Caleb's gaze sharpened. So, Jasper's mom was Jennifer's bully. And to think he used to mingle with Jasper. He wouldn't have befriended Jasper if he had known earlier!Cassidy noticed Caleb's strange behavior and quietly asked, "Cal, what's wrong? Why are you looking at Jasper like that?" Caleb didn't respond and just sat there, sulking.Just then, the teacher said, "Did everyone fill out the family information form yesterday? Caleb, as the monitor, please collect them for me."As the monitor, Caleb naturally went to collect the forms. However, he noticed a familiar name on Jasper's form."Jasper, your dad... is Maxwell Lance?" Caleb's eyes widened in disbelief. Wasn't Maxwell the name in the paternity test from Jennifer's drawer? So, Jasper's dad was also his dad?Caleb's heart pounded against his chest.Jasper looked at him in confusion and nodded. "Yes, he's my dad. What's wrong?"Caleb's expression turned sour. So, Jasper and his mom were the reason their dad abandoned Je
Maxwell hadn't seen Jasper in a while and immediately lifted him into his arms. Caleb tilted his head, looking longingly at his dad holding another child.Jasper then remembered Caleb and introduced him, "Dad, this is my classmate. He's a big fan of yours!"Maxwell turned his gaze to Caleb. His eyes were indifferent, as he was used to parents using their children to get close to the Lance family since Jasper started school. Maxwell even wondered if this classmate approached his son with ulterior motives.Caleb noticed Maxwell's cold gaze and his heart sank. However, he didn't let his disappointment show and chirped, "Hello, Mr. Lance! I'm Jasper's friend. You're as cool as Jasper says!"His innocent and sweet voice quickly earned Maxwell's favor. Maybe it was their blood connection or the innocence of a child, but Maxwell's prejudice vanished completely.Maxwell put Jasper down and observed Caleb, noting how familiar he looked. The thought quickly passed. He patted Caleb's head. "
Caleb beamed. "Okay, I'll tell my mom."…Meanwhile, Nathan had only picked up Cassidy."We don't need to wait for Cal today, Mr. Lowe." Cassidy followed the plan Caleb had taught her. "He's going to stay at a classmate's house for a few days."Nathan was curious. "Who? Why is he suddenly staying at a friend's house?"Cassidy grinned. "Oh, Cal is really popular, and all his classmates like him. He couldn't say no to their invitation!"Nathan was still concerned. "But who is it? Isn't it too sudden for Caleb to stay at someone's house?"Cassidy blinked. "You wouldn't know them even if I told you! Don't worry, their parents really like Cal. He's good at academics, and they even want him to help tutor their child.""Alright, I get it." Nathan laughed. "You smartypants! If I were that kid's parent, I would invite the adorable Cassidy over too."Cassidy quietly sighed with relief seeing that Nathan had fallen for her lie. Now it was all up to Caleb to bring their dad back!…Rach
"What?" Rachel was surprised. "He's staying with us?"Maxwell huffed. "This is my house. Don't I get to decide? Can't you be a little more tolerant of a child?"Rachel knew Maxwell well. It was difficult to persuade him once he made up his mind. Besides, it wasn't worth offending Maxwell over a child with their wedding approaching. She forced a smile. "Anything you say. I was just worried someone might use Jasper to get close to us. But if you think the child is fine, I'll take good care of him. I'll head to the kitchen and prepare dinner to welcome him."With that, Rachel headed to the kitchen, wanting to put on a good wife persona. However, just as she reached the kitchen, she overheard two maids talking."Did you see the little boy Mr. Jasper brought home? He's so cute! I could barely resist pinching his cheeks when I brought in the juice earlier.""He's polite too. Oh, did you notice how he resembles Mr. Lance?""Now that you mention it, I see the resemblance, especially th
Caleb feigned innocence. "Yes, my mom's name is Jennifer. Do you know her too?""I knew it!" Rachel narrowed her eyes and asked through gritted teeth, "Tell me, what did she send you here for?"Caleb tilted his head. "Why should I tell you? Besides, my mom didn't send me here.""Oh, really?" Rachel pulled out her phone. "Then I'll call Jennifer and ask her if she knows her son is at my house!"Caleb panicked. He had just started his quest to find his dad, and he couldn't let it end before it began. He quickly came up with a plan. "Miss, Mr. Lance is my dad, isn't he? If you dare snitch on me, I'll tell Mr. Lance he's my dad right now! And it seems like he doesn't know this yet!"Rachel paled. She wanted to strangle this shameless brat in front of her. He was just as cunning as Jennifer!She shook with anger and clutched her phone tightly. "Nonsense! How dare you act chummy with the Lance family? Who knows who your mom slept with to have you? I'll throw you out if you keep lying!"
Rachel couldn't believe how foolish her son was!She was about to defend herself when Maxwell snapped, "Are you saying your son is also accusing you? You said Caleb was lying. Tell me, why would a child frame you?""I..." Rachel was at a loss for words.She couldn't possibly admit that Caleb was Jennifer and Maxwell's child, sent here to get revenge on her.Her silence only made Maxwell more convinced of her guilt. He reprimanded her, "I never thought you would go so far as to harm a child! Rachel, I shouldn't have brought you back!""Maxwell, no! It's not like that." Rachel panicked, terrified that Maxwell would change his mind about their wedding.Just then, Caleb piped up, "Mr. Lance, please don't be mad at Miss. It's my fault for not being likable. Please don't argue because of me. I'll just go home."Caleb's pitiful demeanor tugged at Maxwell's heartstrings. He softened his tone. "You poor child, we aren't upset with you. You're Jasper's first friend, and we're happy to hav
Caleb said insincerely, "Wow, Miss! You're amazing! The food was delicious! I enjoyed every bite!"Rachel froze before forcing a smile. "I'm glad you like it."But she knew what Caleb was planning. He was trying to turn her into his personal cook!There was no way she was going to fall for it. After all, she was Maxwell's wife, not some bastard's nanny! So, Rachel didn't indulge him further.But Caleb wasn't in a hurry and continued to praise her.Because of his sweet words, Caleb quickly won over everyone on his first night there; everyone except for Rachel.Rachel couldn't show her disgust in front of Maxwell since she wanted to earn his favor. So she offered, "Maxwell, should I prepare a guest room for Caleb tonight?""Let him sleep with Jasper." Maxwell hummed. "Jasper has a bunk bed in his room. One can sleep on top, and the other can sleep on the bottom."Rachel forced a smile. "Alright, I'll go make the bed."As soon as she turned around, her smile dropped, and she bit
"What did you say?" Rachel looked at him in disbelief, then snapped, "Your dad's not here!"Unfortunately for her, Caleb didn't care. He quickly ran off to Maxwell's side.In the study, Maxwell had just finished his work and was getting ready to rest."Caleb, why aren't you asleep yet?" Maxwell picked him up. "Is it because it's your first night here and you're not used to it?"Caleb cautiously asked, "Can I sleep with you, Mr. Lance?"Maxwell was confused.Caleb quickly put on a pitiful expression and lowered his head. "My dad always slept with me at home. But he's been so busy with work that it's been a long time since he's done that. I'm jealous of Jasper because his dad gets to be with him. I... I want my dad to tell me stories too."Maxwell felt sorry for him. Caleb was too sensible for his age. And he couldn't bring himself to say no to Calbe cute yet pitiful face.He smiled. "Alright, I'll tell you a story after you wash up, okay?""Thank you, Mr. Lance!" Caleb smiled a
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