"Thank you, kind miss! It's rare to find a good teacher like you!" Herta was incredibly grateful. She added, "By the way, how is Madison doing at school? She hasn't been causing you any trouble, has she?"Jennifer hesitated. She watched as Maya started cooking after returning home. The young girl was likely malnourished and barely taller than the stove. Jennifer glanced at Herta, who appeared to be only in her 40s yet her hair was streaked with white and face worn with age.For a moment, Jennifer found herself at a loss for words. Sensing her silence, Herta continued, "Madison has always been a good student. If only she hadn't been born into our family. Someone as talented as her shouldn't have to work as a maid. It's such a shame. I divorced her father long ago, and with me being blind, she had to take care of her sister and me from a young age. Thankfully, she met a kind teacher willing to sponsor her education. I... I don't know how to thank you enough."By the end, Herta was s
Jennifer quickly stopped Maxwell. "I haven't finished! I went to Madison's house earlier. Initially, I was thinking the same as you. I wanted her to regret everything and face the consequences. But when I got to her home and saw her blind mother and her innocent younger sister, I…"Maxwell finished her sentence. "You pitied her."Jennifer sighed and nodded. "Madison's mother and sister are really pitiful. How will they survive if she ends up in prison?"Maxwell snorted. "How could a mother like that raise such a devious and greedy daughter!""Madison's parents divorced when she was very young. Her mother is blind, has no job, and no education. How could she raise her properly?" Jennifer said softly. "I think Madison has learned her lesson through this. I don't plan to press charges further, but I'm not going to let her get off that easily either."Maxwell shook his head and pulled her into his arms. "I'm not sure whether I should be relieved or worried. You're too kind. Won't that
Hugo didn't expect Jennifer to proudly introduce him instead of hiding him away. He was pleased by this and said to Jennifer, "Oh, I ordered some sweets for your colleagues." He turned to the others. "It's my sister's birthday today, and I would like to thank everyone for taking care of her! Please continue to treat her well!"Jennifer was stunned. Was it her birthday today? Her colleagues were envious, seeing that Jennifer had a loving husband and now a doting brother as well.Hugo quickly won over her colleagues. Jennifer hurriedly pulled him aside. She whispered, "What are you talking about? My birthday is still a long way off!""Today is your birthday!" Hugo said firmly. "You're my sister. How could I forget your birthday? The truth is, your last 28 birthdays were celebrated on the wrong day. Starting this year, you'll celebrate it on the right day."Realization dawned on Jennifer. Her previous birthdays were likely celebrated on the day her parents adopted her, but today was
Each diamond was of the highest quality, and even their sizes were uniform. Jennifer was moved by Maxwell's thoughtfulness. Just as the two were about to embrace, they were interrupted by Hugo's cough."Alright, that's enough! Cass and Cal are here. Please keep this kid-friendly!" Hugo scooped up Cassidy and playfully pinched her cheek. "Isn't that right, Cass?"Cassidy shook her head. "No! Mommy and Daddy often play the kissing game at home, and my brother and I have seen it many times."Jennifer blushed at this, and even Maxwell wanted to find a hole to crawl into. When had the kids seen that?Maxwell quickly changed the subject. "Let's move on to the next part!"Hugo scoffed. He couldn't stand these gentlemen. What was there to be embarrassed about?As the music started, a waiter brought out the cake.Cassidy clapped her hands in glee. "Mommy, Daddy made this cake for you himself! I helped too. I made the little flowers on top! Aren't they pretty?""They're beautiful." Jenni
"Why did you two suddenly start fighting?" Jennifer looked at the injuries on their faces, her heart aching. These were the two people she cared about most. Why were they hurting each other? Was their peace just a facade?Hugo stood off to the side with a dark look but said nothing. Maxwell's expression was equally grim. He grabbed Jennifer's hand. "Let's go. Cass, Cal, come on!""Stop!" Hugo shouted. "You can leave! But Jennifer and the kids aren't going anywhere!"Maxwell laughed. "Do you think I'll listen to you? If it weren't for Jennifer, I would've made sure you couldn't survive in Haven City long ago! You'd better keep that in mind and stop provoking me!"Hugo sneered. "Looks like you've chosen to side with that old hag! If that's the case, be her filial son, but stay away from my sister! Yes, Haven City is your turf, but don't think I'm a pushover! If push comes to shove, I'll make sure we both go down!""Enough! Both of you!" Jennifer cried. "Today is my birthday. Is this
Jennifer froze after hearing Hugo's words. It felt as if her soul had left her body. A few seconds later, she forced a bitter smile. "No, it can't be true. That's impossible!""Why not?" Hugo retorted. "If it weren't for you being hopelessly in love with Maxwell, I would've dealt with that old hag long ago! Do you think I'd wait until now? Wake up! Your husband and that old hag are family. Look! He'll abandon you without a second thought in the end!"Maxwell shouted, "Hugo, shut up! When did I ever say I would abandon Jennifer? Stop trying to stir up trouble and ruin our marriage!"He then walked to Jennifer. "Trust me. This is an issue between my mother, your brother, and me. You don't need to worry about it. Jennifer, I will never hurt you. I'll protect you."Jennifer felt her strength give out and sighed tiredly. Tears streamed down her face as she shook her head. "No wonder she disliked me and wanted to replace me as your wife. You should go. I… I need to be alone. My head is a
Camila sneered. "Hugo sent people to burn me alive. Does that count as making up to her? Yes, I don't deserve to live. I should just die so your wife can be happy!""Enough! What does any of this have to do with Jennifer? Stop making a scene!" Maxwell was overwhelmed by guilt and helplessness whenever he thought about Jennifer. He worried about what Hugo might be filling her head with right now.Camila wailed, "You're still taking their side? Maxwell, take a good look! I was almost burned alive by Hugo. They set a fire right under your nose. Do you think he respects you? I'm old, yet you sent me to work in the countryside! That bastard failed this time. But he might succeed next time!"Maxwell said sternly, "That won't happen. I've already arranged for people to protect your hospital room. No one will hurt you again.""You can protect me now, but can you still protect me when I recover and return to the countryside?" Camila was furious. "Hugo won't spare me! Maybe Jennifer already
Michael finally understood. Maxwell simply wanted to teach Hugo a lesson. After all, they were still brothers-in-law.…Jennifer was accompanied by two bodyguards at the airport and was waiting to board with Cassidy and Caleb. Hugo suggested she go back to the Shaw residence and avoid the chaos. Jennifer still felt as if she were in a dream.Why was Maxwell the son of her enemy? She had borne two children for her enemy's son. And she was carrying the third. She felt lost and didn't know her next move.Cassidy and Caleb could sense the tension and grew uneasy. Caleb asked, "Mommy, where's Dad? Why isn't he coming with us?"Cassidy chimed in, "Yeah, didn't Uncle Hug say we're going on a trip? Daddy can protect us if there are bad guys!"Jennifer looked at her children with guilt. She felt as though she had failed them.Just then, one of the bodyguards reminded her, "It's time to board."Jennifer nodded. Just as she was about to stand up, she spotted Maxwell approaching with sev
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