Michael was speechless and wasn't sure if Maxwell hoped the baby would survive or not.He cautiously replied, "The doctor said the baby is strong and no problems have arisen yet.""Got it." Maxwell's face remained expressionless as he waved Michael off.Just then, Simon arrived.Maxwell asked anxiously, "How is it? Any developments?""Zion's driver insists that Zion ordered him to do it. Moreover, Zion was in the car and had every motive to direct the driver," Simon said gravely. "The chances of winning this case are very slim. Unless you get Rachel to call it off, then we might be able to settle it privately."Maxwell sighed. "You know I can't ask her for that. Even if I did, she probably wouldn't agree."Simon smiled meaningfully and teased, "Of course, you can't. After all, it was your father-in-law who crippled her. It'll be hard to ask for forgiveness."Just then, Simon's phone rang. It was his assistant. "Mr. Moore, did you forget about the interview with Ms. Scott today?
Laura hesitated. Should she take a look at the file?She knew she shouldn't infringe on Simon's client's privacy. But curiosity took control of her.What if it was related to the Yale family?With this thought, Laura opened the file and quickly skimmed through it. After reading it, she realized the Yale family was in big trouble.She immediately headed out.The assistant immediately asked, "Ms. Scott, Mr. Moore should be back soon. Won't you wait for him?""Something came up, sorry. Let's reschedule the interview." With that, Laura left. But she ran into Simon at the entrance.Laura screamed as her ankle twisted, and she fell backward.Just when she thought she would hit the ground, a hand firmly wrapped around her waist.Laura froze, staring wide-eyed at the handsome face."You…" She hadn't expected to bump into him just as she was leaving.Laura held her breath and stared at Simon.Simon gazed at her flushed cheeks through the gold-rimmed glasses.Laura was dressed in a
Laura had run over, and she was still panting. "Did you know your dad was in trouble?""My dad?" Jennifer was confused. But her heart suddenly dropped. "What happened to my dad?"Laura said, "I saw a lawsuit about your dad in Simon's office. It seems he's charged with assault. Simon is now your dad's attorney and is handling the case."Jennifer's mind went blank. She grabbed Laura's hand and anxiously asked, "Why would my dad commit a crime? Who did he hurt?"Laura complained, "The file was too thick and I couldn't read it in detail. I don't know the specifics either. I only know that your dad is in trouble. You need to go home and find out for yourself. I have to get back to the studio, so I can't stay."Jennifer thanked her and rushed out. She hailed a taxi as soon as she left the hospital.With her urging, the driver sped her back to the Yale residence.A maid quickly ran to Agnes. "Mrs. Yale Senior, Ms. Jennifer is back!""Does that mean there's a breakthrough in Zion's cas
If Jennifer knew the full story, she would be overwhelmed with guilt. So, Maxwell downplayed the incident, making it seem like an accident.However, Jennifer was filled with doubts. "That doesn't make sense. Why did Laura say my dad was charged with assault? Even if he hit someone, it should have been labeled an accident.""The other party probably charged him because they wanted compensation." Maxwell reassured her, "Don't worry. Simon is experienced with these sorts of cases. He will find the evidence soon if there is a problem."Jennifer's eyes watered, and she choked, "How is the victim doing now? Will my dad be released soon if their injuries aren't severe? Take me to see them. I'll apologize. I'll do anything if they let my dad go."Maxwell's expression shifted. "The victim is seriously injured and doesn't want to see us. They didn't even provide their address.""What should we do? I can't see my dad, and I can't see the victim. How can I help him?" Jennifer felt useless. Zi
"I know," Maxwell said gently. "But the child is safe, and that's something to be thankful for, isn't it?"Rachel cried in despair. "I always thought my legs would recover. If I hadn't overheard those two nurses, I wouldn't have known my legs were beyond repair! I feel bad for the child! They will grow up with a crippled mother!""Don't talk about yourself like that. No matter what, you've given this child a life." Maxwell reassured her. "Listen to me, I will find the best specialists to treat you. Your legs will be fine."Rachel shook her head. "You don't need to comfort me! I know the chances of recovery are slim. But I won't let the person who did this to me get away with it. Never!"Seeing her determination, Maxwell found himself unable to voice his thoughts. Rachel looked at him sorrowfully and asked, "You wouldn't want me to forgive Jennifer's father, would you?"Maxwell hesitated. "If we can settle this privately, I will make sure the Yale family compensates you.""Compens
Rachel's face was streaked with tears. "Maxwell, I've lost everything, and my legs are crippled. If you abandon me and stay with the daughter of the one responsible for my misery, what's the point of living?"Maxwell lowered his gaze. "Jennifer is not her father. We can't mix the two. I believe Jennifer would never do something like this. If she knew her father caused your accident, she would feel guilty and join me in compensating you."Maxwell wanted to stay and comfort Rachel, but seeing that she either kept trying to win him back or slandered Jennifer, he felt he didn't need to stay longer. "You should rest. I'll be going now. Call me if you need anything."...Not long after Maxwell left, Rachel heard footsteps outside her hospital ward. In the quiet of the night, the sound was particularly jarring. Rachel thought Maxwell had returned and felt excited. But to her surprise, the man who entered was Hugo as if he had come from the depths of hell."It's you?" Rachel tensed up
"No, please, I beg you!" Rachel grabbed Hugo's hand and pleaded, "Hugo, for the sake of the time we've been together, don't drive me to the edge. Besides, I'm carrying your child!"Hugo sneered, "But it seems you only have eyes for Maxwell. Do you even care about our child?""I was wrong. I will never do anything to harm our child again." Rachel admitted her mistake. "I know I can't hide anything from you. Please, give me another chance."Hugo pondered for a moment before threatening, "Remember this, I am irreconcilable with Maxwell. I will not tolerate my woman having feelings for him! The only reason I'm letting you stay with him is because you're a pawn for me. If I find out you're playing tricks again, I will kill you!"...Meanwhile, Maxwell had returned home. Jennifer was sitting in the courtyard, lost in thought. Her mind was occupied with Zion's situation. Occasionally, thoughts of Rachel and Maxwell also flashed through her mind. Hearing the car's engine, she immediatel
"Oh my! Mrs. Lance, why are you here?" Martha exclaimed. "It's still early. You should go back to sleep. Otherwise, how will you have the energy for your internship?"Jennifer forced a smile. "I couldn't sleep. Let me help you with breakfast.""This..." Martha firmly refused to let Jennifer help. "Mr. Lance will surely be upset if he finds out. You should rest, Mrs. Lance."Jennifer told Martha about Zion's situation. She lowered her gaze and muttered softly, "I can't do anything else. So, this is the only way I can repay him."Martha sighed, feeling heartbroken for Jennifer who was so considerate despite her age. Jennifer did all this merely to please Maxwell. So, Martha reluctantly allowed Jennifer to help her prepare breakfast.Outside, the sun gradually rose, and breakfast was almost ready. Just then, Maxwell suddenly walked into the kitchen. Seeing Jennifer in an apron, he asked, "What are you doing here? I was wondering why I couldn't find you this morning.""I wanted to pr
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