Recalling the hurtful words he had said, which reduced Jennifer to nothing, Maxwell was now consumed with guilt.He gripped the steering wheel tightly with both hands. Instead of driving away, he sat there in silence while his heart ached terribly. Suddenly, Maxwell leaned over and pulled Jennifer into his arms. He stroked her hair repeatedly and whispered, "I'm sorry, Jennifer. I'm so sorry…""You don't owe me any apologies."Jennifer trembled in his embrace, her voice choking with sobs as she responded, "I wanted the divorce, and now, I need your help with my father's problem. I've asked too much of you. "I can't treat you like my benefactor, and I can't force myself to set aside my ego to please you like other women. But Maxwell, I don't like it when you accuse me. I feel extremely sad whenever you misunderstand me."As he listened to the woman in his embrace, all the pent-up emotions Maxwell had been carrying for days dissipated instantly.He felt a sharp pang shoot throug
Jennifer's face finally lit up with a smile as she said, "Thank you."Maxwell exhaled in exasperation. He could not shake the feeling that he was wrapped around her finger.…Once they arrived home, Maxwell instructed Jennifer to eat dinner first. He, on the other hand, rushed to the bathroom and took a cold shower, calming the desire that had built up throughout the journey.As soon as he was done, his phone rang urgently.Maxwell answered the call, only to hear Michael's panicked voice."Mr. Lance, we have a problem. The news about your plan to acquire Yale Corporation has reached the board of directors. The shareholders are too scared to question you, so they've been calling me for answers."Now that Mr. Lance Senior is critically ill, your father and brother are eyeing your position. At a time like this, we can't let anything go wrong."Maxwell was well aware of everything Michael had said. However, with years of experience in the business world, he had long learned to stay
Jennifer did not understand why Maxwell would slander Zion like that.In her perception, her father had always been so kind and loving toward her. He was dedicated to his job, often leaving early and returning late.So, what gave Maxwell the right to accuse Zion of being a murderer? Jennifer grew increasingly furious the more she dwelled on it. Her eyes were now blazing with anger.She was overwhelmed with disappointment as she wiped away the tears at the corners of her eyes. Jennifer had believed that after leaving Robert's ward and pouring her heart out to Maxwell, he would finally understand her. Yet, he remained the same arrogant and selfish man. After what seemed like an eternity, the familiar voice reached her ears. "How long do you plan to stay here? If you catch a cold, I'll have to take care of you."Jennifer was startled into a jump. She turned back to look at him and answered defiantly, "If I catch a cold, I'll manage on my own. I don't need your help! Otherwise,
Zion's face turned ashen with anger. However, for the sake of Yale Corporation, he had no choice but to endure it. Clenching his teeth, he asked in a low voice, "Mr. Lance, Jennifer mentioned that you asked to see me today to discuss acquiring Yale Corporation. If I refuse, you'll respect my decision, right?"Maxwell stared at him quietly and replied, "There are some things I'd like to address first. I believe you'll agree once I say them."Zion could not figure out Maxwell's intentions. So, he answered with a hint of impatience, "Well then, Mr. Lance, please enlighten me.""Jennifer and Laura are best friends. If I'm not mistaken, you and Harry were once very close as well. Why does it seem like you're strangers with no connection now?" Maxwell interrogated, enunciating each word deliberately.In an instant, Zion's expression changed drastically. Though Maxwell did not delve into the details of those years, his gut feeling told him that Maxwell must know something.He struggled
Zion, unable to contain his emotions, defended himself, "Jennifer is my daughter, and I cherish her more than anything. How could I possibly use her for my gain?"Yes, I've made mistakes in the past, but I intended to help people, not harm them. I'm not someone who would stop at nothing to get what I want!"Maxwell laughed sarcastically in response. "If you truly felt guilty and knew you were wrong, you would be in prison by now. In the end, you still covered up your crimes and remained free." Zion could not hold it in any longer. In the next second, he burst into tears as he covered his face with his hands. "Yes, you're right. I didn't step forward back then and did everything I could to hide my crimes instead. But all these years, I've deeply regretted it. I haven't had a single good night's sleep!"Yet, Maxwell did not feel sorry for him. After all, compared to Simon's ordeal, Zion got what he deserved.He reminded Zion, "I'll try my best to protect you and Yale Corporation
Jennifer lowered her head shyly, her heart in turmoil. She wondered what she meant to Maxwell now.But after hearing what Zion said, she was grateful for everything he had done for her and Yale Corporation. Agnes was also delighted to see that the issue was resolved. For the first time, she looked kindly upon Jennifer. She could not help but think that her granddaughter had finally proven her worth.At the very least, Yale Corporation now had Maxwell as a powerful backer. Therefore, Agnes hurriedly told Jennifer, "Jennifer, moving forward, make sure you get along well with Mr. Lance. You should also come back and learn some cooking from me. Being more domestic will appeal to men."Jennifer furrowed her brows awkwardly and replied, "Grandma, I've already divorced Maxwell."Even if she had not, she did not want to resort to treating herself poorly to win his favor. Agnes' expression darkened right away. "Take it as doing it for your father and our family. Shouldn't you be more
So, Jennifer took the wine glass from Agnes, set it aside, and uttered, "Grandma, he said he doesn't want to drink. Besides, alcohol isn't good for our health."Agnes felt embarrassed and shot her a glare. In contrast, Maxwell chuckled lightly."Okay, I'll listen to you," he said to Jennifer, his voice tinged with affection.At that moment, Maxwell seemed like a man under his wife's thumb.Jennifer's face flushed red with embarrassment. She could not fathom why he had chosen to speak to her in such a suggestive tone in front of her father and grandmother. After finishing their meal at the Yale residence, Agnes insisted on Maxwell staying for coffee. "No, thank you. I have things to attend to back home, so I'm leaving with Jennifer now."After declining, Maxwell held Jennifer's hand, ready to leave.But right then, Zion called out to them. He looked at Maxwell intently and remarked, "Mr. Lance, I'm entrusting Jennifer to you."In the gaze shared between Zion and Maxwell, ther
Jennifer bowed her head silently, and whispered, "But Rachel lost her child. Don't you blame me for it?"Would Maxwell accept her child if he no longer blamed her?Maxwell fell silent, neither blaming nor forgiving her. After all, Jennifer still didn't know Rachel never went through the abortion. The doctor was about to begin the surgery when he rushed in. But he managed to take Rachel out before they could proceed. Now that Ben was on his side, he wouldn't tell on him to Robert. But Jennifer knew nothing about this.Maxwell was conflicted. Should he tell Jennifer the truth? But knowing Jennifer, if she knew Rachel was still pregnant with his child, she would never come back to him willingly.Jennifer's hope died away with Maxwell's silence. She wished he would tell her it was all water under the bridge and he didn't blame her. But he didn't.Indeed, the child Robert forcibly aborted was Maxwell's flesh and blood. How could he not be heartbroken or resent her? Jennifer smiled se
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