Michael sneered. "Mr. Lance has already left. Ms. Walker, I advise you to save your efforts! Mr. Lance and his wife have an unbreakable bond. What good is risking your life? Don't overestimate yourself!"Michael's words were like a sharp knife, piercing Rachel's heart and tearing apart all her facade and pride.How could she take it? How could she allow an assistant to trample all over her?Back when Maxwell was doting on her, Michael was always following her around, trying to please her. This should be her life yet Jennifer stole it from her.Rachel yelled at him, "Get out! I don't need you here! Out!"Michael snorted, cursing Rachel for being ungrateful and overstepping her boundaries. If it weren't for Maxwell's orders, he wouldn't want to be here watching over her! He would prefer to spend this time at home with his wife!With that, he went out and instructed the bodyguards at the door, "Keep watch here. I'm leaving. Report to me if anything happens!"After Michael entered t
Rachel looked at Hugo in fear, terrified that he might tighten his hold around her neck. Hugo was crazy and would do anything!She asked, "Since you fed Bridget and her mom to the fish, what about Jennifer? What happened to her?"Hugo narrowed his eyes dangerously and said through gritted teeth, "Of course, I let her go! Remember this, don't mess with Jennifer again, or I'll kill you!"Rachel's eyes widened in disbelief.What did Hugo say? He would kill her for Jennifer!Rachel dropped her facade and cried, "Are you crazy? I risked my life to give birth to your child, and you want to kill me for that bitch! Do you know how much work I did to trap Jennifer? But you ruined all my plans and made my efforts in vain!"A murderous look crossed Hugo's gaze. He wrapped his fingers around her neck and tightened them slightly, "I'll say it again, don't even think about messing with Jennifer again! Do you hear me?"Rachel gasped for air. It wasn't until she almost lost consciousness that H
That man must be plotting something!Just then, Martha knocked on the door. "Mrs. Lance, dinner is ready."Jennifer quickly asked, "Is Maxwell back?""Mr. Lance said he has a business dinner, and you should eat without waiting for him," Martha informed.Jennifer's gaze darkened at her words. She went to the dining table sadly and started eating absentmindedly. Her mind was filled with reminders that Rachel had given birth to Maxwell's child. Maybe the three of them were enjoying their time as a family right now.Jennifer felt like a fool.Maxwell had just arrived home when Jennifer was done showering. He was reeking of alcohol and looked tipsy. Jennifer realized she had misunderstood him. He really was out meeting a client that night."I'll run the water for you, you should take a bath first," Jennifer said nothing about Rachel, going to the bathroom to run the bath for him.But Maxwell suddenly embraced her from behind. His hands wrapped around her waist, and he bent down to b
Why? Why was Maxwell always treating her like a fool, deceiving her, and toying with her feelings? Why did he always pull her to the deep end before leaving her abruptly, letting her suffer alone?At the thought, Jennifer put on her coat and followed Maxwell out.Seeing her going out so late, Martha quickly said, "Where are you going, Mrs. Lance? It's already 9:00 pm."Jennifer hummed. "I have something to attend to."Martha said worriedly, "Mr. Lance just left and took the driver. Are you planning to drive yourself?""It's fine, I'll drive myself." Before Martha could say anything, Jennifer hurried into the garage.…Thus, Jennifer followed Maxwell's car from a distance, arriving at a private hospital.Jennifer gripped the steering wheel tightly, waiting for Maxwell to go inside before she got out of the car and followed him in.Rachel's hospital room was the most expensive VIP room here. It was spacious for a hospital room, and several nurses took turns taking care of her.
"Let me explain, Jennifer." Maxwell panicked. He stepped forward and grabbed Jennifer's hand. "It was an emergency. Rachel almost died."Jennifer broke free from him, tears glistening in her eyes. "It's always the same excuse! What about me? How long were you planning to lie to me?"Maxwell held her hand again. "Let's talk at home. Believe me. I didn't mean to lie."Rachel was delighted with how things turned out. This was great! Why should Jennifer live a good life while she can't? She wouldn't let Jennifer get what she couldn't have.So, Rachel put on an act of smoothing things over. "You misunderstood, Ms. Yale. Maxwell was telling the truth."Just as she reached out to Jennifer, the latter dodged her in disgust. "Don't touch me! You're repulsive!""Ouch!" Rachel screamed as she fell to the ground. She immediately shielded her belly. "It hurts…"Maxwell bent down to help her up nervously. "Are you okay?""I think the wound reopened…" Rachel sat on the ground and leaned again
In the end, Jennifer called Nathan.Nathan was shocked to receive her call. After hearing her story, he nervously instructed, "Just stay where you are and send me your location. I'll come to you."…Back at Rachel's hospital room, the doctor had done a checkup and confirmed her wounds had reopened.Maxwell stared at the blood-stained gauze and mumbled, "I apologize on behalf of Jennifer. She didn't mean it."Rachel acted like a victim. "It's okay. This wasn't the first time. I'm used to it."Her words only added to Maxwell's guilt. After all, Jennifer had always been kind and gentle to those around her. She was only defensive and violent toward Rachel.After a moment of silence, Maxwell finally made up his mind. "This is the last time we will meet, Rachel. Take it as a goodbye. Get well soon. Once you do, I'll have Michael arrange a gateway for you and your son. Maybe I really am a curse to you. I'm sorry."Rachel's gaze dimmed but she didn't stop him. "Do you want to see our b
Jennifer said nervously, "Mr. Lowe, I... I've always regarded you as a teacher. I respect you a lot."Nathan smiled. "It doesn't affect your respect for me even if you see me as something else, right?"Jennifer was rendered speechless by his words.Nathan looked at her seriously. "Jennifer, I believe people could have more than one type of relationship, don't you agree?"Jennifer feigned ignorance and smiled. "You're right, Mr. Lowe."Nathan knew Jennifer didn't want to overstep their boundaries. So, he didn't clarify, not only to avoid scaring her but also because it felt like taking advantage of her vulnerability at this time.After all, he had just brought Jennifer back from Glory Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. This was proof enough that Jennifer had met Rachel and Maxwell. Otherwise, she wouldn't have gotten so emotional and upset the baby.He gently said to Jennifer, "You don't have to mind what I said earlier. The doctor said you need to rest well. Just sleep. I'll st
Just then, Jennifer suddenly walked up to them and pushed Maxwell away forcefully.Maxwell was stunned by the hatred in Jennifer's eyes.Nathan was also surprised and asked with concern, "Why did you come out? And without a coat?""I was worried..." Jennifer frowned at him, all her helplessness reflected in her silence.Nathan said, "Jennifer, go inside. This is a matter between men. Wait for me inside, I'll be back soon."Maxwell's anger flared at the sight. He watched helplessly as Jennifer showed concern for another man and drifted further away from him.Maxwell rushed over and grabbed her hand. "Come home with me."Seeing that Maxwell wanted to use force, Nathan immediately stopped him. "Didn't you hear what Jennifer just said? She already said she doesn't want to go back with you!"Maxwell's gaze bore into Jennifer. "I want to hear it from you!"Jennifer's gaze was filled with pain as she trembled. "Yes, Maxwell, I don't want to go back to you anymore. Let's break up! Ple
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