.The following morning, she woke up feeling heavy and groggy.When Nyla saw her tired eyes and dark circles in the lab, she asked, "You didn't sleep well?""No," Ruby admitted."Because of Sullivan?" Nyla pressed.Ruby hesitated before nodding. "I went to see him last night, but I couldn't. I don't even know what's going on."After a brief pause, Nyla said, "Ruby, have you considered that you might be... a bit too concerned about him?""Nyla, he's saved me twice. How can I not care?" Ruby replied firmly."I get it. But this situation is out of y
Damon pulled Nyla into his arms, his expression amused. "Thank you for the compliment."Looking at his serious face, Nyla couldn't help but laugh.As they walked into the living room, Mason came running toward them on his little legs. In his excitement, he stumbled just before reaching Nyla and fell forward into her arms.She quickly caught him, helping him stand upright before gently chiding, "Buddy, slow down next time, or you'll hurt yourself."Mason held out a piece of chocolate, his face glowing with pride. "Mommy, I got a gold star at kindergarten today. This is the chocolate my teacher gave me as a reward. I saved it for you!"He remembered how much his mother loved sweets and wanted to share it with her.Nyla's heart softened as she looked into his expectant eyes. She took the chocolate from his hand, noticing it had melted slightly in the wrapper after being held for so long."Thank you, Buddy. Why did your teacher reward you with a gold star today?" she asked.Mason s
Mason nodded. "Okay.""Good. When you receive a gift, you should feel happy, not worried. Now, go wash up for dinner," Nyla encouraged with a smile."Okay!" Mason chirped.…After dinner, Damon retreated to his study to work, only returning to the bedroom late at night.Seeing that Nyla was still awake, he frowned. "Didn't I tell you not to wait up for me? Staying up late isn't good for you.""I wasn't waiting for you tonight. I just couldn't sleep," Nyla admitted."Why? Did something happen?" Damon asked.She considered telling him about Mason but decided against it.Shaking her head, she replied, "It's nothing, really."Damon had been working hard lately, and she didn't want to distract him with other concerns.Damon studied her, his expression knowing. "Nyla, your face gives you away. If you don't talk about it, you're not going to fall asleep tonight, are you?"He smiled, despite his exhaustion. He made time for Nyla because, while work was important, so were she and Ma
Ruby's face paled as she gripped the hem of her shirt. "Nyla, I'm not trying to go against Prospectus Technology. I just want to hire a lawyer and see if there's anything I can do to help him.""That's your business," Nyla replied coldly. "You don't need to discuss it with me. It's late—let's leave it at that."After ending the call, Nyla took a deep breath, trying to suppress her anger.To be fair, Ruby hadn't done anything wrong. After all, Sullivan had saved her twice, so it made sense that she'd want to help him.However, Ruby should have handled this privately, finding a lawyer on her own instead of asking Nyla for assistance.When Damon came out of the bathroom, towel-drying his hair, he noticed the irritation on Nyla's face and raised a brow. "Who upset you?""No one," she muttered.After a brief hesitation, she asked, "By the way, is Sullivan really going to be locked up for life?"Damon paused mid-motion, his tone tinged with jealousy. "Nyla, why are you so concerned a
Sullivan snickered. "I don't need your help. Since you don't care about me, don't come here again. I don't want to see you."He turned away without a second glance at Ruby.Ruby was silent for a moment. Then, she said in a low voice, "If you don't want to see me, I won't come again. If you need anything, just have the lawyer pass on the message."She added, "Sullivan, you saved me twice, and I'm grateful for that. Everything I said today was for your sake. It has nothing to do with anyone else."Sullivan remained motionless, staring at the white wall as though it held some deep fascination.With a sigh, Ruby turned and walked away.It was only as her figure disappeared through the door that Sullivan glanced in her direction.The lawyer, Paul Vernon, addressed him, "Mr. Heseltine, if you don't cooperate, there's not much I can do for you."Sullivan looked at Paul, his tone indifferent. "I'll cooperate, but you need to do one thing for me."Paul nodded. "As long as it's within l
Gabriel hung up without hesitation.Tom glared at the phone. If he didn't still need Gabriel, he wouldn't tolerate this kind of attitude from anyone!Suppressing his frustration with a deep breath, he immediately instructed his assistant to arrange a meeting with the Sumner Group's largest supplier.Over the past two weeks, all his attempts to schedule a meeting had been flatly rejected. His patience was wearing thin.As expected, it didn't take long for his assistant to call back with an update. "Mr. Genge, Mr. Basham still refuses to meet with you."Tom smirked. "Since he's so determined to ignore my generosity, it seems he'd rather swallow the bitter pill. Send him those photos—him and his mistress, all wrapped up nicely."The assistant hesitated. "Mr. Genge, if we take this route, it will completely ruin your relationship with Mr. Basham.""I gave him a chance, and he chose to throw it away. If he wants war, we'll give him war," Tom replied."Understood, I'll take care of i
Karter glowered, not expecting Tom to have discovered that. He took a deep breath before asking coldly, "What's your problem with the Sumner Group?"Tom simply replied, "Because I'm tired of always being in someone else's shadow."Karter remained silent, scowling.Tom smiled. "You wouldn't want your wife to keep controlling you, would you? Help me, and I can help you seize control."Although Karter was the CEO of the Basham Group, his wife held the shares. That was why he had gotten rid of his mistresses and begged her for forgiveness all these years after she found out about his affairs.Now that his current mistress was pregnant and he intended for her to keep the child, it was clear that he was planning to seize the shares.Tom watched Karter as if weighing his options, showing no rush for a response.Karter was silent for a long moment.Finally, he said, "Fine. I'll do it. But if you cross me, I'll make sure you regret it.""Pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Basham," T
It was Jayden's birthday tonight, and Brandon had only planned to drop off a gift and leave.However, as soon as he had entered the private room, Jayden had pulled Michelle along to apologize to him.After much persuasion, Brandon had reluctantly agreed to stay for the celebration. The group had drunk quite a bit, and someone had suggested they play a game.After losing a round, Brandon had chosen "Dare". The group had urged him to kiss Michelle through a tissue. He had been about to refuse when Valarie stormed in, her face dark with displeasure.…Valarie's gaze was cold and filled with disappointment. "Brandon, I told you before that I wouldn't interfere with your friendships, but clearly, you've completely betrayed my trust."If Brandon truly cared about her, he wouldn't keep hanging around Michelle with such unclear boundaries. His so-called friends wouldn't dare make such bold jokes at her expense."Valarie, it's just a game. I've already explained it to you. Do you really
"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