"Why are you looking at me like that?" Maxwell was amused and puzzled by her gaze.He reached out to tidy her chestnut curly hair and admired her defined collarbones as he remarked, "If you wear that pink diamond necklace at the charity gala in a couple of days, you'll be stunning." Upon hearing that, Jennifer felt a wave of warmth washing over her from deep within and spreading to every corner of her body.Looking up with clear and sincere eyes, she responded with great seriousness, "Maxwell, I don't need such expensive gifts. I'm just a student after all. But your words just now mean more to me than any gift ever could."Maxwell looked at her deeply. He hadn't realized that the slightest warmth from him could bring her such contentment. Remembering how he had acted so harshly toward her that night, Maxwell was overwhelmed with guilt.He lowered his head, pressing his forehead against hers, and whispered, "Jennifer, I'm sorry."Jennifer trembled all over as she felt an unfamili
Laura asked in confusion, "What's happening on your end? If you're being bullied, just tell me. Don't keep it to yourself." "There's really nothing," Jennifer whispered into the phone. "He didn't bully me."Laura felt that it might not be convenient for Jennifer to talk about it right now, but judging from her tone, everything appeared to be okay. Hence, she said, "Well, then I'll be at ease. We'll catch up more tomorrow when we meet!"After they ended the call, Maxwell looked at Jennifer without saying anything."Why are you staring at me like that?" Jennifer looked at him suspiciously.Maxwell narrowed his eyes and questioned, "How much have you badmouthed me to your best friend? She has such a strong guard up against me."Jennifer remained silent. She never badmouthed him in front of Laura. In fact, she only told the truth. Thus, she softly said, "You've been bullying me all along.""How have I been bullying you?" Maxwell chuckled at her, asking, "Did I hit you? Insult you?
Laura asked eagerly, "How did you two make up last night? Tell me all about it."Jennifer felt too ashamed to answer. In reality, it was just wishful thinking on her part. Their problems still remained, Rachel hadn't disappeared, and the wall that stood between them persisted.It wasn't true reconciliation. It was merely her one-sided concession.Witnessing Jennifer's hesitancy, Laura suddenly burst into laughter."What's so funny?" Jennifer asked as she looked at her in confusion.Laura covered her mouth and said, "Could it be that you two... did that again last night?"Jennifer's face turned red instantly, and she retorted, "Stop making things up, or I won't talk to you anymore!"Laura suddenly recalled the purpose of her visit to Jennifer today and said, "Oh, by the way, are you going to the charity gala tomorrow? It's said that Heart of Rouge will also make an appearance at the gala. Let's go together and check it out!"Jennifer shook her head and said, "I have my postgradu
Seeing Jennifer so happy, Quincy decided not to voice her concerns.After finishing their study session, Quincy got ready to head back to the dorm. She asked Jennifer, "How are you getting back? It's already past nine. Did you drive here?""No, driving in the morning is too congested. I took the subway." After a brief pause, Jennifer added, "But I should still be able to catch the last train."Quincy reminded, "Make sure you stay safe. Text me when you get home, okay?""Got it. Goodnight!" Jennifer waved to her.She carried a stack of reading materials as she exited the school gate. From afar, she spotted a familiar figure standing across the road.Maxwell's tall and dignified silhouette, along with his aloof and dignified demeanor, made him stand out even in the night.Jennifer's lips curled into a smile instantly as she hurried toward him.Maxwell took the thick stack of materials from her hands and said, "You're really putting in the effort." "Well, I have to be responsibl
Jennifer couldn't bring herself to like Bridget, so she couldn't show much favor toward her. She asked casually, "Where's Grandpa?""He's in the study talking with Jordan's parents," Bridget replied with a somewhat smug smile. She added, "They're probably discussing our wedding. After all, I'm already carrying Jordan's child. It wouldn't be proper to be pregnant and not get married, would it?"Jordan's face went pale as he stayed silent. Seeing Jennifer still there only made him feel more suffocated. He wished he could shut Bridget up.Maxwell was the only one who remained composed. He even said to Bridget, "You shouldn't stand when you're pregnant. Please, have a seat.""Thank you, Maxwell," Bridget immediately responded sweetly. She even felt Maxwell had already started treating her like family.Jordan caught on to Maxwell's sarcasm. He said angrily, "I'm going out for some fresh air!"With that, he briskly left the room. Jordan, where are you going?" Bridget hurriedly caught u
Jordan's gaze was filled with despair. He wondered if Robert had managed to persuade his parents to accept his marriage to Bridget.Lorraine didn't blame Jordan, but instead, she glared at Bridget resentfully. "Don't get too cocky! Even if you marry Jordan, who knows how long you'll be able to stay in the household?""You don't need to worry about that! How long I can stay depends on my abilities!" Bridget retorted.She always acted without considering the consequences. Even if Lorraine were her future mother-in-law, she didn't regard her highly.Lorraine was infuriated.Soon, with the assistance of the butler, Robert also made his way to the dining room.However, the atmosphere at the table was unusually tense. Apart from a few words exchanged between Robert and Bridget, everyone else seemed lost in their own thoughts, and no one spoke.Robert's voice was solemn as he said, "Ms. Yale, since you're carrying Jordan's child, our family is not one to shy away from responsibility! I
That also meant Jennifer was very important to Maxwell.Maxwell smiled and asked, "Why are you looking at me like that?"Jennifer thought he was such a good guy, but sadly, he wasn't hers to keep. Even if he bought her that pink diamond necklace, it didn't mean anything. He was still going to divorce her.After all, Rachel would never give up!Jennifer blinked her slightly moist eyes. "I'm starting to feel reluctant to leave you."Maxwell was slightly startled. He bent down to kiss her forehead. "Then stay by my side forever, okay?" Jennifer looked at him with confusion. She didn't understand what that meant. If they got divorced and she stayed by his side, then she would be no different from Rachel....Meanwhile, Bridget was driven back to the Yale residence by the Lance family's driver. She felt exceptionally honored.Walking in with her head held high, she addressed her parents, "Mom, Dad, when are you available? Mr. Lance Senior said he wants to invite you over to discus
"You scoundrel, Jennifer is your sister!" Zion erupted in anger. "I knew you had no good intentions. However, if you dare do anything to harm your sister, don't expect me to acknowledge you as my daughter!"Bridget replied indifferently, "Do you think I care? Now that I'm pregnant with Jordan's child, my future status might be beyond your reach."Having said that, Bridget didn't spare a glance at Zion, and she hummed to herself as she walked upstairs. Just as she reached the second floor, she encountered Jane Horst, who had previously cared for Jennifer.Since Jennifer's marriage, Zion had assigned Jane as the housekeeper for the Yale residence. In normal times, they maintained a peaceful coexistence under Zion's strict rule. Despite Jennifer not living at home anymore, Jane, who had a soft spot for her and had looked after her since she was young, continued to come weekly to tidy up her room."Hold on!" Bridget called out and blocked her path.Jane had never liked Jocelyn and Bri
After visiting Harry, Simon left the prison with a heavy heart.He drove along a mountain road, letting the cool air blow against his face. He smoked a few cigarettes to clear his mind before finally heading home.It was late when he got back. Laura was in the kitchen trying to make something to eat. Simon sighed and walked over. "Go rest. I'll handle this."He took the ladle from her and began cooking.Laura didn't leave. Instead, she stood to the side, lost in thought. When had Simon started becoming this gentle? He used to be so distant and untouchable.She had been with him for five years, yet she had never known he could cook.Deep down, Laura wished he stayed the same cold and unreachable figure. At least then, she could keep her feelings in check.Simon asked, "Why aren't you resting?""I… I've been lying down all day. I just wanted to stand for a bit." She came up with an excuse. After a brief pause, she hesitantly asked, "Did you smoke?"Simon only then noticed the
Harry finally realized Simon had orchestrated everything. He had believed the Jensens were the mastermind behind this.Suddenly, thoughts of his daughter flooded his mind. He tried to stand up and confront Simon, but the handcuffs and shackles restrained him, forcing him to remain seated.Harry glared at Simon. "What have you done to my daughter? Tell me! What exactly have you done to her?"Simon smirked. "Nothing much. I simply taught her how to serve me, please me, and keep me happy."Harry's heart dropped. The thought of his daughter, whom he had lovingly raised and cherished, reduced to Simon's plaything after his imprisonment, tore his heart to pieces.It was a fate worse than death. "You! What happened to your father back then was my fault! I take full responsibility!" Harry's voice trembled, "But Laura is innocent. I beg you, let her go. Don't hurt her! You can kill me if you want. I'm begging you. Please, let Laura go!" Simon gazed at the desperate man before him. Ye
It was as if Simon blamed Laura for always asking stubborn questions.Their relationship was far from normal. He didn't understand why she insisted on getting to the bottom of everything.Laura's heart dropped. She returned to the bedroom, feeling utterly lost. Her heart ached. Simon was the most ruthless, selfish, and self-serving man she had ever met.Everything she had endured last night seemed insignificant to him. What mattered to him was that his mother hadn't caused her death, sparing him from any trouble.Around noon, Simon entered the bedroom.Laura was sitting on the rocking chair by the window, staring outside. The once-proud Laura now carried a sense of melancholy.Simon's heart tightened seeing her pale face. Unfortunately, apologizing wasn't his strong suit. He was too prideful for that.Still, he walked over to her and stroked her hair. "Don't take what I said to my mother earlier to heart. It wasn't aimed at you. Laura, you've been with me for five years. I thoug
Simon's words comforted Laura.After finishing the soup, she burrowed back under the covers. She peeked out to gaze at Simon, who was working on the couch. She could never get enough of him no matter how long she looked.Even though she knew she was being pathetic, she couldn't help herself. She was charmed by Simon. Every move he made exuded the poise and charisma of a mature man. Especially when he was focused on his work, it always stirred a sense of admiration in her.Eventually, drowsiness took over, and she drifted off to sleep again. She wasn't sure how long she slept. But later, she groggily heard Simon's voice as he spoke on the phone.Simon was on the balcony, talking to Fiona. Fiona feigned innocence. "How would I know she was on the balcony? I just noticed it was about to rain and wanted to close the balcony door for you."Simon's tone sharpened. "Mom, there's no point in making these excuses. We're mother and son. I can see right through you. If you pull another st
Laura understood Simon was technically still single since he wasn't married yet. She could still deceive herself and live in denial. But he would become someone else's husband once he married. Would she want to be his mistress?If it came to that, even she would despise herself.Simon hummed. "You can decide for yourself when that time comes. You can leave if you don't want to stay with me. But my promise will be void. You'd better believe me when I say, only I can save your father."Looking at Simon's emotionless face, Laura suddenly realized how cruel and cold-hearted he truly was. The feelings she thought they shared, the love and devotion she had poured her heart and youth into, were but a transaction in his eyes.Laura nodded. "Then let's set a deadline. I'll give you one year. If, after one year, my father's case remains unchanged, then we'll… cut ties."Simon replied calmly, "Fine, as you wish. Now get some rest."Only then did Laura close her eyes and stop resisting his t
Simon didn't give Laura any chance to react. He took a sip and then lowered his head before capturing her lips.Laura's eyes widened as Simon forced her to swallow the soup. She pounded on his shoulders before Simon let her go.He demanded, "I'll have no choice but to feed you like this if you don't drink the soup and take your medicine."Laura glared at him, her face flushed with both anger and embarrassment. She grabbed the bowl and downed the soup in one go. Then, she took the cold medicine he handed her.Simon finally relaxed and tucked her in. "Sleep."But how could Laura possibly fall asleep? Especially when Simon lay down beside her, pulling her into his embrace. She gritted her teeth. "Can you not touch me? I'm begging you. Don't touch me!"Simon didn't respond. He held her tightly, his warmth radiating through the thin fabric of her pajamas.Later, he noticed Laura was trembling and thought she was cold.When he turned her to face him, he realized her eyes were red, an
A sharp pain pierced Simon's chest. In the next instant, he held Laura tightly, as though trying to shield her from the cold. But still, she trembled uncontrollably. Without hesitation, he rushed to fill the bathtub with warm water and slowly placed her into it.Simon stroked Laura's pale face, then gently instructed, "Stay in the bath for a while. I'll make you some peppermint tea. If you start running a fever later, we might need to go to the hospital."Having said that, he turned to leave the bathroom. But as soon as he closed the door, he heard her crying.Simon froze in his tracks, then turned and rushed back in. He quickly undressed and stepped into the tub before pulling her into his arms. "I'm sorry, Laurie. I'm so sorry I came home so late," he apologized in a hoarse voice. "I-I didn't know they would—""Go away! Don't touch me!"Laura shoved him away with all her strength. Her voice broke as she screamed, "While you were happily spending time with your family, I was
As soon as Simon finished speaking, he froze. He had repeated what Laura had told him that day, almost exactly.He was a lawyer. Yet, his response was far from professional. Laura's words and actions had crept into his thoughts without him even realizing it. The realization unsettled him, leaving him feeling irritated.Meanwhile, William avoided Simon's gaze, guilt written all over his face. "Why are you bringing this up again? I've already told you. Those people came from some poor countryside. They don't deserve one million dollars."Besides, who in the right mind would complain about having too much money? If I can settle this with 200 thousand dollars, why should I pay a million? Didn't you say you found evidence to clear Brooks Group of most of the responsibility?"Simon had indeed found such evidence. That crucial piece meant Nick's family couldn't demand much compensation. Yet, a tightness gripped his chest, as if something unseen was pressing down on him. For some reaso
Fiona fixed her gaze on Simon, then replied, "Tell me honestly. Do you really only see Laura as the daughter of our enemy? If so, why do you keep putting off your engagement to Hailey?"Is there something else on your mind? Let me warn you. If you've developed any sympathy for that bitch, I'll end my life right in front of you!"Simon's heart sank as he heard that. He could clearly see the unwavering determination in her eyes. He would never doubt Fiona's words. After all, it was Harry who had caused Anthony's death, and that had shattered her life completely.The humiliation and torment Fiona had once endured flooded Simon's mind. He clenched his fists, unwilling to dwell on it any longer.He knew that Fiona would never accept Laura. The incident was something Fiona could never get over. Suddenly, she became agitated and grabbed Simon's arm tightly. Her voice was desperate as she demanded, "Tell me now. Do you have feelings for that bitch? Answer me!""Mom, calm down. I promi