It was past 11:00 pm when the matchmaking event finally ended. Finley stayed close to Jennifer, showing concern for her. Despite knowing that Jennifer was married to Maxwell, this did not deter his determination to pursue her. Moreover, Jennifer's presence at the event must mean something."Jennifer, I've always known that your marriage with Mr. Lance wouldn't last long," Finley smirked. "Men like him are probably cheating with countless other women. And you're a naive college student. How can you keep up with him? It's good that you've realized this now. I'm sure you'll find someone if you attend these events more."Jennifer stood at the entrance of the hotel. She had thought that Maxwell might come to pick her up. If he saw this, he would maybe start to hate her. But as the hotel entrance emptied and her classmates left, there was still no sign of Maxwell. Instead, Finley persisted, "Jennifer, why don't we..."Jennifer's gaze turned sharp as she coldly asked, "What are you imp
Jennifer shrugged. "I attended a matchmaking event."Seeing her nonchalance and lack of remorse, Maxwell's anger surged. He tightened his grip on her wrist and yelled furiously, "You are a married woman. Why did you attend a matchmaking event? Tell me why you're getting involved with Finley again!"Jennifer shook off his hand. Despite her fear, she retorted defiantly, "Can I not have friends just because I'm married? I think Finley is a nice friend. Is that illegal?"Maxwell sneered. "A friend? More like a backup plan!""So what if he is?" Jennifer lifted her chin and countered, "After all, I'm still going to leave you once your illegitimate child is born. Since that's the case, I obviously need to find someone else for myself. Or do you expect me to die alone?"Maxwell was stunned by her words and looked at her in disbelief. "What did you say? You've been planning to leave me?""Yes, since we're being honest, let me make it clear!" Jennifer steeled herself, suppressing her pain
Maxwell pressed his lips against Jennifer's firmly, sealing her lips shut.To her, it felt like a punishment because his actions were forceful. Jennifer could not help but cry out in pain, "It hurts!"Maxwell's voice was eerie yet seductive as he whispered in her ear, "You need to feel the pain to remember!" Tonight, he was like an enraged beast, relentlessly venting his fury. Although Jennifer was in pain, she refused to make a sound. It was as if she was going head-to-head with him.Even Maxwell himself started to find it uninteresting. So, he got out of bed and headed for the shower. Then, as Maxwell left in the dead of the night, he slammed the door behind him.On the other hand, Jennifer lay on the bed alone. At that moment, she resembled a broken doll.With a vacant stare, she fixed her dark eyes on the ceiling, as though she were trying to bore a hole. After a long while, Jennifer summoned the energy to drag her weary body out of bed and trudged toward the bathroo
Despite Jennifer's hurtful words the night before, Maxwell called Simon. He urged the latter to follow up with Zion's case and continue reaching out to his contacts. Maxwell refused to give up, even if there was just a glimmer of hope. Simon recalled Jennifer's visit the previous day, where he had told her everything. He wondered if she had caused a scene with Maxwell afterward. "How is your wife? Are you two… alright?" Simon asked with a twinge of guilt. Maxwell paused momentarily. He wanted to admit that things were not going great. However, his pride compelled him to reply, "Yes, everything's the same.""That's good to hear." Simon heaved a sigh of relief. He genuinely hoped this matter would not ruin a marriage. Then, Simon promised Maxwell, "I'll think of other ways for this case. Tell Jennifer not to worry too much."Maxwell immediately sensed something was amiss. "Why are you suddenly so concerned about my wife?" he asked with suspicion.He could not fathom why ever
In fact, Jennifer was somewhat confused. She looked at Maxwell and asked, "Aren't you mad? I really got under your skin last night."Maxwell paused for a second before chuckling softly. "Of course, I am! But you're my wife. No matter how angry you make me, I can't just abandon you," he replied. His lighthearted comment sent a sharp pang through Jennifer's heart. She lowered her head to conceal the guilt and reluctance in her eyes. Maxwell gazed at her intently. Then, he said seriously, "But I reflected on it. I am indeed a few years older than you, and I've done things that hurt you. I'm sorry you suffered so much because of me."Since you think I'm not youthful enough, I'll change my style. If you like riding bicycles or electric bikes, that's how I'll pick you up from now on."His words caused Jennifer's heart to skip a beat. Following that, a lump began to form in her throat.Who was Maxwell? He had always been domineering and self-centered. Yet now, he was trying hard t
Worried that Maxwell would blame Jennifer, Martha hurriedly said, "Mr. Lance, maybe Mrs. Lance had a difficult time during her internship today. That could explain her outburst.""Yeah," Maxwell replied in a muffled tone.Then, he immediately followed Jennifer.They entered the bedroom one after the other. "Tell me, did something happen during your internship today? We were fine before, so why have you been trying to provoke me these past few days?" Maxwell inquired patiently."Were we really fine before?" Jennifer looked at him and sneered. "If we were fine, then enlighten me, why did Rachel appear?"Maxwell was rendered speechless by her question. After a long silence, he answered, "We can't change what has happened. I can only assure you that Rachel will never appear in front of you again. You can pretend she doesn't exist.""So, you want me to turn a blind eye? I'm supposed to pretend not to know that you're with your mistress and illegitimate child on nights you don't co
Otherwise, Maxwell would not believe that a person's character and feelings could change so quickly.He admitted that he was feeling nervous and anxious. What should he do to make Jennifer willingly stay by his side?Right then, his phone rang. It was Robert."Grandpa," Maxwell greeted. "It's late. Why are you calling at this hour?"Robert's voice was frail, tinged with a hint of weakness. "You and Jennifer haven't visited in a while. Have you two been fighting again?"Maxwell concealed the worry on his face and calmly replied, "No, we're fine. But you sound so tired, Grandpa. Are you sick?"Robert hesitated for a while. Then, he muttered, "No, it's just old age. Where's Jennifer? I'd like to speak with her.""Alright, I'll get her."And so, Maxwell returned to the bedroom with his phone. When he entered, he saw the panic on Jennifer's face. It was as if she were hiding something.Jennifer hurriedly stuffed whatever it was into her bag when she saw Maxwell coming in. Howev
Jennifer could not even face the profound disappointment and hurt in Maxwell's eyes. …Meanwhile, Maxwell arrived at Nimbus Lounge, looking weary. The manager rushed forward to greet him."Mr. Lance, it's been a while since you last visited," the manager said while following behind Maxwell. It was evident that he was eager to please the latter. With a solemn face, Maxwell ordered, "Find me a decent woman!"After saying that, he immediately walked toward the private room he always reserved. Maxwell refused to believe that he could not live without Jennifer. He was determined to show her that she meant nothing to him.Even without her, there were plenty of women eager to sleep with him. "Of course, sir! Rest assured. I'll definitely find you a decent one!" the manager hurriedly replied.Before long, Millie Butler, a university student who had just started working at Nimbus Lounge, was brought to the private room door. It was her first time doing something like this. She
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