Ivy smiled as she handed a tissue to her teacher. "That's also one of the reasons why I wanted to come back. There are people who have been kind to me here." Mr. Zeeland wiped his tears and put his glasses back on. "Irene, how are your current parents treating you? You seem to be doing well now... They must treat you well, right?" Ivy nodded. "Yes, they treat me very well." "How long are you planning to stay here this time?" Mr. Zeeland asked. "Probably about two weeks! I really wanted to visit the campus, but the security guard outside wouldn't let me in," Ivy replied. "Haha! After we finish eating, I'll take you in. The school is still the same. Not much has changed." Mr. Zeeland added, "Well, there is one change. It's become even more run-down." After their meal, Ivy asked her bodyguard to wait outside the school, and she followed Mr. Zeeland into the campus. The school indeed looked the same, although it had become a bit more dilapidated. "Mr. Zeeland, I'd like to a
Ivy took a deep breath and explained, "My grandmother used to work there. I just want to go in and take a look." Archer replied, "But we can't get in, right? We need an access card!" Ivy glanced at the security booth and then got out of the car. Instead of heading directly to the entrance of the residential area, she turned and went to the nearby market. Ivy bought some fruits and had Archer carry two bags while she carried two herself before returning to the residential area's entrance. Ivy smiled and spoke to the security guard inside. "Uncle, could you please help open the gate for us?" Upon seeing all the bags they were carrying, the security guard immediately grabbed his keys. However, before opening the gate, he responsibly asked, "I haven't seen you before! You're not residents of this community, right?" "We're here to visit relatives. We are the relatives of the owners of Villa 3-06," Ivy replied. The security guard listened and promptly opened the gate for them.
The Woods’ kitchen was just like it was three years ago, and the servants who worked inside remained unchanged. Although Ivy felt a strong connection to them, they did not recognize her. When she brought fruits for them to eat, they were very grateful and treated her with great courtesy. "What should we call you, Miss? Mrs. Woods might still be asleep," one of the servants said. "She's still not awake? She used to get up quite early," Ivy replied naturally. "Yes! She never used to sleep in, but, ever since so many unfortunate things happened in the family, she has developed insomnia. She can't sleep at night and can only get some rest during the day," the servant explained. "Have there been a lot of unfortunate events in the Woods family?" Ivy tensed. "Didn't your mother tell you? I thought everyone in the neighborhood knew!" the servant said. "I study overseas and rarely come home. My mother didn't tell me anything," Ivy explained with a smile. "Well... Our eldest yo
"I don't know about that. They didn't mention that." "I see," Ivy muttered. "I'm surprised that you know about Lucas as well!" the servant said. "I'm around his age, right?" Ivy chuckled. "I was still around when he first returned to his family, and I even saw him from afar before! He is slender and tall, and he always wore a thin jacket despite the cold weather." "Yeah! He doesn't seem afraid of the cold, and I've never seen him sick before. Young people are tougher, I guess," the servant said. "By the way, what's your name? I've never seen you around." "My name is Ivy. I should let you get back to work now," Ivy said and added, "Since Mrs. Woods is in a bad mood, don't bother telling her that I've been here. You can keep all the fruits to yourself!" "You are such a nice girl! Come by again whenever you are free!" "Sure!" Ivy emerged from the back door of the mansion, and Archer immediately inquired, "Done with the chat?" She nodded. "My grandmother worked here for a
Ivy's eyes lit up with realization. "Let me look it up." Archer interjected. "Ivy, do you really have to see him? He probably won't recognize you, and if you reveal your identity as a wealthy heiress, he'll definitely try his luck with you. I advise against confronting him." "He's not that kind of person," Ivy insisted. "People change over three years. You don't know if he's the same person anymore. In this society, the temptation of wealth is always strong. With money, you have everything. So, my suggestion is to not meet with him," Archer reasoned. "If I don't tell him who I am, I might not even get to see him. Even if I do, I'll just be talking to him as a stranger. He doesn't like talking to strangers," Ivy explained. "You haven't tried, how do you know he won't talk to you? You're such a beautiful young lady; most men can't resist your charm. If you lack confidence, you can put on some makeup and dress up," Archer suggested. "Alright, I'll check the name of his company
Archer gasped in disbelief. "You're so outstanding! What if he actually hires you? Are you really planning to stay here and work? Weren't we supposed to leave after half a month?" "I was just saying! I'll figure it out later. Even if he hires me, I can leave anytime!" Archer nodded. "Makes sense." After finishing their meal at the restaurant, they prepared to visit Lucas's company. Inside the car, Archer asked, "What's the name of his company?" "Night Technologies," Ivy answered. "That's not a pleasant-sounding name." "Different strokes for different folks. You might not like it, but he clearly does," Ivy said. "Ivy, your parents won't let you marry and settle in Taronia. It's fine that you want to visit this guy, but don't fall in love with him," Archer warned. "When I first met him, I never had any contact with the opposite sex. He was the first guy who treated me kindly, so my feelings for him are special. I definitely like him a lot, but I don't know whether we wi
"Wait for me outside," Ivy said to Archer. The receptionist was taken aback. "You two are together?" "Yes. He's my friend, and he accompanied me here," Ivy said. "So, you're here for an interview?" His attitude suddenly became more enthusiastic. "Come in first. Let me check if the hiring manager is available." "Sure," Ivy said and gave Archer a signal, asking him to leave. However, the receptionist generously invited him inside as well. "Your friend can also come in and sit. There are no seats outside!" And so, Archer followed Ivy into Night Technologies. The receptionist poured a glass of water for each of them, then went to call the hiring manager. Unfortunately, the hiring manager did not pick up the phone. "Our manager isn't in the office," the receptionist said apologetically. "He's not in the office? Is he out looking for new employees?" Ivy asked. The receptionist nodded. "Yes, he went outside to recruit people." "I guess there aren't many people who proa
Lucas grabbed Ivy's resume and glanced through it. When he saw that she majored in broadcasting, he looked at her and asked, "Are you sure you have the right place?" "Yeah!" "Do you even know what kind of a company this is?" he asked. She beamed. "Of course! I think it's a gaming company, right?" She remembered that Lucas used to love playing video games and would stay up all night playing, without drinking or eating anything. "It's good that he turned his hobby into a career," she thought. "Since you know that, what are you doing here? What do you have to offer?" "I can do anything," she said. "I'm a quick learner." Lucas set the resume on the desk. "You are from Aryadelle, so why did you come all the way here to Taronia?" Lucas could sense something was amiss with Ivy. Having graduated from a reputable university in Aryadelle with a degree in broadcasting, she could easily find a job in her field either there or in Taronia, so it made no sense for her to work in a
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