"I see." Maxwell hummed meaningfully, "If every depressive patient had someone they wanted to meet, then would all depression be cured?"Rachel's face shifted. She couldn't bring herself to meet his gaze and stuttered, "Maxwell… What do you mean by that?""It's nothing." Maxwell gave her a complicated look. "Just a random thought."…At the same time, Laura and Jennifer went shopping and watched a movie before returning home late at night."Welcome back, Mrs. Lance." Martha hurriedly greeted them. "It's almost 11:00 pm, I was so worried."Jennifer smiled gently. "I forgot to inform you.""I'm glad you're back." Martha asked with concern, "Have you eaten? Let me make you some supper."Laura grinned. "We did. It's Jennifer's birthday today, so we've been shopping and eating all day!""Oh, today is your birthday?" Martha was surprised. "Does Mr. Lance know?"If he knew, why did he call earlier and say he wasn't coming back tonight?Laura cursed angrily, "That asshole is probabl
Jordan stood at the gate."Jennifer, over here!" He waved to her with a smile.Jennifer hurried over. "Why are you here so late? What's the matter?"She wanted to open the gate for him, but the key was with Martha.Jordan shook his head. "It's okay, I just want to give you something."Jennifer tilted her head at this.Jordan pursed his lips and took out an exquisite gift box from the car. "This is for you. Happy birthday, Jennifer!"Jennifer froze in surprise, "How did you know it's my birthday?"Jordan didn't want her to know he ran a background check on her, so he made an excuse. "I heard it from Bridget before. Jennifer, I know it wasn't your fault for her miscarriage. After all, it's my fault that you're in so much trouble. Consider this gift as my apology."He looked at her with a gentle gaze.Jennifer felt uncomfortable, especially since Maxwell and Bridget had misunderstood her relationship with Jordan.To avoid gossip, she quickly returned the gift with a smile, "I a
Jordan watched Jennifer's retreating figure with reluctance and pity.Since the day he'd fallen for her, he had blocked all those women in his contacts and almost cut off all other social interactions.But even so, Jennifer never even spared a glance at him.What about Maxwell? How dare he trap Jennifer at home while he fooled around with other women?Jordan wondered if Jennifer would consider being with him if she knew his feelings for her. Would she divorce Maxwell?At the thought of this, Jordan decided to confess to Jennifer after he settled Bridget's issue for good!…In the bedroom, Jennifer opened the gift Jordan gave her and immediately gasped."It's beautiful." She admired the bracelet in the gift box, the pink diamond in the middle shining brightly.Even with the night light, it couldn't diminish the shimmering brilliance.Although Jennifer wasn't a jewelry expert, it was normal for a lady to have a weak spot for shining things.She put the bracelet on and found
Laura was also cheering Jennifer on from the side, urging her to break out of her shell. Therefore, Jennifer had no choice but to follow their advice.The black dress complemented her figure beautifully and added a touch of mystery to her. Her hair was tied in a high bun, with a few loose strands framing her face.Just then, Laura suddenly noticed the bracelet on Jennifer's wrist."Oh! Is that Heart of Rouge?" She shrieked, taking Jennifer's hand to examine it. "Wow! Where did you get this, Jennifer? Did Maxwell give it to you? But wait, wasn't it auctioned off?"Laura remembered that someone reserved the bracelet long ago, so there was no chance to bid on it.Could it be Maxwell had reserved the bracelet for Jennifer?Jennifer quickly pulled her aside and whispered, "Don't be so surprised. This is a lab diamond. It's a birthday gift from Jordan. A client gave it to him.""It's a lab diamond?" Laura, who had never seen the real Heart of Rouge, was at a loss and couldn't tell i
The more Jennifer stared at them, the more her heart ached.Just then, a harsh voice reached her ears. "Oh, no wonder you look so pathetic. How dare you attend such a high-end ball wearing a knockoff bracelet? It seems Maxwell has found a new love and doesn't want you anymore!"Jennifer never expected that Bridget, who had recently suffered a miscarriage, would also attend the ball.Bridget wore a pair of high heels and a backless dress, looking sexy and seductive. What was more surprising was that she was wearing the same bracelet as Jennifer.Bridget glared disdainfully at Jennifer. "Look, Jennifer. This is the authentic art of Kalanthe—Heart of Rouge.She raised her wrist to show off her pink diamond bracelet. After a moment of surprise, Jennifer regained her composure. She only wore this bracelet because she thought it looked nice. She didn't expect to clash with Bridget's bracelet.But she hadn't stolen anything, so what did she have to feel guilty about? So, instead of ta
Jennifer was paired with Jordan!Bridget immediately glared at her. "Are you doing this on purpose? You must be kidding! You secretly registered but made me miss it! How despicable of you!"Jennifer was also surprised. It wasn't until she saw Laura winking at her that she realized Laura must have helped her register.Just then, Jordan, dressed in a white tailcoat, walked over. He ignored Bridget and went straight to Jennifer.He smiled gently, extending his hand to her. "Ms. Yale, may I have this dance?"Bridget was furious about being ignored. She exposed Jordan. "What a good actor you are! Have you forgotten the foul language you used against me? As well as those despicable actions you took? It'll be the same after you win her over!"Jordan's face fell. But because he needed to maintain a gentlemanly demeanor, he pretended not to hear her and waited patiently for Jennifer to place her hand in his.Jennifer hesitated. When she caught a glimpse of Rachel's coy smile next to Maxw
Maxwell gripped his wine glass as anger flickered in his gaze.After two years of marriage, he never noticed how enchanting his wife's dance skills were.Beside him, Rachel had long noticed Maxwell's change in demeanor and said meaningfully, "Maxwell, Ms. Yale and Mr. Jordan look cute together! If you truly feel guilty toward her, why not let her be with your brother? That way, we'll still be family."If only she had kept her mouth shut… Alas, Maxwell now felt a fire burning within him.If they weren't in public, he might have already dragged Jennifer out of the dance floor!How dare she wear such revealing clothes and flaunt herself? Who did she think she was?Rachel carefully observed him. "Maxwell, I also want to dance. Won't you accompany me?""Didn't I say I find this kind of game boring?" Maxwell tossed his drink back and growled, "There's so many registered. I don't want to be part of them."Rachel looked at him affectionately and whined, "I can tell the organizer that
Yet, with all eyes on her and the criticism circulating, Jennifer could not help but feel somewhat embarrassed.Fortunately, Laura rushed over just in time, chiding, "What a bunch of busybodies! What does it matter to you whether it's genuine or an imitation? Are any of you paying for it?"Right then, Bridget walked over, putting on airs as she deliberately raised her voice. "Show some respect for my sister! After all, there's only one Heart of Rouge bracelet in the world, and I've got it on my wrist. Since Jennifer liked it, she had no choice but to buy a knock-off."With that said, Bridget raised her wrist and savored the admiration of the onlookers.Jennifer, on the other hand, did not want to waste her energy on someone like Bridget. All the former wanted was to leave as soon as possible.But Laura was different. She had a fighter's spirit and was always ready to engage in conflict.So, she scoffed and uttered, "Have you heard of the saying 'clothes don't make the man'? Eve
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