Jonah tightened his grip. "Why won't you answer me? Do you even care about my feelings for you? If you did, why did you lie to me?" Laura closed her eyes and shook her head helplessly. "I didn't mean to lie. Do you remember what happened in the car? I wanted to tell you, but you didn't let me. Do you remember what you said that day?" Jonah froze, recalling that day in the car when he stopped her from talking about her past because he was afraid of feeling jealous about her ex-boyfriend. But he never imagined that Laura would be a mistress.Laura paled. "Jonah, I was going to tell you. We were in a romantic relationship then. But now, we're not in that kind of relationship anymore, and I don't need to explain my past to you."Jonah glared at her. "How could I have known that's what you were going to say? Fine, who is the man? What's he like? Is he as good to you as I am? Is he as serious about you as I am?"Just then, a calm voice sounded. "I'm her man!" Simon strode over
At first, Laura struggled and resisted.But she eventually decided it was better if Jonah gave up and stopped caring about her. She was tainted and didn't want someone as pure as Jonah to be dragged down by her.So, she stopped resisting and let Simon kiss her.After a long while, Simon finally let her go. Her compliance pleased him. Especially now, Laura's lips were rosy from the kiss, and her eyes were glossy from the tears. Her fragile look was enough to ignite any man's desire.Simon swallowed hard and brushed his finger against her cheek. He smirked. "Since you're so obedient, I'll deal with this little problem for you."Laura sobbed, "Be nice. He's just having a hard time accepting this, but he's a good person."Simon's gaze darkened. Laura thought everyone was a good person. Everyone except him.He stepped out of the car. Jonah was still waiting looking like he had a lot to say, and most of it wasn't kind."You might look proper, but you're as corrupt as they get!" Jonah
"What did you mean by 'someone like you'? How can you be unworthy of him when you've caught my attention?" Simon probed. "Am I not as good as that childish fool?"Laura scolded herself. Why was she even telling him all this? Simon was domineering and cold. He could never understand how she felt.Before she could say anything, the car started."Simon, where are you taking me?" Laura asked nervously, pushing against the door. "I want to get out!"Simon replied calmly, "Be good. I'm taking you somewhere."20 minutes later, they arrived at their destination."An arcade?" Laura looked at him in confusion. "Why did you bring me here?"She was already in a foul mood. Playing games was the last thing she wanted to do.But Simon took her hand and led her inside.The arcade was bustling with people. It was just past 9:00 pm, so there was still a crowd.Laura was frustrated. "What are you trying to do, Simon? I'm upset, and I feel terrible. Can't you just let me go home? I'm begging you
Laura's heart raced. She saw the look Simon was giving her. The wanton look was something she was all too familiar with.Laura instinctively stepped back, but Simon pulled her forward, drawing her into his arms. He cornered her in front of the claw machine. His tall figure leaned down, his lips brushing against her ear. "Let me teach you how to win one."Then, Simon placed Laura's hand on the machine's controls. His chest pressed gently against her back.Laura could feel the strong, steady rhythm of Simon's heartbeat. A tingling sensation spread through her entire body, making her feel weak.She held her breath nervously and let Simon guide her hands to operate the claw machine. To her surprise, this time the claw succeeded on the first try. Laura cheered, "Wow! I got it!"She forgot the person helping her was the very man who once dragged her through the mud and caused her endless humiliation.All Laura could think of was how happy she was while holding two stuffed toys in her
Simon hadn't expected Laura to still be planning for a future without him. She even considered Jonah to be part of her future, yet he wasn't!Laura smiled bitterly and hugged the plush toys tightly to her chest. "Thank you for today… I really like these toys." For a moment, Simon had given her the illusion that they were a loving couple. Simon was kind to her, and she admired him. Unfortunately, reality was cruel. She and Simon were destined never to cross paths.Before Simon could react, Laura turned and left.Simon called out to her, "Laura, I can let you see your father once a month! My offer will no longer stand if you take another step forward!" …When Laura returned to her apartment, finding herself entangled with Simon once again, she realized she had given in to her fate. It wasn't her emotions she had surrendered to. But rather, his power. In truth, the prison allowed monthly visitation for families. But in past years, Simon had intervened, ensuring Harry los
Laura knew Simon was a proud and domineering man. He had never tried to pacify her.This realization startled Laura. Was he pacifying her? She didn't dare think further and tried to slip out of his embrace. But Simon was a light sleeper. Her slight movements woke him up. In the past, Simon would always wake up grumpy, hating being disturbed while sleeping. Now, however, he simply grumbled, "Morning." Laura looked at him timidly, still feeling like she was in a dream. Simon gazed at her innocent expression and couldn't resist stealing a kiss from her. "What's wrong? It's been five years. Are you still not used to it?" Laura flushed red. She quickly pushed him away and darted into the bathroom to freshen up. Not long after, Simon followed her inside. He wrapped his arms around her from behind as they brushed their teeth together. In the mirror, Laura saw his handsome face pressed close to her cheek, and her heart couldn't help but race a little. She quickly ri
Simon's throat suddenly felt dry. He asked in a low voice, "Why?" Laura muttered, "Because this is the first home I've ever rented on my own. I worked so hard to decorate it. And... this place feels like home." Simon paused. After a while, he asked calmly, "Then what do I do if I miss you?" Laura's heart skipped a beat. She knew what he meant by that. It was nothing more than a booty call.She gazed down, hiding the sadness in her eyes. "Just text me when you wish to see me, and I'll come to your place." Simon frowned and suddenly pushed her away. He turned around and stuffed his hands into his pockets. He sounded angry. "I'm not looking for a call girl!" Laura sighed helplessly. "Then what am I?" Only silence answered her.Simon scolded himself. What was wrong with him? It wasn't as though he had feelings for her. He was simply used to her presence. He didn't want the hassle of dealing with other women. So, why was he getting upset over her words? Besides, sh
Simon gazed helplessly at the excited Laura, a mix of emotions brewing within him.Laura, who had been despondent earlier, was now brimming with joy at the prospect of seeing her father.But what about his own father? He would never see him again.After breakfast, Simon drove Laura to the prison. He waited outside while Laura entered the visiting room alone.When Harry saw his daughter for the second time in just over a month, he was visibly emotional.Laura looked at Harry's graying hair and the wrinkles etched across his face. Tears streamed down her cheeks."Dad, I'm sorry... I still haven't figured out a way to get you out of here," she choked. "How are you doing there? Is anyone giving you a hard time?"Harry gave her a pitied look. "Laura, don't cry. I'm fine as long as you're doing well. Honestly, life here isn't too bad. We have a routine and receive education every day."But Laura couldn't shake a sudden chilling thought.Over the years Simon would become angry every
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