Even though the thorn in Jennifer's heart had taken root, she forced herself to ignore this matter. She mustered a weak smile and said, "Maxwell, it's good to have you here.""Really?" Maxwell kissed her forehead and gently uttered, "I'm sorry I forgot about your father's memorial today. We'll visit his grave tomorrow. As for the wedding, let's wait until you feel better, okay?"Jennifer's eyes filled with gratitude as she gazed at him. After all, he had always put her needs first.Maxwell saw the tears glistening in her eyes and smiled affectionately. "You silly girl. Don't overthink things by yourself. Just let me know if anything's wrong, and we'll handle it together.""I'm sorry. We were supposed to get our marriage certificate today, but I stood you up again," Jennifer apologized.Maxwell wrapped his arms around her, his tone somewhat suggestive as he replied, "You're right here with me. Do you think I'm worried you'll run away?"And just like that, with his reassurance, Jen
Consumed by fury, Agnes roared, "T-This can't be true! You're as wicked as Jennifer! One day, you'll face your retribution!"Maxwell's expression turned icy as he listened to her bitter curses. "Tear up those photos all you like. I've got hundreds, even thousands more. "If you want to protect the Yales' reputation and prevent everyone from seeing your granddaughter and daughter-in-law's humiliation, you'd better leave Jennifer alone. Otherwise, you'll regret it."Having said his piece, he strode away.Before long, Agnes' frantic shouting came from the house behind Maxwell. "Jocelyn! Bridget! Come out! What is this all about?"Maxwell's lips curled into a frosty smile. Since Agnes wanted to make life hard for Jennifer, he could easily make sure they suffered just as much.Meanwhile, Agnes' yelling in the living room caught Jocelyn's and Bridget's attention. They hurried downstairs, putting on a show of filial piety. "Grandma, what's wrong?" Bridget asked, "Are you thinking abou
"It's already past 10:00 pm. You should get some rest." Maxwell gently reminded Jennifer, "Pregnant women shouldn't stay up late, and I don't want to see you exhaust yourself."Only then did Jennifer realize how late it was. She rubbed her tired eyes, smiled at him, and said, "I'd like to study just a bit more. The exam is this weekend, and I've lost so much time with everything that's happened. I'm worried I won't pass.""If you fail, so be it," Maxwell replied, pinching her nose playfully. "Are you afraid that I won't be able to support you?"Jennifer pouted. "But I don't want to be a housewife whose life only revolves around my husband and kids. I have my dreams too.""I was just teasing you." Maxwell chuckled. "Of course, I know you have your dreams. I won't stop you from pursuing your career. I just don't want you to overwork yourself, especially now during your pregnancy. You need to rest well."Jennifer clasped her hands together in a pleading gesture and uttered softly,
Therefore, Maxwell immediately called Michael and instructed the latter to escort Rachel home.…When Michael arrived at Max Bar, Rachel was drinking. Her vision blurred, but the moment she saw him, she sobered up instantly.As Michael reached out to support her, Rachel shoved him away. "Why is it you? Get lost! Ask Maxwell to come and get me," she snarled.Michael had been fed up with her antics for a long time. If Rachel did not create drama every other day, he would not have to drag himself out of his warm bed late at night and brave the cold just to pick her up.So, he sneered, "Ms. Walker, I suggest you stop this nonsense. Mr. Lance won't meet you. To tell you the truth, he's about to get back together with his wife. Do you get it? They're getting remarried.""What?" Rachel was stunned. She staggered to her feet, grabbed Michael by the collar, and demanded through gritted teeth, "When? When are they remarrying?"Michael scoffed before answering, "It all depends on Mrs. La
After a long day of taking exams, Jennifer finally finished her last paper. She got back into the car, sank into the seat, and let out a long sigh of relief.Maxwell embraced her gently and asked, "You must be exhausted. What would you like for dinner tonight?""Aren't you going to ask how I did on the exams?" Jennifer countered with a grin.Maxwell playfully tapped on her nose, his tone brimming with tenderness as he replied, "My wife is a top student. I'm sure you'd handle the exams perfectly, so there's no need to ask."His words elicited a chuckle from Jennifer. "You're right. The exam went well. Most of the questions were things I'd already gone over."Maxwell's eyes sparkled with excitement as he held her hand. "Well, in that case, we can get our marriage certificate tomorrow, right, Mrs. Lance?"Jennifer's heart fluttered with excitement and joy, and she nodded vigorously while wrapping her arms around Maxwell's neck. It was clear that she was more eager than he was. "
With that, Maxwell and Jennifer headed to the City Hall after finishing their breakfast.Although Maxwell had arranged for a high-ranking official to greet them the day before and they could arrive at any time, Jennifer preferred not to cut the line. So, they showed up at the city hall at opening time, making them the first in line. Maxwell held Jennifer's hand, and they exchanged a smile. However, Michael came rushing in the second they stepped into the marriage license office. He was panting as he stood before Maxwell and called out, "Mr. Lance."Michael looked flustered while shooting a wary glance at Jennifer. He clearly did not know how to broach the subject. Sensing that something was wrong, Maxwell told Jennifer, "Wait here. I'll be back shortly."Jennifer assumed there was a company emergency. Hence, she nodded obediently. "Go ahead and take care of it."And so, Maxwell followed Michael to a quieter spot. The former was visibly displeased as he demanded, "What's wrong
A trace of disappointment flashed in Jennifer's eyes as she watched the couples before her walking into the marriage license office. She sighed softly and said to Michael, "Mr. Smith, please take me home."Only then did Michael relax. Little did anyone know, he had been sweating profusely. He was afraid that he might not be able to keep Maxwell's secret and that it could lead to a major family argument.…Michael dropped Jennifer off at the doorstep of the Lance residence and left. Noticing her return, Martha immediately went to greet her.Jennifer paused briefly and asked, "Martha, I thought you had the day off. Why didn't you leave?""Both you and Mr. Lance have been so good to me. How could I take advantage of your kindness?" Martha answered with a smile.She added, "Besides, there's nothing going on back in my hometown, so I took the opportunity to tidy up the nursery and air it out."A faint smile played on Jennifer's lips as she nodded. "Thank you for your hard work."M
At last, Jennifer got out of bed, put on her coat, and prepared to go to Lance Group to find Maxwell. Even if they did not get their marriage certificate, she felt more at ease just being by his side and watching him work.Jennifer could not help but feel a hint of self-deprecation. She realized she had become increasingly reliant on Maxwell. She could not bear to be apart from him for even a minute.With that, she hailed a taxi and headed to Lance Group.…While the higher-ups and the secretaries in the president's office knew Jennifer well, the receptionists rarely had the chance to meet her.Thus, the receptionist politely asked, "Miss, may I ask who you are here to see?""I'm looking for Maxwell. I'm his wife," Jennifer confidently introduced herself.The receptionist immediately responded with enthusiasm, "Oh, you're Mrs. Lance! But Mr. Lance isn't in today. Let me take you to the lounge where you can wait for him.""He didn't come to the office? Not even this morning?"
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