"You were still just a kid back then, and our father left you in her care. Then, one day, enemies came seeking revenge, and a shootout broke out. By the time our father returned from the battle, that woman claimed you had been taken by our enemies."As soon as Hugo finished speaking, Jennifer stared at him in shock. "Are you saying the Yales are your enemies and they took me away?" she asked, incredulous."No!" Hugo stressed each word carefully as he continued, "At first, I believed her story too. But one day, I snuck into her room while playing hide-and-seek with the housekeepers. "That's when I overheard her on the phone, telling someone to sell you off. On top of that, I was her next target. Furious, I shot out from under the bed. She never expected to find me there, and I saw the panic in her eyes. She was afraid I'd tell our father."Jennifer listened, her heart racing. With a trembling voice, she asked, "W-What happened next?""What happened next?" Hugo smiled self-deprecat
Jennifer hadn't expected Hugo to be so blunt. After thinking it over, she answered, "If Maxwell wasn't responsible for my father's death, oh… I mean Zion, I'd forgive him for the sake of my kids."Hugo pressed his lips together, considering her words in silence. Even though she claimed it was all for Caleb and Cassidy, he could see the truth.Deep down, Jennifer couldn't let go of Maxwell. Even without the children, she would've forgiven him. After a brief pause, Hugo asked, "What if… Maxwell really dies? What will you do then?"All he needed to know was how much did Maxwell mean to Jennifer. Only then could he figure out his next move. After all, Camila had torn their family apart for years, forcing his sister to grow up away from them.Thankfully, Jennifer had been adopted by a kind, loving couple. If someone cruel had taken her in, Hugo couldn't even bear to think what she might have gone through.Since Camila had dared to harm Jennifer, Hugo wanted her to watch as he destroy
At the mention of Rachel, Jennifer's expression hardened. After all, her brother had been involved with a woman like that, and they even had a child together. No matter how she thought about it, the whole situation made her uneasy.Still, the thought of Jasper softened her face with concern. "By the way, are you really not going to take responsibility for your son? He has a congenital heart condition and needs ongoing treatment. If you leave him to fend for himself, he could be in real danger."A shadow of something unspoken flickered across Hugo's face before his expression hardened into a grim resolve."A child raised by a woman like her? Who knows what he'll turn into? He could end up just as cruel as she was. Why would I invite that kind of trouble into my life? Bringing him in would only make things worse," he said firmly.Jennifer sighed and replied softly, "But Jasper's nothing like Rachel. He's a sweet boy, who's kind and innocent. You should at least go see him. He's your
Hugo wasn't accustomed to being teased like this, especially not by his subordinates. He kicked Shaun and snapped, "Get lost! I'm not gentle at all!"However, as soon as he arrived at Nimbus Lounge, one of his underlings rushed over. "Boss, someone took Samson! We suspect it was Maxwell's men!""What?" Hugo's anger flared instantly. "Is he out of his mind? I've let things slide with him, and now he has the nerve to kidnap my people?"…Meanwhile, at the hospital, Jennifer stepped into Maxwell's ward and was taken aback by the scene before her. A young man lay on the floor, rolling in pain. Moreover, he was bound and gagged.Maxwell's expression was dark and tense as he sat on the edge of the bed. "I'll ask you one last time. Where has Hugo taken Jennifer?" he demanded through clenched teeth.Jennifer had been missing for three days, and his worry had turned into desperation. While she had managed to call him earlier, he hadn't heard from her since."Stop!" Jennifer yelled.Maxw
Initially, Maxwell felt guilty for misunderstanding Hugo. But after hearing him yell at Jennifer just moments earlier, he couldn't shake the impression that Hugo was nothing short of a barbarian.It was clear that Jennifer hadn't been the one to bring Samson Holt in, so why did Hugo have to direct his anger at her?Jennifer knew Hugo's temper all too well and just wanted to defuse the situation. She turned to Maxwell, saying, "You need to send him back to Nimbus Lounge right away. I'll explain everything later. I promise, my brother isn't a bad person, and he hasn't hurt me."Maxwell hesitated for a moment, but he didn't want to make things harder for her. He shot Michael a glance, signaling him to take Samson back to Nimbus Lounge.Only then did Jennifer heave a sigh of relief. She glared at Maxwell and warned, "From now on, you're not allowed to go against my brother."Maxwell stared at her in surprise. He hadn't expected Jennifer—who just days ago had refused to even acknowledg
Maxwell was overwhelmed with joy upon hearing that. The implication in Jennifer's words was unmistakable. She had truly forgiven him.He held her hand, his voice trembling with emotion as he enunciated each word deliberately. "Jennifer, I promise I won't let you down again."Jennifer couldn't help but smile. "I hope you mean it. If you let me or the kids down again, I'll take them somewhere you'll never be able to find us. Go ahead, give it a try!""I won't! From now on, I'll trust you unconditionally. I'll never be a jerk again," Maxwell vowed.He berated himself, desperate to soothe her anger. He wanted Jennifer to let go of the past rather than keep it bottled up inside.Jennifer felt a pang of sympathy for him. She remembered just how far Rachel's malice had surpassed their comprehension. It wasn't just Maxwell who had fallen into her traps; she had been caught in them more than once, too."Alright, stop blaming yourself," she said, leaning into his embrace and exhaling softl
Even though Harry was the mastermind behind that incident, Simon had spared his life. So, why would it be any different with Zion?Maxwell stared at Jennifer sincerely. "This is the last time I'll say this. I don't know why your father took his own life back then. As for what Rachel said, we both know what kind of person she is. Don't tell me you're the type to confuse right and wrong and think I was the one who caused your father's death?"His honesty dispelled Jennifer's doubts."I'm glad it wasn't you." Jennifer's eyes watered, and she shook her head. "I've always hoped it wasn't you. Hearing you say it yourself puts my mind at ease. I believe you."Maxwell breathed a sigh of relief and pulled Jennifer into his arms. "That's good. Let's be open with each other and ask directly if we have any doubts. That way, we can avoid misunderstandings that only hurt us."Jennifer agreed. Being honest and voicing concerns was far better than bottling them up and letting them fester.The tw
Just then, the manager rushed over and apologized, "I'm sorry, boss. This girl is new here and clumsy. I'll fire her right away!"He then turned to Natalie. "You bumped into the boss. Even I can't help you now. Pack your things and leave!"Hugo's expression softened and he extended his hand toward Natalie. "Are you alright? I didn't realize you were a woman."He helped her up, putting on a gentlemanly facade. "Do you need a doctor?"Natalie looked at him in surprise. Was this man crazy? He had glared at her just a moment ago, and now he had completely changed his demeanor. It was rather creepy.Hugo maintained his authoritative air while softening his tone to avoid scaring her. "What's your name?"Natalie took a deep breath and muttered, "Natalie Lowe.""Natalie?" Hugo savored the name and smiled. "It's a beautiful name."Shaun, who was standing nearby, couldn't bear to watch. What was the boss talking about? He barely read any books, and now he's pretending to be a gentleman.
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