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
Jennifer was delighted to hear this and said to Zion, "Dad, this means you can enjoy your retirement and not have to deal with company affairs."However, Agnes scoffed sarcastically. "If only things were that simple. Your father wouldn't even know his power was undermined if he was constantly absent from the company. What if Maxwell sucked Yale Corporation dry?"Jennifer couldn't help but feel annoyed. "Lance Group is a big company. Do you think Maxwell would be interested in a small company like ours?"For some reason, she just couldn't stand hearing others speak ill of Maxwell. She was the only one who could criticize him!Agnes didn't know how to retort to her. But since the Yale family was relying on Jennifer, she decided to let it go.Just then, Jennifer felt something warm in her pants as if her period was here. But how could she have her period when she was pregnant?Her heart dropped and she rushed to the bathroom, only to see bloodstains on her underwear. She was terrifi
Jennifer thanked the doctor, and an overwhelming sense of relief washed over her. After she left the doctor's office, she gently caressed her belly with a contented smile. She thought, "Thank you for not leaving me, my dear baby."Realization struck Quincy as she observed her. "Didn't you want to abort the child before? What's wrong? Did you have a change of heart? You looked nervous earlier, afraid that something might happen to the child."Jennifer smiled in embarrassment and muttered, "The longer I have this child, the more important they are to me. It's getting harder to say goodbye to them."Quincy gave her a pitied look. "But Maxwell still isn't aware of the child. He wouldn't have treated you like that if he knew. Besides, you can't hide it forever once your belly starts to show."Jennifer still couldn't bring herself to do it. She sighed. "Let's see as we go. I'm afraid he still resents me. After all, his first child died because of me, no matter how you look at it."Quinc
Jennifer met Jordan's gaze fearlessly. "Why did you come to see me today? If I'm not mistaken, you're also trying to use me, right? Don't you want to use me to bring down Maxwell?" Jordan's face fell, and he protested. "You should know my feelings for you by now! How can you misunderstand me? Jennifer, you're betting on the wrong horse if you're siding with Maxwell and making me your enemy! Maxwell can't even protect himself now. And you think he can protect you and Yale Corporation?"He blurted everything in his agitation.Jennifer's heart dropped and she pressed, "What do you mean by that? Why can't Maxwell protect himself?"Jordan took a deep breath. "Maxwell poured a lot of money into Yale Corporation even though they aren't worth a lot. Now the shareholders are all pissed and causing him trouble! They've decided to remove Maxwell from his position. Do you think he can still help you and your family?"Jennifer's mind buzzed. She had never imagined that Maxwell would get into
Jennifer screamed and ran to Maxwell as if he was her savior.Jordan's eyes were bloodshot and he raised his fist. "You're still so arrogant even now!"He was about to charge forward and return the punch when Jennifer suddenly shielded Maxwell with her body. Jordan's fist froze in the air.Jennifer closed her eyes but stood her ground, not budging an inch. She heard Maxwell's furious roar in her ears before he pulled her behind him."Are you crazy, Jennifer?" Maxwell yelled. "Who told you to interfere?"He didn't even want to imagine what would happen if Jordan's fist connected to Jennifer's face.Jordan's heart ached watching this. Were they acting like a loving couple in front of him? It didn't matter if he could beat Maxwell in a fight, he already lost.With that, Jordan lowered his fist and glared at them before storming off.Maxwell still had a grim look on his face. But when he met Jennifer's innocent and aggrieved gaze, his anger dissipated. He gently stroked her cheek a
"What's the point of having all this if I can't have you?" Maxwell hugged Jennifer and patted her back gently. "Don't be sad. The company's situation isn't as bad as Jordan made it out to be. Even if it is, I can handle it. Don't worry, okay?"Despite his reassurance, Jennifer could tell from Jordan's smug demeanor that Maxwell's troubles were far from small. She wondered how she could help Maxwell out of his predicament.Given the worsening tensions between Maxwell, Lorraine, and Jordan, the mother-and-son duo certainly wouldn't spare Maxwell if they gained control of Lance Group. And knowing Maxwell, he wouldn't be able to endure the humiliation.Just then, Maxwell's phone rang. He answered, and the butler's urgent voice came through. "Bad news, Mr. Lance! Please come to the hospital now! Mr. Lance Senior has fainted from anger.""What?" Maxwell's gaze sharpened and he rushed to Robert's ward with Jennifer.When they arrived, they found Lorraine and Zachary already waiting outsi
Zachary and Lorraine exchanged a look. They heard Robert had drawn up a will. With the limited time left, they needed to pressure Robert to amend the will, ensuring either Jordan or Zachary would take the position of Lance Group's president.The butler emerged. "Mr. Lance Senior wishes to see you, Mr. and Mrs. Lance."Zachary pulled Lorraine along, afraid that Robert might conspire with Maxwell. But the butler stopped them firmly. "Mr. Lance Senior specifically instructed to see only Mr. Maxwell and Ms. Jennifer. No one else is allowed in."Zachary stepped aside in frustration while Lorraine stomped her feet in anger, wishing Robert would hurry up and die.Maxwell and Jennifer entered the room to find Robert connected to an oxygen tank, his face pale and weary."You're here!" Robert smiled kindly. "Have a seat."Tears instantly welled up in Jennifer's eyes. She ran to his bedside and sobbed. "How are you feeling, Grandpa? I'm sorry, it's all my fault. It's because of my family th
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