At the restaurant, Laura laid out the completed dishes on the table."Come with me for a second, Avery," Laura called out to her daughter.Avery followed her mother and walked toward the bathroom."Did you and Elliot get into a fight?" Laura asked."Is it that obvious?" Avery responded, her face void of emotion.Perhaps it was because she had been disappointed so many times that she became numb to the feeling."It is. You look like a couple that's on the verge of divorce," said Laura. "The expression on your faces is exactly what your father and I looked like when we went to sign the divorce papers."Avery could not hold back a laugh."We didn't talk about the divorce. It's just… About having kids… We can't talk about it.""I see. Is he still not willing to have kids? Did he say why?"Avery shook her head and said, "He has depression. Every time I think about that, I tell myself not to dwell on things.""That poor thing." Laura sighed. "What's the point of having all of that
Elliot's legs had been recovering well, and he was able to move around more freely with a walking stick.He got out of bed and walked into the closet to pick out his outfit for the day.Most of his clothes were in dark shades and colors.His brows furrowed as he took in the gloominess of his closet.Elliot walked out of the closet after failing to pick out a suitable outfit, then gave Chad a call."Chad, I need a light-colored suit.""Of course, Sir. Are you looking for something casual or a formal suit?""Something casual.""Roger that. I'll get it ready right away," Chad said. "By the way, the jewelry designer you asked me to contact has finished the sketch you asked for. I've emailed it over to you. They can start working on it once you approve the sketch.""Alright," Elliot responded.He hung up, then entered his study and turned on the computer.The upcoming New Year's Eve was the first one that he was going to spend with Avery, and he wanted to give her something speci
Avery did not react.It was true that her relationship with Elliot was more boring than most.Just last week, they had spent the entire time at home.Elliot was either working in his study or reading a book in the living room.Avery, on the other hand, was either writing her thesis or reading in the living room with him.Elliot's book was in a foreign language that Avery did not understand.Avery was reading Professor Hough's book on neurology.She was sure Elliot would not understand a thing about it either, so she did not feel inferior to him."What do you think of my necklace?" Tammy asked as she suddenly took off the necklace she was wearing and showed it to Avery."It's pretty. Did your boyfriend give it to you?""He did! It's a Christmas gift. It's even got my name engraved on it!""You can also purchase jewelry which comes with a free engraving offer for under ten bucks," said Avery in earnest. "You shouldn't let these things go to your head!"Tammy did not mind."I
Avery's hair was pulled back in a simple ponytail, and she was dressed in a blue denim jacket over a long white dress.With her guitar in her arms, she took a seat on the high stool placed at the center of the stage.As she adjusted the mic stand in front of her, the room lights dimmed, and she was illuminated by the light of the spotlight that was trained on her. The melodic strumming of Avery's guitar began to echo through the hall, followed by her angelic singing.Her gaze did not search the crowd for anyone in particular, but she could feel a pair of eyes watching her intently.Avery shut her eyes to immerse herself in her performance.Soon after, the stage lights lit up and a colorful wave of flower petals floated down from the ceiling.The audience burst into wild, frenzied cheers.Avery opened her eyes, her thick lashes fluttering.Her face was a picture of bewilderment as petals rustled down in front of her eyes.Nobody told her that there would be a flower shower du
Avery felt Elliot's body stiffen as he stood next to her.The outfit he wore made him look much younger, however, he was still treated like an older person.It must have bothered him."I'm Avery's—"Elliot began to speak, but Avery interrupted him by grabbing his hand, then explained, "I don't know this guy. It's cold out here. Let's head to the car!"At the same time, Tammy pulled the student out of their way.Avery threw Tammy a look of gratitude, then helped Elliot to walk toward the black Rolls-Royce."Your legs haven't fully recovered," she said in a concerned voice. "You shouldn't be walking around like this.""It doesn't hurt anymore," Elliot said.His eyes landed on the bouquet of flowers in Avery's arms."There's a gift in the bouquet," he said awkwardly."What?" Avery said as she stared at Elliot in shock. "You got me a gift? I didn't get you anything, though."The air around them turned thick with uneasiness.They had spent the past week at home. How did he find
Avery could not help herself, and she tapped on the text message from Ben. [Your wife's got a great voice! It's a shame she's not a singer!]Avery had not expected to be able to access Elliot's phone. She would not have been able to get in if he had set a passcode, but he did not have one set up.After Ben's text came through, he sent over a video of Avery's performance.Tammy had sent her the same video earlier and told her that she was going viral on the college's online forum.Avery returned to the home screen and placed the phone back where she had found it. It was at that moment that her finger slipped and opened up Elliot's photo gallery, revealing the photos within.…When Elliot emerged from the bathroom after his shower, Avery gestured at him, and he immediately sat on the bed."I suddenly feel like cooking. Should I cook for you from now on?" Avery asked.Elliot looked at her, confused."Are you serious?""I am!" Avery answered with enthusiasm. "I can't guaran
Avery and Elliot went home in the afternoon to rest because they planned on staying up to ring in the new year.Once Elliot was asleep, Avery opened her eyes and stared at his face.She felt as if she could never watch him for long enough.It was a shame that she could not stop time.It would be perfect if everything could come to a stop at this moment. When Elliot woke up around four in the afternoon, Avery was not next to him.He got out of bed and went downstairs to look for her."You're up!"Avery was in the middle of making dinner."I'm thinking of making steak tonight. What do you think?"Elliot stood at the entrance to the kitchen and watched as she worked away."How about I make dinner?" he asked."You cook?" Avery exclaimed with a look of surprise on her face, then took off her apron and said, "Be my guest! I've never tried your cooking before!""I've never cooked before, but I can follow a recipe," Elliot said as he took the apron from Avery. "Take a break in th
"Happy New Year, Avery," Elliot said as he lifted his hand to wipe the tears off of Avery's face.Avery took a big step back away from him."I'm leaving, Elliot," she said coldly.Before Elliot could react, Avery had already taken the diamond ring off her finger."I can't accept this," Avery said as she shoved the ring into the pocket of his jacket."I love you, but I can't do this anymore."Avery lifted her head as tears trickled down her cheeks."You have photos of that woman on your computer and on your phone. I'm sure you have her in your heart, as well. I admit that you're good to me, but you love her more. I won't force you to explain yourself, nor will I make you give her up… Because I know that it would all be a waste of time," Avery said."We're done!"This was not up for discussion.Avery was informing Elliot of her decision.Elliot was frozen in place, and his eyes were filled with disbelief.Everything was going fine before this.Avery was cooking for him every
Three years later…Ivy and Robert stood at the airport in Aryadelle, anxiously waiting."It's been three years! Your boyfriend is finally here to see you!" Robert exclaimed before shifting the conversation. "He's not here to break up with you, is he? After all, you haven't seen each other in three years. A lot can change."Ivy sighed, "Robert, can you not jinx it? Although we haven't met in three years, we talk on the phone and video call every day!"Robert quipped, "Digital romance.""Anyway, he promised me that he's going to settle down in Aryadelle this time, and we won't be apart again," Ivy said. Robert smirked. "He's got a strong sense of pride. When he meets Dad later, they might not hit it off, and he'll buy a ticket to leave tonight!"Feeling helpless, Ivy was at a loss for words. Just then, a familiar voice called out, "Ivy!"Ivy immediately looked over to the source of the voice and saw Lucas stepping out of the exit, dragging his suitcase behind him. A smile sp
Mr. Woods did not expect Hayden to be so direct, and he found himself momentarily caught off guard. He had come to ask Hayden for money, but he had not thought about exactly how much he wanted. After all, Hayden's family was extremely wealthy, and he did not want to ask for too little and feel shortchanged, nor did he want to risk asking for too much and having Hayden refuse. It was a tough decision. After a brief internal struggle, Mr. Woods turned to Hayden and said, "I know your family is one of the wealthiest in Aryadelle, so why don't you name the price? I trust you won't mistreat my son and our family." Hayden furrowed his brows slightly. Shelly, noticing his hesitation, quickly chimed in, "Uncle, why don't you make an offer? We're not very familiar with this process. If you insist on us naming a price, we might need to consult my father-in-law." "Elliot Foster, you mean?" Mr. Woods asked. Shelly nodded. "Yes. My father-in-law isn't as easygoing as my husband. After a
"All right. Let's find a place nearby to sit and talk." Mr. Woods breathed a sigh of relief. "Good! Our house is actually nearby. Would you like to visit? Ivy has been with us for many years, and our staff has a close relationship with her." Hayden glanced at Shelly and asked, "Should we go?" "Sure!" Shelly said. Mr. Woods immediately invited Hayden and Shelly into his car and drove them to the Woods' mansion. Upon arriving, Mr. Woods instructed the servants to serve tea and refreshments. He pointed to the butler and said to Hayden, "This is our butler. He hired Ivy's grandmother." Hayden nodded. Mr. Woods then introduced Hayden: "This is Irene's older brother, the renowned businessman Mr. Hayden Tate." "Hello, Mr. Tate. Irene was a wonderful young lady," the butler said. "We all liked her very much. When we heard of her passing, we were truly saddened. Fortunately, she didn't actually pass away! Ivy is a very sensible and resilient girl, one of the strongest I've eve
Ivy's eyes were red as she said, "Hayden, Lucas' mother has passed away, so I won't be able to spend time with you for a few days." "It's okay. Given what has happened, we're not in the mood for fun either. After we attend his mother's funeral, Shelly and I will return," Hayden said. Ivy nodded. "How are funerals handled here?" Hayden asked. Given Lucas' relationship with Ivy, his younger sister, he felt a sense of duty to help Lucas with the funeral arrangements. "It's similar to how it's done back at home. Wealthy people can have elaborate funerals, and those with less money can opt for simpler ceremonies. Those who can't afford much at all can forgo the ceremony and opt for a simple burial," Ivy said. "What if someone wants a more elaborate funeral?" "Hayden, do you want to help with his mother's funeral? He doesn't have any close relatives here, so there's no need for an elaborate ceremony," she explained. "I see. Go and talk to him about it. I'll help with whatever I
Lucas hung up, tears welling in his eyes. Ivy stood by his side and asked, "What's wrong, Lucas?" "My mom has passed away. You should keep your brother company! I need to head back to the hospital." "I will come along! Aunty seemed fine just now, so why did she suddenly pass away?" The two hurried toward the car, completely forgetting about Hayden and Shelly. Hayden and Shelly watched as they left awkwardly, and Shelly said, "Honey, let's go to the hospital. I think Lucas' mother has passed away." "Sure." The two caught a taxi and hurried after Lucas. Meanwhile, in the hospital, Lucas arrived to first encounter the doctor and then his father. Mr. Woods tried ingratiating himself with his son, saying, "Lucas, I came to the hospital to see your mother, but when I arrived, she had already passed away. What a shame!" "Are you sure she had already passed away before you came? I was here earlier today, and when I saw her, she was still alive!" Lucas said. Mr. Woods reto
Mr. Woods sneered, "What do you mean? Are you looking down on me? Although the Woods family has fallen on hard times, we're still a prominent family in Taronia! Lucas may be foolish, but are you any wiser? If it weren't for me backing Lucas, would the Fosters even look at him?" "Shut up! The Foster family isn't narrow-minded like you! Ivy's family doesn't dislike Lucas, so don't go causing trouble! They don't want to see you at all!" Lucas' mother retorted. Mr. Woods scoffed. "Is that so? Do you really think they don't look down on him? Why wouldn't they? Are they planning to make Lucas marry into their family instead of the other way round?" "It's none of your business! You never cared about Lucas, and now that he's independent, he doesn't need you anymore! You wouldn't have come to me repeatedly if Ivy wasn't Elliot Foster's daughter and if she wasn't interested in Lucas. Do you really think I have no idea what you are plotting?" Mr. Woods countered, "What nonsense are you ta
Ivy did not hesitate, immediately shaking her head. "I'm not leaving. Don't worry about me; just focus on yourself." "Staying here is just a waste of time." "I've been studying and interning so hard for so long. What's wrong with taking a break now?" Ivy argued. Before long, Hayden and Shelly had finished their shopping, and Ivy and Lucas immediately joined them to go to the hospital. Lucas' mother had no idea that Ivy's brother and sister-in-law were coming to visit her, so she appeared a bit uncomfortable when they arrived. She tried to sit up, but her body failed her. Ivy raised the head of the hospital bed. "Aunty, my big brother and sister-in-law came over to Taronia for a visit. They wanted to see Lucas and you." "Oh, this is really embarrassing. It's a blessing for my son to know Ivy..." Lucas' mother muttered sheepishly. Shelly reassured, "Aunty, don't say that. Lucas is outstanding. Otherwise, Ivy wouldn't have fallen for him." Lucas' mother continued, "I've
Throughout the meal, Ivy found it hard to enjoy her food. Lucas and Hayden discussed everything that mattered, and the conversation went smoother than anyone had anticipated. Hayden was not upset, nor was Lucas. It was a better scenario than what Ivy had hoped for, but she still felt depressed. "Lucas, my husband and I would like to pay your mother a visit. Would that be okay?" Shelly asked after finishing her food. "Sure," Lucas said. "Don't we need to ask your mom first?" Ivy asked. "It's fine. We can just head over right away and introduce them once we arrive." Lucas' mother grew weaker every day and had stopped using her phone altogether, so it was her nurse, whom Lucas had hired, who reported his mother's condition to him daily. "You restarted your business and have to take care of your mother simultaneously; you're really strong. Most people would crumble under the pressure," Shelly commented. "Ivy had a tougher life before. She didn't crumble, so I won't eith
After what Ivy said, Lucas added, "I want to focus on my career for now. Marriage is secondary until I become more successful." Hayden sneered. "Running a business isn't as simple as it seems. What if you fail or never achieve anything out of the ordinary?" "If that happens, I won't drag Ivy down," Lucas said. "At least you know your place." Ivy felt as though her cheeks were on fire. "Hayden, even if Lucas fails, I won't give up on him. I won't let him go just because of his financial state." Shelly grabbed Hayden's hand again, signaling to him to control his temper; he could be rude to others, but he could not be so demanding with Ivy. Ivy sensed that she was slightly out of line, and her tone eased. "Hayden, we shouldn’t judge people based on their wealth. Our family is rich enough, and there really aren't that many people out there who can compare to our financial state, so why does it matter how wealthy my partner is?" "Ivy is right. Love matters most. Even if we man