"Home." Rachel asked cautiously, "Are you coming over?"Maxwell hummed absentmindedly before hanging up.He stood up and walked toward the bedroom.At the same time, Jennifer had just come out of the shower.By the looks of it, she was planning to please Maxwell tonight and wore skimpy lingerie, and her eyes were twinkling.As Maxwell approached her, she wrapped her arms around his neck."Jennifer." He pulled her hand away. "Something urgent came up, I have to head to the company."Jennifer froze and turned to the darkened skies outside. "This late at night? Can't you go tomorrow?"Maxwell bit down his guilt. "I have to go now. You should sleep first. Don't wait up for me.""Sigh... Alright." Jennifer huffed. "I was planning to give you a baby. But you're so unromantic. Forget it!"Maxwell was amused by this and pinched her nose. He grinned devilishly. "I'll make it up to you if you're still awake when I return."After that, he picked up his coat and hurried out the door.
Maxwell tiptoed back to the bedroom.Jennifer was already asleep, the lamp casting a peaceful light upon her face.As he approached, he noticed the half-finished scarf by her pillow.Maxwell's eyes softened as he picked up the unfinished scarf. He carefully examined it.He thought of her question yesterday—why he wasn't wearing a scarf, and her unusual behavior these past two days.So, she wanted to surprise him.A small smile tugged at the corner of Maxwell's mouth.For some reason, Jennifer always brought him happiness, the kind he never felt before.He pecked her forehead gently and tried to tuck her hand back under the covers.Just then, he noticed the red spots on her fingers, evidence of her attempts at knitting the scarf. Without a doubt, these were from her attempts at knitting for the first time.Thinking of the trouble with Rachel, Maxwell felt even worse for Jennifer. He looked at her wounded fingers and felt a mixture of emotions.Just then, Jennifer opened her e
Just then, a nurse came in and whispered something in the doctor's ear.The doctor nodded solemnly and said to Quincy, "You should wait outside."After that, she also sent the other nurses out.Quincy was curious but didn't dare question it.However, as soon as she left the consultation room, she saw Maxwell and Rachel standing not far away.It seemed the hospital director was greeting them.It wasn't until no one else was left in the consultation room that Maxwell walked in with Rachel.Quincy widened her eyes. If it wasn't because she had perfect eyesight she would have thought her eyes were playing tricks on her!Why was Maxwell bringing his mistress for a prenatal checkup? Was his mistress pregnant? Does Jennifer know about this?Quincy's heart pounded. Why did she have to run into trouble on her first day of internship?But her curiosity only grew. Why was Maxwell here with his mistress?So, she hid in the stairway outside, waiting for Maxwell and the others to come out
Quincy was intimidated by Maxwell's presence and nodded nervously. "We agreed to have lunch together.""Today, you'd best not say a word about what you saw earlier." Maxwell's tone was stern. "Otherwise, not even Jennifer can protect you, understand?"Quincy nodded at his threat. But deep down, she felt angry for Jennifer. So, she summoned her courage and asked, "Mr. Lance, how long do you intend to hide this from Jennifer? Isn't this unfair to her? Jennifer loves you."Maxwell had been having a bad impression of Quincy since she had caused trouble for Jennifer before. But he didn't expect she would speak up for Jennifer.Maxwell wasn't one to explain himself, but he decided to confess. "I just haven't found the right time to tell her. But I don't want her to hear it from someone else."Quincy sighed. "I thought you loved Jennifer, especially considering how good you were to her.""I do love her." Maxwell didn't hide anything.But he reminded her, "I hope you won't reveal anythi
Jennifer said, "I didn't do anything over the weekend aside from knitting the scarf. I've finished half of it. I'll be able to give it to him in a few more days."Quincy looked at her sympathetically. "Don't be too good to men, or you'll end up unhappy."Unfortunately, Jennifer didn't take her advice to heart.Maxwell finally replied to her message, asking why she couldn't come home. Jennifer explained that she needed to be on a night shift, which would last until the next noon.Maxwell didn't reply.Jennifer complained to Quincy. "This guy! It's my first night shift, and there's not even a word of encouragement from him."Quincy rolled her eyes and thought to herself, "Maxwell is probably busy with his mistress right now. How could he have time for you?"...After returning from the hospital, Maxwell dropped Rachel off and left. Moreover, he didn't tell her anything.Rachel nervously waited for his response.Did Maxwell not have feelings for her anymore?If it were in the p
Maxwell stared at Rachel in shock and said incredulously, "Please think about it carefully. It wouldn't be fair to the child if they're born without a father.""They have a father!" Rachel gazed at him, sorrow evident in her eyes. "It's just that their father refuses to acknowledge them."Maxwell massaged his temples in frustration. He had to admit that he hadn't treated Rachel fairly in their relationship. And he couldn't shake the feeling that she should not bring this child into the world, either.But could Maxwell really turn a blind eye if Rachel were to go through with this pregnancy?Right then, Rachel suddenly stepped forward. She wrapped her arms around Maxwell's waist from behind and pressed herself tightly against his back. "Maxwell, promise me not to be so cruel. Please give us a home, okay?"The sound of her crying sent shivers down his spine. Suddenly, memories of their past flooded Maxwell's mind. He had once loved her and wanted to give her nothing but the
Khloe, on the other hand, was utterly flabbergasted. She couldn't believe that such an exceptional and handsome man appeared while she was on duty.Moreover, judging from his impressive demeanor, he was not an ordinary individual. But Khloe couldn't fathom how someone as normal as Jennifer knew a man like Maxwell. "Jennifer, why don't you introduce this gentleman to me?" Khloe said as she fixed her gaze on Maxwell. After all, she was a single woman in her thirties. Hence, at the sight of such an outstanding man, she was determined to seize the opportunity. Just as Maxwell was about to respond, Jennifer beat him to it. "Ms. Carter, this is my brother."Maxwell's expression visibly darkened in response to those words. Meanwhile, Khloe's demeanor shifted instantly. She straightened her hair and adopted a flirtatious tone, saying, "Mr. Yale, you treat Jennifer so well. Your sibling bond is enough to make anyone envious!"Yet, Maxwell did not spare her a glance. "Come with me
When Jennifer saw the lust in Maxwell's eyes, she quickly shoved him away, saying, "Don't get carried away. I'm on duty. I can't chat any longer. It's been too long already.""Okay, head back then. Remember not to overwork yourself."Maxwell affectionately kissed her forehead. As he watched her walk away, his gaze held conflicting emotions.He knew he couldn't hurt such a pure and lovely woman. But on the other hand, there was Rachel, who was pregnant with his child. What could he do?Right then, Maxwell finally made up his mind. He decided to resolve the issue before Jennifer found out. Perhaps if he handled it well, Jennifer would never have to learn about it.…Three full days had passed since then. During this time, Maxwell pondered and weighed numerous possibilities. In the end, he took the initiative to meet Rachel. Despite being pregnant, she continued teaching at the dance studio, ensuring her work remained unaffected.Rachel saw Maxwell outside through the floor-t
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