Lorraine felt there was nothing to fear from Maxwell now. After all, Lance Group was currently under Zachary and Jordan's control. However, she couldn't help but shiver when facing his fierce gaze. She shot Maxwell a glare but didn't say anything more.Just then, the doctor called for the family to come to the office. Since Robert was nearing the end of his life, the doctor needed to prepare the family so they wouldn't be overwhelmed or caught off guard.Maxwell and Zachary went to see the doctor, leaving Jennifer alone with Robert. Just then, footsteps sounded at the door–it was Jordan.Jennifer gave him a cold look. "They all went to see the doctor. You should go too. I'll watch over Grandpa.""I came here for you." Jordan approached her. "I have something to tell you."Jennifer replied coldly, "I have nothing to say to you. This is Grandpa's ward, so you'd better watch your tongue."Jordan's gaze fell on the diamond ring on her left ring finger. His eyes narrowed and he grabbe
Jennifer paled, and her heart sank. The ring on her finger felt like a tightening shackle, burning and hurting her.Seeing her reaction, Jordan knew he had achieved his desired effect. He softened his tone and feigned gentleness. "Now you understand, right? Maxwell merely wants to use you to gain favor with Grandpa. If he genuinely cared for you, why would he keep Rachel abroad, accompany her to every prenatal checkup, and spend a fortune treating her leg? And you? You're just a puppet on a string to him!"Jennifer never imagined that Rachel's child was still alive. She also never thought that Maxwell, who treated her so well, was treating Rachel the same way. She was being eaten by guilt, afraid that Maxwell would resent her over what happened to Rachel.Jennifer laughed self-deprecatingly. So, it was all a lie! Why was fate so cruel? It gave her everything, making her believe she had reached the pinnacle of happiness, only to burst her bubbles and leave her falling from grace head
But none of this mattered anymore. Jennifer was just relieved she hadn't told Maxwell about her pregnancy. Otherwise, things would have only gotten more complicated.Seeing her silence, Maxwell questioned, "Have you gone mute? Why aren't you answering? What exactly did you two talk about that made you disregard Grandpa's safety?"Jennifer lowered her gaze. "He told me Rachel's child is still alive."Maxwell's expression changed instantly. He was no longer aggressive but rather flustered and at a loss.Jennifer smirked at him. "Are you satisfied now?"Maxwell felt a lump in his throat. He wanted to explain, but any explanation seemed pointless.Suddenly, cries erupted from the direction of the hospital ward, and Maxwell and Jennifer rushed to the ward.The doctor had already announced Grandpa Robert's time of death. Lorraine and Zachary wept as they covered Robert with a white sheet.Maxwell stood there stiffly, watching the white cloth slowly cover Robert's lifeless face. He c
Nathan ignored Maxwell. After paying his respects to Robert, he approached Jennifer."You're here, Dr. Lowe." Jennifer stood up and thanked him for coming over.Looking at the pale and noticeably thinner Jennifer, Nathan's heart ached. He gazed at her. "My condolences. I'm waiting for your return.""Thank you, Dr. Lowe," Jennifer replied weakly, her sorrow evident in her voiceNathan was surprised. After all, Robert was not Jennifer's biological grandfather, yet she was showing filial piety. His admiration for Jennifer seemed to grow even stronger.Just then, Maxwell approached them. He said coldly, "As you can see, Dr. Lowe, our family has a lot to handle right now. Many matters need our attention so I won't be keeping you. Michael, please see him out!"And so, Nathan was forcefully escorted out by Maxwell.Maxwell gave Jennifer a stern look and warned, "Don't forget your promise to Grandpa, Jennifer. You'd better behave yourself at his funeral."Jennifer felt wronged. She and
When dinner time came around, Jennifer went downstairs on schedule. She wasn't just responsible for herself now. There was now a baby she had to take care of. She didn't mind starving, but the baby couldn't.Martha noticed her increased appetite and poured her another bowl of soup. But when Jennifer saw the layer of fat on it, she felt nauseous again. She clutched her chest and ran to the trash can to dry heave.Martha was startled. "Is the food I made not to your liking, Mrs. Lance?"Jennifer rinsed her mouth. "It's not your fault, Martha."Martha suddenly thought of something and probed, "Are you pregnant, Mrs. Lance?"Jennifer's expression shifted and she mumbled irritably, "Don't talk nonsense. We've been divorced for so long. How could that be possible?"Martha had never seen this side of Jennifer and agreed awkwardly, "Yes, I must be getting old."Jennifer sighed. She glanced at the empty seat across her and asked, "How long has it been since he last ate?""Sigh. Mr. Lanc
Jennifer's heart tightened. She knew they couldn't reconcile. But she had promised Robert to protect Maxwell and not let anyone harm him. Even if she wanted to leave, she would wait until Maxwell had sorted out the situation with Lance Group and found his footing.Jennifer smiled. "Rachel's child is also your child. It's natural not to wish to kill your flesh and blood. And I will keep my promise and stay with you through this difficult time."Maxwell's heart warmed and he pulled her into his embrace. He mumbled, "Jennifer, I'm not sure if you know this, but you've grown soft."Jennifer used to be a rose with thorns. But now, she seemed to have shed them away. But Jennifer knew that wasn't the case, that she was left with no other choice.There were many things beyond her control, and she could only accept them reluctantly.After Maxwell ate, they went to bed early. After many busy days, lying together gave them a sense of security, allowing them to finally fall asleep.The next
Lorraine was on the couch with her legs crossed, looking as if she was there to settle a score. "Hmph! You're finally here! I thought you were too guilty to even face me!"Jennifer wanted to argue with her, but Maxwell held her hand tightly and stopped her. He calmly descended the stairs and gave the maid a weird smile. "What's this? Ms. Young has been here shouting all morning. Why haven't you served her a cup of tea?"Lorraine froze and Jennifer looked at Maxwell in disbelief.Had he gone mad? Usually, Maxwell wouldn't even bother with Lorraine. So, why was he being polite with her now?Lorraine retorted, "Don't think I don't know what you're up to. You must be plotting something! Did you poison the tea? Are you trying to kill me?"Maxwell chuckled. "Poison you in my own house? That would be foolish of me. But now that Grandpa is gone, I must take care of you on his behalf, Ms. Young."Lorraine narrowed her eyes. What was with Maxwell's change of attitude? Was he trying to curr
"You!" Lorraine rushed forward. "As your elder, I'll teach you some manners today!"However, Maxwell grabbed her wrist before her slap could land. She glared at him nervously. "What… What are you doing? Are you going to hit me?""I don't hit women. But I won't tolerate anyone being unruly in my home! No one is allowed to land their hands on my woman!" He pushed her away with a dark look.But Lorraine was not one to back down. Maxwell had always oppressed her since Robert protected him. Now that her husband and son controlled Lance Group, why should she endure Maxwell's disdain?"I advise you to be sensible and apologize to me on behalf of that brat, Maxwell! Also, you clearly tampered with Grandpa's will. There's no reason he wouldn't leave some assets to your father. Zachary is his only child. These assets should belong to him instead!" Lorraine sneered. "If you comply, you might still get some dividends from Lance Group in the future. But if we take this to court, I guarantee you
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