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
Maxwell nodded and asked, "So, are you only worrying because of Grandpa? Aren't you afraid that I might end up homeless and penniless one day?"Jennifer retorted angrily, "You had it coming! You've been moping around at home instead of going to the company! You're the one who gave up!"Seeing her upset, Maxwell decided to reveal some truth. "Have you ever heard of 'killing with kindness'? If they want to cause trouble, let them mess things up with Lance Group."Jennifer stared at him in a daze. Her confusion was utterly adorable.Maxwell suddenly turned to Martha. "Did you record everything like I asked you to?"Martha quickly handed him the camera. "Yes. The woman's tantrum and unreasonable behavior are all on tape!"Maxwell reviewed the footage with satisfaction.Jennifer finally understood. "So you were prepared for this? But the recording won't be enough to prove anything. They're accusing you of tampering with the will. Have you figured out how to clear yourself?""Why wou
Jennifer decided not to press further. She knew Maxwell must have tried his best to find his mother, but she might be deliberately hiding from him. Or perhaps she was no longer alive. Either scenario would shatter Maxwell's hopes and cause him great pain. After all, it would be even more heartbreaking if his mother intentionally avoided him for over 20 years.Maxwell read her mind and mumbled bitterly, "Maybe she's dead. Or maybe she started a new family. She might have even forgotten about me."Jennifer didn't know how to comfort him. Any words seemed pointless because she had not experienced what he had. All she could do was be there for him, letting him know she was by his side.After a while, Jennifer spoke gently, "I believe your mother still remembers you. Perhaps she was hurt too deeply by your father and didn't want to come back. Maybe she is thinking of you, watching over you from a place you can't see."Maxwell smiled and stroked her hair. "I'm not a child anymore. Are yo
If anything, Maxwell should have sided with Simon and helped with his revenge. However, since it involved Jennifer, Maxwell ultimately chose to support the Yale family.Simon was probably still angry with him. How could Maxwell look to him for help?So, he put on a nonchalant front. "There's plenty of lawyers in Haven City. We don't have to stick with Simon all the time. Let's find someone else!"Jennifer sensed something was amiss and asked, "Did you have a fight with Mr. Moore? You'd always looked for him whenever you needed a lawyer. So, why are you hiring another lawyer now?"Maxwell hid his surprise and smiled. "Why are you such a worrywart? This is between us men. Don't worry, Lorraine and Zachary are no threat to me!"Despite his words, Jennifer knew Zachary and Jordan had taken control of Lance Corporation. And with them suing Maxwell, they had to be hell-bent on forcing him to a dead end.Jennifer pondered for a moment and found an excuse. "I've been on leave for a few d
Just then, a group of executives emerged noisily from inside the president's office.They mumbled discontentedly, "He can't do anything himself and made the wrong decision. Why is he taking it out on us?""That's true! Those two are a bunch of morons! They can't hold a candle to Mr. Maxwell!" said another.After the executives walked away, Jennifer finally knocked on the door.Jordan swung open the door angrily. But when he saw Jennifer, his expression softened. "What brings you here, Jennifer?"Jennifer stared at him fearfully, as if she was seeing someone with a split personality. After all, his furious yelling still echoed in her mind.Jordan urged, "Come in; what would you like to drink? I'll have the secretary prepare it.""No need for that." After entering, Jennifer didn't sit down but got straight to the point. "I'm here to ask you to spare Maxwell."Jordan's smile turned sinister. "Oh, I thought you came because you'd finally figured things out. But you're here to ask m
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