The roses were vibrant and smelled nice. But Jennifer found them disgusting. She put on a smile and took the roses. She sniffed them and asked, "Why are you suddenly giving me these?"Maxwell leaned in and rested one hand on the table and the other on the armrest of her chair, trapping Jennifer within his embrace. He stared at Jennifer as his emotions went wild. He swallowed and said hoarsely, "I couldn't think of what kind of gift to give you, but I figured all women like flowers."Jennifer looked up at Maxwell's handsome face. "Mr. Lance, we're in public. Aren't you afraid someone might see us?""What's there to be afraid of?" Maxwell shrugged. "You're single, and so am I. If they see us, so be it. I told you before, I'll take responsibility for you."Jennifer sneered to herself. He hadn't taken responsibility when they were married, so why would he now? Her expression hardened. "Mr. Lance, I'm leaving if you keep this up!"Seeing her anger, Maxwell withdrew his hands and sat
With that, Jennifer stood up with her bag and prepared to leave. But Maxwell, having finally glimpsed a chance, wasn't about to let her go. He quickly grabbed her hand. "Why are you in such a hurry? I didn't say I wouldn't agree!"Jennifer stopped in her tracks and turned to him.After a moment of silence, Maxwell promised, "I'll give her a sum of money as compensation for giving birth to Jasper and won't meet with her again. But you have to promise me one thing. You have to accept Jasper, okay?"Jennifer didn't plan on going after Jasper. She just wanted to make Rachel and Maxwell's lives difficult. Besides, Jasper was a likable child. Since she had no intention of marrying Maxwell, agreeing to his terms would only further devastate Rachel, wouldn't it?Jennifer pretended to think it over before nodding. "I can accept the child, but I don't want that woman around me! You'll need to handle her thoroughly."Maxwell frowned. Despite his efforts to please Jennifer and win her back, w
Moreover, was Maxwell really planning to cut ties with her? They had a son together! How could he even think of doing that? Rachel had learned how ruthless a man could be. Besides their son, he could sever all other ties without hesitation.Of course, Rachel wouldn't accept the check. She swallowed her jealousy and rage and played the victim card. "You've already given me enough. I won't take any more of your money. I love you, and I'm willing to let you go. Maxwell, I can give my blessings to you. But Jennifer is up to no good. You can't let her deceive you!""Don't say another word against Jennifer!" Maxwell interrupted her. "If anyone is at fault, it's me. Jennifer wouldn't have spent five years abroad if I hadn't wavered between the two of you. I don't mind if she has ulterior motives!"Tears welled up in Rachel's eyes and she forced a bitter smile. "You'll realize that I'm not wrong one day."Maxwell didn't want to continue this discussion. He was certain that Jennifer would n
Jennifer nodded. "Leave it to me."After asking Martha for Jasper's room, she went upstairs alone. Maxwell worried Jasper might give her a hard time and didn't want her to go, but Jennifer was already heading up.When she reached the door, she knocked lightly. Jasper opened the door quickly. But when he saw who it was, he shouted, "Why is it you? Mom was right! You are the one who ruined our family! Dad left Mom because he wants to be with you!"Jennifer didn't get angry. She walked into the room and smiled at the furious child. She then leaned down, pulling him closer to her."So, you think I'm the bad person?" Jennifer tilted her head at him.Jasper huffed angrily, "Aren't you? I used to like you and even spoke up for you! But I never thought you were that kind of person!"Jennifer hummed. "If I were the bad person, would I have pulled you back from the brink of death? Do you remember when you were bedridden? Who was it that treated you and made you better?"Thinking about thi
Just a moment ago, Maxwell was worried that Jasper might give Jennifer a hard time. But to his surprise, Jennifer was able to calm Jasper down and make him behave.Maxwell breathed a sigh of relief at this. He walked up to his son and said teasingly, "What's this? You never listen to me. But now you're being obedient with this pretty lady?"Jasper glanced at Jennifer and said mysteriously to Maxwell, "I can't tell you that. It's a secret between me and Dr. Susan."Maxwell didn't think much of it, assuming that Jennifer had just played some harmless trick to entertain the child. He praised her, saying, "You're good at handling kids."Maxwell's gaze held not just affection but also a newfound respect.During dinner, Jasper kept giving Jennifer looks. Noticing this, Jennifer finally said, "You should let Jasper go to school. He's already five years old. He'll become a hermit if he stays cooped up at home like this."Realization struck Maxwell. "No wonder he's been so obedient to you
After dinner, Maxwell was hoping to have some alone time with Jennifer. However, Jasper grabbed her and took her to his room to ask her a bunch of questions. Jasper said he wanted to be a doctor when he grew up and even asked for Jennifer's stethoscope. Jennifer couldn't help but laugh at the request.The more she spent time with him, the more she found Jasper to be as lovable as her children, Cassidy and Caleb. Despite her resentment toward Rachel and Maxwell, she couldn't bring herself to dislike Jasper.By 9:00 pm, it was time for Jasper to go to bed. Because of his health, he always went to sleep early."Dr. Susan, could you tell me a bedtime story?" Jasper asked. His eyes glistened with tears as he choked, "No one has told me stories or tucked me in at night since my mom left."Jennifer felt pity for him and asked, "What about your dad?""My dad is busy with work. Sometimes he doesn't come home until after I'm already asleep." Jasper's voice was filled with sadness. "He say
"Mr. Lance, I should go now," said Jennifer. She held Maxwell at arm's length, just close enough to keep him yearning for more.But the push and pull was too much for Maxwell. In a sudden move, he leaned in, cupped her head, and brought her closer. He savored the unique sweetness of her, but out of his sight, Jennifer frowned in dismay.To Maxwell, this seemed to be the only way to show how much he missed her and how badly he wanted her back.However, Jennifer's detachment and avoidance were real. She didn't return his kiss, merely enduring it.After what seemed like an eternity, Maxwell finally let her go, and they were both left breathless. Though Jennifer kept reminding herself this was just a way to get back at him and that she was only tolerating it, her heart still raced uncontrollably. She couldn't even bring herself to meet his gaze.Maxwell reached out, his fingers gently brushing through her hair. "Jennifer, do you still love me?" he asked in a hoarse voice. Jennifer
Having said that, Jennifer hurriedly got into her car without waiting for Maxwell's response. Once inside, she could still feel her heart racing. That was a close call! Did her expression give anything away? She hoped Maxwell hadn't noticed.Because of that incident, Jennifer ended up being late to work that morning. She even missed the introduction of a new colleague during the morning meeting. She had planned to introduce herself later. But to Jennifer's surprise, the young, attractive doctor who seemed about her age, approached her. "Hello, Dr. Susan. I'm Dr. Hailey Brooks," Hailey said confidently as she extended her hand. "I joined the cardiac surgery department because of you, but I'm confident I'll outshine you in the future."Jennifer was momentarily stunned. Who would introduce themselves like that? Wasn't this a blatant provocation? Despite the audacity, Jennifer responded with grace. She shook Hailey's hand and replied, "I've read your articles in several prestigio
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