Jennifer suddenly grabbed Maxwell's hand and pleaded, "Can you help Laura? Simon is your friend, he'll surely listen to you."Maxwell didn't expect Jennifer to trust Laura so blindly. Usually, she would question and doubt him. But she would trust Laura unconditionally. Maxwell couldn't help feeling a little jealous. When would Jennifer stand by his side so firmly?"Why aren't you answering, Maxwell?" Jennifer grew anxious. "Can you help her? Didn't you see how scared Laura was of Simon? It pains me to see her bullied like this."Maxwell lowered his gaze. "I'm sorry. I've told you, I won't help the Scott family. I have no obligation or responsibility…"Jennifer said angrily. "Why are you so indifferent? You could clearly resolve this by speaking to Simon. Why do you insist on watching others suffer?"Maxwell frowned. "Yes, you know it's something I could resolve. But Jennifer, I won't be swayed by you. If you want to save your friend, you should do it yourself!"His words embarras
Jennifer mumbled to herself, "Even though Laura said it was consensual, anyone could see how reluctant she is around Simon. Since Maxwell isn't willing to help, can you think of a way to help her?"Zion was drenched in a cold sweat, feeling a chill down his spine as a bad feeling overwhelmed him.Noticing her father's pale expression, Jennifer asked worriedly, "Dad, what's wrong? You don't look so good.""It's… nothing," Zion quickly shook his head, but his heart was racing, and he couldn't calm down.He cautiously asked, "Does the Scott family's bankruptcy have anything to do with Mr. Moore? Did Laura tell you anything?""I don't know. Laura didn't say much to me." Jennifer was distressed. "She was in a terrible state today and even said she wanted to break off our friendship. I think she didn't want to drag me into it. But I guess it's because her dad is in prison, and she wants Simon to help with the case."Zion's mind was a mess. Simon's last name was "Moore," and the person
Jennifer was frustrated. She tossed her phone aside before she descended the stairs.Although it was only 8:00 am, Agnes was already awake, having finished breakfast an hour ago. At this moment, she was sitting on the couch, deep in thought.Seeing Jennifer come down, Agnes said disapprovingly, "There's been nothing but trouble ever since you came back. I don't understand. Since you're with Maxwell, why don't you stay at his place? Why do you keep coming back here every few days?" Jennifer was bewildered, "What did I do wrong this time?"After all, Agnes had always treated her this way. When she was needed, she was welcomed with a smile. But when she wasn't, she was treated like an enemy rather than a granddaughter.Agnes snorted. "Your father went out early this morning, troubled. He didn't even have breakfast. When you're not here, everything's fine. But as soon as you come back, your father gets upset. You're old enough now, can't you make things a little easier for us?"Jenn
"What do you think?" Simon's gaze sharpened. "How could I forget about my father's death? I was being kind by letting your family live peacefully for so many years."Zion asked nervously, "Tell me, what should I do for you to let Jennifer go? She and Laura are innocent. Harry and I deserve the punishment. Let us atone for our sins. Why do you make things difficult for these two girls?"Simon's expression darkened, and he narrowed his eyes. "Did I hear you right, Mr. Yale? Someone who caused a person's death and dares not admit it is talking to me about justice and morality. They are innocent, but what about me? I lost my father when I was ten. Did I deserve that?"He continued coldly, "You know what you need to do. But remember, Zion, you can never fully pay back your debt."…When Zion returned home, Jennifer immediately went over and greeted him."Where were you, Dad?" Noticing her father's ashen face, Jennifer asked worriedly, "Grandma said you went out early. Are you not feel
But what was wrong with Maxwell? He only mentioned choosing the photos but didn't say anything about her coming back. How was Jennifer supposed to bring up the idea of coming home if he doesn't talk about it?Jennifer bit her lip and awkwardly said, "There are so many photos, I can't decide on my own. Shouldn't we discuss it together?"Maxwell immediately caught on and chirped happily, "Shall I come and get you?""Yes." Jennifer hummed.After Jennifer hung up, Zion felt a sense of relief.He reminded her, "Don't be so stubborn when you go back. If the time is right, consider remarrying him. I have a good eye for people. Maxwell is a good man. At least, he's genuine in his feelings for you."Soon, Maxwell arrived at the Yale residence.Zion didn't even invite them to stay for dinner and sent them off right away. He just hoped Jennifer would have fewer ties with the Yale family to avoid Simon's retaliation.…Jennifer was quiet on their way home.Maxwell held her cold hand and
Jennifer's question ruined the harmonious atmosphere.Maxwell tightened his grip on the steering wheel. "I've told you, she and the child will remain abroad. I won't let them come back to disrupt your life. Jennifer, I'll only have you as my wife."Jennifer forced a bitter smile. What was she hoping for? Rachel's child was already so far along. How could Maxwell possibly abandon it? It was a living being after all.She swallowed her words. Maxwell, sensing the tension, sighed and didn't bring up the topic of remarrying again. Rachel remained an immovable barrier between them. He desperately hoped Jennifer could come to terms with it and accept reality, but it seemed she was still very resistant. Maybe only time could resolve this.Jennifer changed the topic. "By the way, I will be starting my hospital internship again tomorrow. I'm having an exam next month and need to focus on my studies and practice my skills."Maxwell asked, "Have you decided on a specialty?"Jennifer cautio
"But… But…" Jennifer stammered, her mind blank. She knew her baby would be in danger if Maxwell forced himself on her.She was on the verge of tears.Seeing this, Maxwell's heart sank, his voice tinged with disappointment. "Do you find me that repulsive? Have you ever really considered starting over with me?"Jennifer was pushed into a corner and had nothing to say. She remained silent, avoiding his stern and sharp gaze.Maxwell finally let her go and nodded, giving a self-mocking smile. "I understand now. But if that's the case, why did we even bother taking wedding photos? You're wasting your feelings and mine!"With that, he grabbed his coat and stormed out. The moment he left, the room's air seemed to freeze.Despite her heartache, Jennifer didn't regret her decision. She knew she couldn't accept Maxwell's proposal to share him with Rachel.Since that was the case, it was better to be upfront about it. After all, Robert had passed, and Maxwell had fully taken over Lance Corp
Maxwell spent another night at Lance Corporation and was in a terrible mood.He didn't know what to do about Jennifer. He couldn't bring himself to let her go. Yet, if he held on, Jennifer would never give herself to him again.Last night, he wasn't just angry at Jennifer but was mostly angry at himself. He didn't understand how he had let things reach such a deadlock. Why had he wronged both women at the same time?Just then, his secretary knocked on the door. "Mr. Lance, someone going by Mr. Yale is here to see you. Do you want to meet him?"Maxwell immediately thought of Zion. He asked the secretary to let him in.Zion entered, looking unwell and haggard.Maxwell asked the secretary to bring them tea and asked, "Why are you here today? What do you need?"Zion kept his head down, seemingly contemplating how to start.After a long pause, he finally said, "I want to ask you to take care of Jennifer in the future. I… entrust my daughter to you."Maxwell frowned worriedly. He pr
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