Maxwell was taken aback. "Why would I say that? Besides, you've been doing great! I even praised you."Jennifer smiled and turned to Camila. "Mom, did you hear that? Maxwell has no objections about my work. Moreover, you might have forgotten how your life came to be. If it weren't for my job, you wouldn't be standing here today, right?"Camila was speechless and pointed at Jennifer furiously. "You're taking advantage of Maxwell's love for you! I can't believe I still have to depend on others at my age. My life is so miserable!"With that, she rushed to her room in tears.Maxwell watched this scene with a headache. He had never worried about conflicts between his mother and Jennifer since he thought his mother would never return. Yet, just a few days after she came back, tensions had already arisen.He was relieved his mother and Jennifer had been getting along before. It seemed he had been too naive. Besides, it was clear his mother was being overly critical.Seeing Jennifer's so
"Thank you, Mrs. Lance. This is my job." Madison sweetly responded, "I can never repay the kindness you and Mr. Lance have shown me."Maxwell interjected, "Alright, Jennifer told you to study, so go and study. Don't linger here. I need to talk to her."Madison thought Maxwell was being considerate of her and blushed. "Thank you, Mr. Lance."With that, she left the kitchen.Maxwell frowned and muttered to Jennifer, "This girl keeps going on about gratitude. It's quite annoying."Jennifer rolled her eyes at him. "That's called being grateful. I think Madison is quite nice!"After eating, Maxwell said, "Go back to the bedroom while I check on Mom. By the way, your period... is over, right?"Jennifer caught on and blushed. "Do you really want a third child?"Maxwell chuckled softly. "There's nothing wrong with that. Besides, even if we don't want a third child, can't I still be close to my wife?"Jennifer blushed and quickly pushed him away. "Okay, go check on your mom."So, Maxw
"Mom, stop it!" Maxwell grew annoyed and firmly stated, "This marriage is something I owe Jennifer. We've been busy lately, which is why it's been delayed. We're planning to get married this weekend."He didn't want to deal with Camila's unreasonable behavior and left the room.He wondered if Jennifer was waiting anxiously.Maxwell hadn't been intimate with her for a few days and felt his desire grow. However, disappointment crossed his face when he entered the room.He saw Jennifer sitting with Madison, explaining the contents of a medical book to the young girl.Hearing his footsteps, Madison quickly stood up. "Mrs. Lance, I hope I'm not interrupting you and Mr. Lance?"Maxwell was about to say she was interrupting when Jennifer beat him to it. "No, don't overthink it. Do you have any more questions?"Madison stole a glance at Maxwell before turning to Jennifer. "Actually... I still have a few questions. If you and Mr. Lance are getting ready to rest, then forget it."Jennife
However, while Martha was suspicious, she had no evidence and didn't want to speak carelessly. She coldly warned Madison, "You should go back and rest. Don't keep hanging around the master bedroom."Madison nodded. "I understand."With that, she left with the book in hand.The next morning, Martha went to the master bedroom. Taking advantage of Maxwell's absence, she quietly told Jennifer about this matter. She said sternly, "Mrs. Lance, you must be cautious of Madison. Last night, I saw her standing at the door eavesdropping."Jennifer was in disbelief. "How... is that possible? Why would she do that?""That's why I find her strange." Martha sighed. "I've been with the Lance family for many years. Have you ever seen me gossip about anyone? But Madison was brought in by Mrs. Lance Senior, so you must be careful. Don't end up letting her backstab you."Jennifer trusted Martha, especially since Martha had always taken great care of her and treated her like a daughter. But what coul
Camila quickly grabbed Madison's hand and turned to Maxwell. "Oh, by the way, Madison's sister has a parent-teacher meeting today. "Can you believe it? She's still so young, and her parents just left Madison to take care of everything. Her sister's school is near your office, so why don't you give her a ride?"Madison kept her head down, staying silent. However, her heart raced with excitement. Finally, a chance to be alone with Maxwell. She wasn't going to let this slip away.Maxwell, however, didn't seem too thrilled. He frowned and replied, "She can take the subway. I've got a meeting at the branch office later, and I'm not heading to Lance Group. It's out of the way."Yet, Camila wasn't ready to back down. "The subway station is miles from here, and Haven City's lines are always packed. Come on, just give her a ride. Do me a favor, will you?"While they talked, Jennifer quietly observed Camila and Madison. Martha's warning from earlier that morning lingered in her mind, and s
However, thinking of Rachel, Jennifer decided to tread carefully. After all, Rachel had once come across as gentle and soft-spoken too. Yet, she had been capable of the most ruthless acts, all while wearing the sweetest smile."So, Madison, you're only 19, right? You haven't been in a relationship yet, have you?" Jennifer asked, as if striking up a casual conversation.The question caught Madison off guard. A wave of anxiety washed over her as she feared that Jennifer had picked up on something. She hurriedly replied, "No, I really don't have much dating experience. My family is struggling, and I've always focused on my studies, so I haven't thought about these things."Jennifer nodded in acknowledgment. "Well, it's about time you started thinking about it. It'd be a shame to go through university without ever being in a relationship. Some of the best kinds of love happen during school. By the way, is there anyone in your class you have a crush on?" she inquired with a smile.A
Jennifer and Maxwell exchanged playful banter all the way to the charity gala. Before long, they arrived at the venue.In the distance, Jennifer spotted a familiar figure. "Look, isn't that Laurie?" she exclaimed, her excitement evident as she tugged at Maxwell's hand.However, a thought crossed her mind when she saw Simon arriving alongside Laura. Her gaze grew dimmer, and she asked in a hushed tone, "What exactly is the relationship between Laurie and Simon now?"After all, she had regained her memories. She vividly recalled how that insufferable man had once brought Laura before her, subjecting her to cruel humiliation five years ago. Had Laura truly endured such treatment all this time?Maxwell sensed her unease and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "I can't say for sure what their relationship is, but Jennifer, today is an important occasion. Just try to stay calm."Taking a deep breath, Jennifer tried to compose herself. Yet, the thought of Laura spending so many years w
Simon glanced at Fiona, who was striding toward them. He then smiled calmly at the business partners he had been speaking with and uttered, "Excuse me for a moment."With that, he guided Laura to a secluded corner of the venue, somewhere they could speak without drawing too much attention.As expected, Fiona followed closely, her eyes burning with anger. "Why did you bring this bitch here?" she hissed.A wave of humiliation washed over Laura. At the same time, Simon turned to her, saying, "Why don't you wait for me over there?"She was eager to leave. If she stayed a moment longer, she feared she might lose her composure and confront Fiona then and there.Once Laura walked away, Fiona scoffed. "Why is she here? I specifically told you to bring Hailey. This was the perfect chance to introduce her as your fiancée.""She has surgery tonight and can't make it," Simon replied nonchalantly, swirling the champagne in his glass.Fiona's tone sharpened. "Even so, how could you bring some
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