Jennifer stood frozen in place. It felt like her soul had left her body."This is all your fault!" Suddenly, Natalie rushed over and slapped her.She screamed, "Why? Jennifer, what did our family ever owe you? My brother loved you so much, how could you treat him like this? You should be the one to die! Why wasn't it you who died?"Jennifer stood still, letting Natalie hit her. Tears rolled down her cheeks as a bitter smile tugged at her lips.She muttered, "I wondered the same thing. Why wasn't it me who died?""Stop pretending! If you really mean it, then die! Die with my brother right now!" Natalie dragged her and threw her beside Nathan's hospital bed.Jennifer didn't even dare to lift the white sheet. She said to Natalie, "Dr. Lowe died protecting me. It should've been me."If Nathan hadn't shielded her at the last moment, it would have been her lying there now. But even though he was drunk, why would he still make such a choice?Natalie cried bitterly. "What did my brothe
Maxwell listened to the muffled sobs coming from the room, his heart aching. He called Michael and quietly instructed, "Send some people to check on Nathan's family for the next few days. Make sure they get all the help they need. And, have you found Rachel yet?"Michael panted. "I'm currently at Nimbus Lounge with the team. The last surveillance footage shows Rachel being taken here. We're negotiating with them, and the police have been notified."A flicker of murderous intent appeared in Maxwell's eyes. "You must find that woman! Have you identified the owner of the car that hit Jennifer?"Michael sighed. "That guy isn't an amateur. It seems he's done this kind of thing before. After the incident, the last footage shows him heading to the docks. He's probably already out of the country."Maxwell gripped his phone tightly in frustration. Just how many more secrets was Rachel hiding from him?"Keep an eye on Nimbus Lounge. The moment you spot Rachel, capture her immediately." Afte
Jennifer remembered a book she once read. It said a woman would remember the man who made her laugh, and a man would remember the woman who made him cry. But often, a woman ended up staying with the man who made her cry, while a man stayed with the woman who made him laugh.Back then, Jennifer hadn't even graduated high school, and she scoffed at the idea, never imagining that she would one day become the woman described in the book. But in the end, the man who made her laugh was gone. And it was all because of her.Jennifer couldn't forgive herself. It seemed as if only by stripping herself of her basic needs could she find some relief from the pain in her heart.Maxwell hadn't slept either. He worriedly watched Jennifer, knowing that if she continued, her body would eventually collapse.At dawn, Michael arrived with dark circles under his eyes. "Mr. Lance, the police searched Nimbus Lounge with us all night, but Rachel wasn't there. She's good at hiding. They've issued a warrant
Jennifer didn't back then. She didn't even care that the children were still there. "This was Rachel's doing, wasn't it? Maxwell, if it weren't for you keeping that woman around, Dr. Lowe wouldn't have died! You and Rachel killed him!"Maxwell looked at her in shock but couldn't refute her words.Cassidy cried, terrified of Jennifer's near-mad state. Caleb followed suit and sobbed, "Mommy, what's wrong? Don't scare us! Don't leave us, Mommy!""Get out! Stop calling me that!" Jennifer's eyes were filled with hatred as she pointed toward the door. "Maxwell Lance, take your children and get out! Don't ever appear in front of me again."Maxwell couldn't believe what he was hearing. Jennifer loved her children so dearly. Yet now she was saying she didn't want them anymore.It was then that Maxwell realized the impact of Nathan's death on Jennifer was far deeper than he had imagined. Although he understood her anger, he felt heartbroken for the two innocent children. So, Maxwell quickly
Maxwell finally breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing Jennifer eating, he agreed to take her to the funeral.It was the first time in days that Jennifer had cleaned herself up. She wore a black coat, which made her appear even more frail.The weather outside was gloomy, matching the somber atmosphere with a dark sky.Maxwell drove them to the cemetery, where the green lawn was filled with Nathan's family members and his close friends and colleagues.But Jennifer stood far away, unable to bring herself to approach, afraid of disrupting the solemn scene.It wasn't until Nathan's family finished paying their respects and left that Jennifer slowly approached the tombstone.Maxwell didn't follow her. He stood where he was, knowing he had caused this and had no right to face Nathan.Jennifer fell to her knees before the tombstone and touched the photograph on it. "Dr. Lowe… No, Nathan. You always liked it when I called you by your first name. Are you… cold over there? It's my fault. I… I
"I won't leave!" Rachel glared at Shaun. "How can I leave when I haven't seen Jennifer die?"Shaun lost his patience and said sternly, "Ms. Walker, my men and I can no longer help you. Even if the boss were awake, he wouldn't agree to this. You need to calm down!"With that, he left Rachel's room.Rachel shouted after him, "Come back!"Who else could she rely on if even Shaun refused to help her?…After returning from Nathan's funeral, Jennifer remained depressed. She spent her days on the bed, doing nothing.Maxwell had no choice but to call Laura to help persuade Jennifer. When Jennifer saw Laura, she finally forced a weak smile. "You're here.""Jennifer..." Laura felt heartbroken seeing how thin Jennifer had become. "How did you let yourself get like this? It's only been a few days. How could such a thing happen?"Jennifer finally broke down. "Dr. Lowe is dead. I caused his death!"Maxwell had explained the whole situation to Laura on the way there. Hearing Jennifer blame
Laura's words struck Jennifer hard. Jennifer knew it too. But she couldn't bring herself to do it. Every time she thought of Nathan, who sacrificed himself for her, she couldn't bring herself to continue living.Despite Laura's persuasion, Jennifer barely reacted. She remained disheartened, unable to cheer up.After leaving the hospital room, Laura glared at Maxwell. "I'll stay and take care of her. You should leave. Right now, the people she hates most are you and Rachel. No matter what, Dr. Lowe's death is tied to both of you."Maxwell frowned at her request for him to leave. "Are you sure Simon will let you stay away for this long?"Laura grew visibly embarrassed. She knew all of Simon's friends looked down on her because they knew about her relationship with him. That was why Maxwell used Simon to pressure her.As they spoke, Simon's call came through. He was asking her to accompany him to golf with a business partner. Of course, Laura didn't want to go, but she had no choice
Jennifer's words pierced Maxwell's heart.His eyes filled with sorrow and he smiled bitterly. "It's fine. It's okay if you don't forgive me. Just take care of yourself and don't take your anger out on Cassidy and Caleb. They used to think they had no father, but now that they finally have one, would you really let them lose their mother? What did those two children do to deserve this?"These words filled Jennifer with guilt. Yes, what did those two children do wrong? Was it simply because they had Maxwell's blood flowing through their veins?Even so, Jennifer still couldn't get over her struggle. Every time she saw Maxwell and the children, she felt as though she was betraying Nathan.Just then, there was a gentle knock on the door.Maxwell thought it was the nurse coming to change the IV, so he went to open the door, only to find Frida standing there."You... Why are you here?" Maxwell was surprised. Was Frida here to get revenge on Jennifer? He nervously asked, "Is something wr
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