Jennifer's heart shattered into pieces. She nodded at Rachel and asked, "You've achieved your goal. Spill it. What more do you want?"Rachel gazed at her with satisfaction. With a mocking tone, she replied, "Ms. Yale, I know you value your dignity and pride. Since the truth is right before you, what's the point in clinging onto Max?"Having said her piece, she strode away, leaving Jennifer standing alone in the cold hallway. Despite the crowd and noise, Jennifer felt as though she couldn't hear or see anything. Her mind had gone blank. It wasn't until Quincy's voice echoed in her ears that she snapped back to reality. "What's wrong, Jennifer?"Quincy had passed by the outpatient clinic and saw Jennifer standing there in a daze. When she approached the latter, she realized Jennifer was crying. Anxious, Quincy shook Jennifer and insisted, "Talk to me. What's going on?""I'm fine," Jennifer muttered numbly as she wiped her tears.She forced a smile and added, "I need to get
Khloe repeatedly brought up Maxwell to prompt Jennifer to open up about her brother. Khloe wanted to know details about his financial situation and job. Unfortunately, Jennifer had never shared any information about Maxwell. Left with no choice, Khloe resorted to a direct approach. "By the way, is your brother coming to pick you up today?""I don't know."A brief moment of confusion flickered across Jennifer's face. Yet, Rachel's pregnancy filled her mind. This time, Khloe asked indirectly, "Your brother probably doesn't have a girlfriend, right? Otherwise, he'd be spending time with her instead of picking you up.""Ms. Carter, it's time to clock out. I'm taking my leave now."Khloe's question was left unanswered as Jennifer rose to her feet and left the clinic. At that sight, there was a hint of disdain on Khloe's face. Had it not been for Jennifer's handsome brother, Khloe wouldn't have been so lenient with her. But Jennifer remained tight-lipped. Several days had pas
Jordan knew he was no match for Maxwell now. Nevertheless, he feared his presence might lead to Maxwell venting his anger on Jennifer."Max, I'm just here to say goodbye to Jennifer. There's no need to be so angry, right?" said Jordan.He continued, "Anyway, I'm leaving tomorrow. I won't pose any threat to you. Please don't make things difficult for Jennifer. I'm begging you."Maxwell sneered and responded disdainfully, "Even if you stay, you're still not a threat to me. As for my wife, do you think you're worthy of calling her by her name?" Jordan's expression changed slightly. But he was in no position to fight for himself. Indeed, Jennifer was Maxwell's wife. So, what right did Jordan have to speak up for her?Jordan sighed and looked at Jennifer intently. "I'm leaving now. I hope you'll be happy."Jennifer remained silent as she watched his retreating figure. After Jordan left, Maxwell coldly remarked, "He's almost out of sight, but you're still looking, huh?"Jennifer
That was because Maxwell could tell Jennifer already knew something."Who told you?" he asked with a darkened expression. He had clearly warned Quincy not to say a word. Yet, she remained oblivious to the consequences and told Jennifer about it. As tears trickled down her face, Jennifer replied with a trembling voice, "If Rachel hadn't come to the hospital today to put on a show for me, I'd still be in the dark, letting you play me for a fool!"What do you want exactly? Are you waiting for her to have the baby so I can witness your perfect family? You've gone too far, Maxwell Lance!"Jennifer trembled with anger. At that point, she had lost her composure and was crying uncontrollably.Suddenly, Maxwell stepped forward to embrace her. "I'm sorry, Jennifer. I'm truly sorry," he muttered."Stop apologizing to me!" Jennifer forcefully pushed him away. She shook her head and questioned, "Why did you lie to me, Maxwell? Why didn't you tell me the truth? Are you worried I wouldn't
Jennifer began to waver and asked cautiously, "When you say 'resolve', do you mean you'll ask Rachel to terminate the pregnancy?""Yes, since I can't provide her a future, it wouldn't be fair to her and the child if she were to proceed with this pregnancy."Maxwell stroked her hair tenderly and added, "Stop crying. Trust me just this once, okay?"Even though Jennifer felt sorry for the unborn child, she yearned for her own happiness.As long as Maxwell was not toying with her and was committed to their relationship, she was willing to give him another chance. She could even forget about his past mistakes. So, Jennifer looked at him. "How long do you need to handle your relationship with Rachel and break it off with her?""By the end of this month," Maxwell answered.By the end of the month, Rachel would be three months into her pregnancy. Maxwell figured having the surgery before she reached the three-month mark of her pregnancy was better. That way, it would reduce the risk
Rachel immediately realized that Jennifer must have complained to Maxwell.She looked at him innocently and said, "Is that what your wife told you? I didn't even know she had started working at that hospital. How could I possibly go there to find her?"I just went for a check-up today and saw her there. After she found out that I was pregnant, she chased after me and repeatedly asked if this was your child."At that point, Rachel bit her lip in grievance. "S-She even warned me to get rid of this child. I dared not tell you all these things. How could she still play the victim?"However, Maxwell's expression did not soften the slightest."There are so many hospitals in Haven City. Why did you specifically go to the one where Jennifer works?" Suddenly, Rachel burst into tears. It was as if she had suffered a great injustice. "You're accusing me! I know you don't trust me anymore ever since I pretended to be sick and deceived you. But how could I joke about my baby?"At the mentio
Maxwell realized that if he and Rachel were a mistake, then it was time to call it quits. With that thought, he steeled his heart and said, "I'll accompany you to the hospital tomorrow. If you must hate someone, let it be me. Only then can you truly start afresh. Rach, I've let you down."Stunned, Rachel stood frozen in place. She never expected that one day, Maxwell would be so cruel and indifferent toward her. Maxwell's gaze remained calm as he remarked impassively, "Have a good rest. I'll come pick you up tomorrow morning." Just as he was about to step out the door, Rachel suddenly embraced him from behind. "Please stay, Max. Spend some time with me and our child. I'll listen to you and proceed with the surgery. But tonight, I beg you to stay with us for one last time."With a tone that carried grievance and restraint, Rachel's voice made it impossible for Maxwell to refuse.In the end, he chose to stay. However, Maxwell did not share a bed with Rachel. Instead, he sl
When Rachel woke up early the next morning, she found that Maxwell was already awake.His towering figure was seated on the couch, and the ashtray before him was filled with cigarette butts. It seemed like he had been smoking quite a bit. Rachel walked over and crouched before him. Her voice choked up as she said, "You didn't sleep well either, right? You couldn't bear to part with our child, could you?"Maxwell neither admitted nor denied it. After all, this was his child, too. He was about to end the life of his flesh and blood. So, of course, he felt bad.But it did not matter anymore. What Maxwell wanted was Jennifer's child, not Rachel's. He handed Rachel two property transfer agreements and two cards. "I had Michael arrange this overnight. These two villas are situated in Haven City's prime locations. And the funds on these cards are enough to keep you comfortable for the rest of your life," Maxwell calmly explained.Rachel shook her head in response. "What do you 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