Ch. 461..470

Chapter 461

After I snapped out of my shock, I looked at Michael coldly, certain that he was just fooling around with me.

“Do I look like I'm joking?”

Michael frowned and looked at me with a hint of displeasure in his eyes.

“Is that not the case? Do you really expect me to believe what you said?” I scoffed with a mocking expression on my face.

I knew very well that it was impossible. After all, we were currently each other's competitors, so there was no way he would give all his assets to me.

“As long as you leave Nifty Group and Nicholas, the position of Joyful Success' CEO would be yours!”

Seeing that I still did not believe him, he looked at me angrily. From the seriousness in his tone, it did not seem like he was joking.

My heart skipped a few beats when I met his serious gaze. However, I still couldn't believe that he meant what he said. Is he really intending to let me be the CEO of Joyful Success?

At that moment, all I saw in his eyes was solemnness.

It was impossible for me to not feel touched when a man was willing to give me everything he owned. Besides, he was a man I loved deeply.

However, I forced myself to retract my gaze and reminded myself not to forget what happened one year back just because of his sweet words.

“No matter what you do now, you won't be able to make it up to me. Both of us will never be able to go back to what we were before,” I downcast my eyes and said with a bitter smile on my face.

I was not sure about Michael's intention for wanting me to return to his side, but I was very certain that we would never be the same as before.

“Do you think I should move on? Should I really forget the hurt you caused me one year back? Michael, since you've decided to abandon me back then, why are you asking me to return to your side now?” I asked, trying my best to hold back my tears.

I really could not understand why he did that. If he truly loved me, why did he hurt me back then?

Whenever I thought about what happened one year ago, I could not help but feel a heart-wrenching pain.

Staring into my eyes, Michael remained quiet for a long while before saying, “Do you really think that I abandoned you one year ago? Anna, when did you become so stupid? If I really wanted to leave you, would I need to go overseas?”

The tone of his voice was very somber. Upon hearing his words, my heart did a double somersault. After I snapped out of my shock, I looked at Michael coldly, certain that he was just fooling around with me.

I looked up at him in shock and asked, “What do you mean by that?”

Suddenly, I have a feeling that what happened one year ago was not as simple as it seemed. There must be more than met the eye.

At first, it was extremely difficult for me to believe that he had abandoned me just like that because of how much he loved and doted on me back then.

I refused to believe that the man I trusted wholeheartedly would hurt me so deeply.

“It wasn't me who signed the divorce agreement. Before I left the country, there were a few urgent documents that required my signature. Due to the urgency, I didn't go through the documents before signing. I guess that must be the reason you saw my signature on the divorce agreement,” Michael replied seriously while fixing his gaze on me.

I listened to him attentively, and after hearing what he said, I could feel my heart beating violently. However, I did not fully believe his words.

“If you didn't sign the divorce agreement, why would your father give the document to me and force me to sign it?”

I looked at him in shock and was only able to speak after a long time.

The circumstances surrounding our divorce were indeed rather suspicious. However, I did not dwell on it back then as I was in despair.

After hearing my question, Michael frowned slightly and looked at me as a flicker of hesitation flashed

across his eyes.

“It was indeed my father who did that. He was unable to forgive you because of what happened to my mother. As such, he couldn't accept the fact that you were my wife. I guess that was why he took the opportunity to make you sign the divorce agreement when I was abroad.”

Michael had a very serious expression on his face when he said that. I knew that it was hard for him to tell me the truth, and he must have felt terrible too.

Even though I was still in shock, I was fully convinced after hearing the revelation. I could still vividly remember how cruel his father had treated me back then.

It turned out that Michael's father was behind everything, and Michael never intended to abandon me...

That sudden piece of information caused a surge of emotions to rise within me, and my heart was thumping wildly. Although a part of me felt delighted, I also felt aggrieved at the same time.

Over the past year, I had spent almost every day resenting Michael. After knowing that he had nothing to do with our divorce back then, the invisible barrier that I had put up against him was suddenly gone.

My body was shaking slightly. At that moment, I did not know how to face him. Although that matter had nothing to do with him, I had hated him for so long because of that.

“Did your father consider our feelings when he did that? Did he think about how Amaury would feel? How could he be so selfish!”

It was impossible for me not to feel any resentment toward his father after knowing that it was entirely

that man's idea. I did not think it would be easy for any mother to forgive the person who separated her from her child.

Even if that person was Michael's father, there was no exception.

Sensing that I was in anguish, Michael frowned. Judging from the look in his eyes, I could tell that his heart was aching.

Moreover, I also saw guilt in his eyes. Although he was kept in the dark about what happened one year back, perhaps he felt that he was partly responsible for the pain I suffered.

“It's all my fault that I failed to protect you. It's right for you to hate me,” Michael sat down beside me and said in a serious manner.

Before knowing the truth, I was indeed full of hatred for him. However, after knowing what really happened, that he had never intended to abandon me, it was impossible for me to continue loathing him.

Besides, I had only hated him so much because I truly loved him. As I had given him my everything, I was unable to accept his betrayal.

While I recalled how tough it had been for me the past year, I felt overwhelmed by the grievances in my heart. Finally, I was no longer able to control my emotions, and tears started streaming down my face.

During that period of time, I had put up a strong front whenever he was around. However, at that moment, I dropped all pretenses and let my guard down.

Michael pulled me into his embrace and patted my back lightly, comforting me.

Although he did not say a single word, I could clearly feel the tension in him.

“Do you know how much I hated you? Do you know how painful it has been for me? I spent every day in sorrow. Why did you go overseas back then? Why did you not choose to stay by my side?”

I pounded on his chest forcefully. Even though I no longer resented him, I had to let out the grievances in my heart that had accumulated over the past year.

 

Chapter 462

“I'm sorry. It was all my fault. I'm sorry to have brought this upon you.”

He patted my back gently as he tried to comfort me, and his tone sounded extraordinarily gentle.

I could not even remember the last time he talked to me in such a manner. In fact, I had thought we were going to be enemies throughout this lifetime.

I wept for a long while in his embrace as though I was releasing the tears I accumulated over one year. After some time, I lifted my head from his chest.

He kept his arms wrapped around me and did not say anything. By then, his clothes had become wet and disheveled due to my tears.

“Have you finished crying?”

While asking softly, Michael reached out his hand and wiped the tears off my face.

Upon hearing that, I was somewhat embarrassed since it was the first time I had cried in someone's embrace for so long.

Nevertheless, I felt relieved after finding out that he did not abandon me back then. It was as though a weight had finally been lifted off my chest.

“Since when did you know about this? Why didn't you tell me earlier?”

I lifted my head and looked into his eyes anxiously.

“I just found out these few days. Actually, I have been suspecting it since you mentioned I was the one who left the signed divorce agreement behind,” he said after staring at me for a long while.

“Did you find your father?” I asked coldly. After all, his father was the reason the whole incident happened.

“Yes,” he responded curtly and did not say anything else.

At that, I lowered my head and kept silent. I did not know how to react since the person in question was his father. Nevertheless, it would be impossible for me to forgive him at this point.

“Since you have found out the truth now, can you come back to me?”

He suddenly changed the topic, probably worried that I might overthink. As his lips curled into a slight smile, anticipation filled his gaze.

I was overwhelmed with excitement as well after finding out the truth. However, I fell silent after hearing his question.

Even though he had nothing to do with what happened, his father did. There was no way I could go back to him and pretend nothing had happened. “I'm sorry. It was all my fault. I'm sorry to have brought this upon you.”

“Let's talk about this later. I haven't made up my mind about how to deal with your father. After all, he separated me from Amaury for one year. You have no idea how miserable I have been throughout this

one year. I can't act as if nothing happened.”

I wanted to forgive Lincoln for Michael's sake. However, what the former did was too much, and I was not a saint, so there was no way I could let this matter drop so easily.

Right then, Michael's smile vanished as though he read my mind, and he stared at me solemnly.

“He was only upset because my mother got hospitalized and was in a coma. Plus, you took the blame for everything that happened. That was why he did such a thing to you.”

Evidently, Michael was trying to defend his father's doing. I knew he was enraged with his father as well. Nonetheless, he understood why the latter had resorted to such means.

I had conflicting feelings upon hearing him mention his mother and hesitated whether I should reveal the secret that I was helping Steven keep. After all, I had given the man my word to keep my lips sealed.

“Michael, don't you blame me for what happened to your mother? Won't you hate me like your father?”

I was intimidated by his father's resentment toward me. However, I cared more about how Michael thought of me. I was worried that he might hate me as much as his father did.

“I know it had nothing to do with you. It wasn't your doing. Why can't you just be honest with me? You don't need to keep any secrets from me.” He started to sound impatient.

My heart pounded wildly upon hearing his words. Even though it had caused me a lot of suffering, I had to keep my promise no matter what. I did not want to sacrifice others for my happiness.

After all, I once said it would be the last thing I did for that family. I was determined to cut all ties with them from that day onward.

I almost wanted to spill the beans. However, after pondering for a while, I chose to keep silent because I was unsure how Michael would react if he found out the truth.

“I don't want to talk about this. Please don't ask me anymore.”

I lifted my head and gazed at him sternly. My heart was overwhelmed with a mixture of emotions.

Upon hearing that, a trace of disappointment appeared in his eyes. However, he swiftly recollected himself.

“Okay. I won't force you if you don't want to talk about it. But I still hope you will tell me the truth one day.”

He would have pressed on if it were before. Nevertheless, he did not do so this time. While I heaved a sigh of relief, my heart grew heavier.

If I told him everything, all the problems would be solved. However, if I did so, I would be betraying Steven and breaking the promise between us.

I did not go to the company that day after finding out the truth. Even though Amaury was still at the Shaw residence, I seemed to have lost my desire to bring down the Shaw family.

Even if I went back to the company, I would not know what to do. After all, I had no intention of going

after Michael anymore. Thus, I figured there was no point in me staying at that company anymore.

I never expected that things would turn out this way.

Since Michael went back to the company, so did I. However, I did not go back to work but to hand in my resignation letter.

As soon as I entered Nicholas' office, I placed the resignation letter on his table.

When he took a glance at the letter, he furrowed his brows tightly. He lifted his head a few seconds later and stared at me anxiously.

“Why do you want to resign? Is it because of the meeting two days ago? Didn't they say they did not want you to leave the company?”

Nicholas sounded rather emotional. Nevertheless, I looked at him calmly and replied, “That's not the main reason. I'm doing this because I might not be able to help you go against Michael anymore. I don't want to get involved in terms of work.”

How could I possibly go against Michael after knowing that his feelings for me never changed? Hence, I figured the best choice for me now was to leave the company.

Even though I spent over a year to get to this position, and it would be a waste to give up at this point, happiness was more important to me than my career.

Chapter 463

Nicholas' expression darkened after he heard what I said. “What do you mean by that? Have you forgotten how he hurt you a year ago? Didn't you want to make yourself stronger? Don't you want to get Amaury back? Why are you giving up now?”

He cast me a series of questions as he raised his tone. Evidently, he was unhappy with my decision.

I was sure he must have guessed that I knew something that he wanted to keep from me. That was why he asked all these questions.

I hated Michael very much before I knew the truth. Hence, I had been persistent with my goal to help Nicholas bring down Michael's company.

However, I could not do it anymore since the truth was unveiled. I knew I was being selfish, but nothing was more important to me than love.

“I am sorry, Nicholas. I just found out the truth. Michael did not abandon me a year ago. It was all his father's doing. I have misunderstood him, and now we have buried the hatchet, so I can't go against him anymore.”

To be honest, I felt guilty toward Nicholas as I knew how much effort he had put into me throughout the past year.

“I know you might not be able to accept this. But I have to be honest with you. If not, it would be unfair to you,” I continued.

Having said that, I lowered my head and evaded his furious gaze.

“Are you sure you want to leave the company? Are you sure you want to forgive him? Have you forgotten all the sufferings you endured in the past year?” Nicholas blurted out, unable to contain his frustration.

With my head bowed, I remained silent as I knew he needed to vent his anger. After all, it was my fault that things turned out like that.

He became even more anxious after seeing my lack of response. After approaching me, he grabbed my shoulder and shook me forcefully.

“Why aren't you saying anything? Didn't you say that you hated Michael? Even if it had nothing to do with him, his family was the one who separated you from your child. Are you going to let that drop? Do you remember what you have been through in the past year?”

Nicholas' expression darkened after he heard what I said. “What do you mean by that? Have you forgotten how he hurt you a year ago? Didn't you want to make yourself stronger? Don't you want to get Amaury back? Why are you giving up now?”

He shook me violently as though he was trying to snap me back to my senses. At that moment, he was still trying his best to persuade me.

My heart skipped a beat upon seeing his rage and madness, and my shoulder became painful from his grip.

Even though I had expected that he would be pissed, I did not know he would be this scary. He was staring at me as though he was going to eat me up.

“I am sorry...”

Besides apologizing, I did not know what else I could say. After all, I did not plan for this to happen, and it was beyond my control.

Although I felt guilty, I had made up my mind. To me, nothing was more important than Michael and Amaury.

I would still try to find a way for him to return to me but not by hurting Michael.

Meanwhile, Nicholas stared at me coldly. After some time, he finally let go of his grip, his gaze filled with utter disappointment and pain.

“Are you sure about this decision? Are you going to leave here for good?”

He looked at me helplessly.

Nodding, I did not utter a word, but my attitude had said it all.

He displayed a bitter smile as he leaned against his table weakly.

“Fine. Since you have made up my mind, I know I won't be able to persuade you. After all, Michael is the most important person to you.”

Upon saying that, he turned away from me.

“I know you are pissed with my decision, but don't worry. I won't do anything to harm the company after I leave. I promise.”

Due to my guilt toward him, I would definitely not do anything to cause him harm. No matter what happened between him and Michael, I would not stick my nose into it.

Seeing that Nicholas did not respond to my words, I knew he needed time to process everything that just happened. Hence, I turned around and left.

When I walked out of his office, I noticed many people looking at me with strange expressions and gossiping among themselves. I supposed they had overheard the conversation between Nicholas and me. They probably did not expect that I would end up being with Michael.

However, I could not care less about what they thought. After all, I would not be staying in this company. It was their freedom to say whatever they wanted, and it had nothing to do with me.

After leaving the company, I heaved a sigh of relief. The tension that I had suppressed in my heart for over one year was finally released.

At that moment, my phone rang. Seeing that it was a call from Michael, I felt my heart fill with delight.

“Hello.” I picked up the phone.

“Where are you? Why aren't you at home?”

Michael sounded a little anxious and displeased.

“I was at Nifty Group. I just came out and will be back soon.”

Although I was being honest, my words seemed to have infuriated him.

“Why did you go to that company again? Do you plan to continue working there?”

There was a trace of anger in his voice.

“I'm not working here anymore. I came to hand in my resignation letter.”

Strangely, I felt happy upon hearing his harsh tone. I knew he was angry only because he cared about me.

“Really? Have you resigned?”

Michael asked skeptically after hearing my explanation.

“Do you think I am lying? Why can't you trust me? Or do you want me to stay here and continue to go against you?”

I pursed my lips, dissatisfied with his doubt. After all, I had made an enormous sacrifice in order not to go against him. It was not an easy feat to get to the position of director of a listed company, yet he still doubted me when I gave up such a promising career for him.

“Okay. I will reward you properly tonight for being so sensible.”

His sensual voice sounded from the phone after a short moment of silence.

Chapter 464

My face blushed after hearing his words. I had known him long enough to know what he was implying.

Whenever there were only two of us, his favorite thing to do was have sex. That was undoubtedly the reward he meant.

However, I felt an urge to reject his reward. To be honest, it felt more like a punishment than a reward.

I suggested, “Forget about the reward. I'll allow you to rest for tonight. We can talk about the reward later.”

After a long, intimate night with him, my private area was still sore, and I would not be able to take it if we were to do it again tonight.

“It's fine. Don't worry about your man's strength. I will serve you well tonight. You are being so obedient and considerate, so of course I should reward you.”

His sensual voice sounded again from the other end of the line. At that moment, I felt like slapping him in the face.

He's the one who wants to do it, yet he made it sound like I'm the horny one instead.

“If you dare say another word, I won't see you today!”

I was aware that I was no match for him in arguments. Despite that, I could not help but start to threaten him.

After discovering that what happened a year ago was not his fault, I knew he still loved me deeply. With that, I was confident that my threat would work on him.

“Anna, you are getting bolder and bolder, aren't you? You even dare to threaten me now. If you hide from me today, I will ensure that you can't get out of bed for days!”

I thought he would behave after hearing my threat, yet he gave me a more terrifying warning.

I was pissed and worried at the same time as I did not have a single doubt about his ability in bed. If he did his best, I might end up lying in bed for days.

“Michael, you!” I bellowed as I held my phone in rage.

Yet, the words in my mouth failed to escape my lips. Whenever we got into an argument like this, I would be the one who ended up speechless.

“I will give you half an hour to come back here, and I will fulfill my promise if you are late by a minute.” My face blushed after hearing his words. I had known him long enough to know what he was implying.

He did not give me any chance to respond as he voiced his final threat. Before I could say anything, he hung up the phone abruptly.

Listening to the beeping sound on the phone, I cursed him furiously in my heart.

He is getting more and more ridiculous. All he thinks about is sex. I wonder if he found other women to fulfill his physical needs when I was not around during the past year.

With that in mind, a trace of panic rose in my heart. Even though it was not his fault, I would not be able to accept it if he had another woman.

As I dwelled on the thought, I decided to question him about it once I went back. If he had another woman, I would definitely not get back together with him.

Even though it was normal for a man to have physical needs, I still could not accept it. In fact, I hoped that my man belonged to me only, both emotionally and physically.

I could not stop thinking about it while I was behind the wheel. Hence, I was driving extremely slowly. Nevertheless, the time limit he gave me should be sufficient.

To my relief, I managed to arrive within half an hour. Otherwise, I would have to be punished by him.

Just as I opened the door and walked in, a strong arm pulled me into a warm embrace.

Before I could regain my senses, he had kissed me on the lips.

I was rendered speechless upon seeing his impatient demeanor. Is he going to do it now? Didn't he just do it last night? It hasn't even been a day yet. Does he need to be so impatient?

“Michael, let go of me first! I came back in time. I'm not late!” I tried to push him away as I reminded him anxiously.

“Did I say that I wouldn't do it if you returned in time? I don't remember saying so.”

His arms loosened a little but still circled me, and his lips curled into a wicked smile as he stared at me tauntingly.

Only then did I realize I had been fooled by him.

“Michael, you bast*rd! How dare you tease me like this?”

I was struggling hard to get away from him. Looking at his passionate expression, I was sure he would not let me go. My heart skipped a beat as nervousness rose within me.

However, he merely smiled in response to my rage. The next second, he carried me in his arms and walked into the bedroom.

After that, he threw me onto the bed. The moment I tried to flip over and get down, he was already upon me, pressing me onto the bed.

Instantly, he rained kisses all over my body while his hands roamed around it.

He started unbuttoning my clothes skillfully, revealing my upper body.

Indeed, he was all too familiar with my body, and because of that, he could find my sensitive spots effortlessly. As his hands explored my body, an overwhelming sensation filled me instantly.

I went into an ecstasy under his seduction in the blink of an eye. As I stared at him with a delirious look, my body desired to be filled with his love.

He displayed a satisfied smile upon seeing my expression and single-handedly unbuttoned his shirt,

revealing his firm chest.

While I observed his perfect body, the burning question I had earlier on suddenly came to my mind.

With that, I somehow regained some rationality. When he tried to pounce on me again, I used both hands to stop him.

Seeing me resisting him, he frowned with displeasure.

“Oh yes. I have something I want to ask you,” I said as I looked him in the eye.

“Not now, please. You can ask as many questions as you want once we are done.”

He furrowed his brows in dissatisfaction and did not take my words seriously as there was only one thing on his mind at the moment.

“Michael, can you be a little more serious? It's an important question to me!”

Although I knew there was a possibility that his answer might disappoint me, I could not wait to find out. After all, I did not want to have sex with him without knowing the answer first.

 

Chapter 465

“Why must you ask such an important question at this moment?” he asked calmly, his expression turning solemn when he noticed how serious I was.

With his arms propped beside me, he stared down at my face.

My heart raced as I gazed into his eyes. I was worried that if I asked my question, his answer would disappoint me.

After a long moment of silence, I mustered my courage and asked, “For the past few years when I was not around, did you get together with any other woman?”

After asking that question, I held my breath and stared into his eyes, nervously waiting for his response.

I knew that asking that question would make me seem petty. However, it was something that bothered me a lot.

He did not respond immediately after hearing my question. Instead, he frowned and stared at me with an unfathomable look in his eyes. I could not read his mind at all.

As I still did not hear his reply, I felt even more uneasy. Every second that passed was like torture to me.

I had a bad feeling about this. Still looking at him, I forced out an unnatural smile and asked again, “Why aren't you answering my question?”

“Are you asking me this all of a sudden because you don't trust me?” he asked calmly instead of answering me immediately. A tinge of unhappiness crept into his voice.

“I don't know. I just want to hear the answer from you directly.”

I averted my eyes guiltily, not daring to meet his gaze. To be honest, I doubted him. I knew that he was a lustful man, so I could not be certain whether he had managed to hold himself back during the past year when I was gone.

Right then, he looked down at me, his eyes filled with conflicting emotions. Still, he did not answer my question, which made me feel even more uneasy.

“Does your silence imply that you've got other women by your side in the past year?”

I stared at him. When I spoke, I felt an urge to cry.

Although I knew that it was a very difficult feat for a man to remain chaste for a year and that it was selfish of me to ask such a question, I simply could not help doing so.

“Anna, listen carefully. Ever since I got to know you, I've never had any other woman other than you. Are you satisfied with this answer?” asked Michael coldly as he gazed straight into my eyes. “Why must you ask such an important question at this moment?” he asked calmly, his expression turning solemn when he noticed how serious I was.

Initially, I thought that he was furious. However, after I heard his response, my heart skipped a beat.

He said that he never had any other woman after getting to know me. Immediately, I was filled with surprise and delight. However, I did not dare to reveal that outwardly because he looked like he was going to devour me soon.

I met his gaze, feeling very touched.

“I'm sorry...”

Looking at his grim expression, I felt a bit guilty. For the past year, he had been suppressing his desires for my sake. Yet, I still doubted him. If I were him, I would be angry too.

“Anna, am I that incapable of making you trust me and feel safe? Am I just a horny man to you?”

His anger did not dissipate because of my apology. A vague glint of rage flashed across his eyes as his tone became frosty.

Faced with his interrogation, I could not say anything in response. It was not that I did not believe him— I was just afraid that he had moved on in the past year and our relationship would not be as strong as it was a year ago.

“Michael, now...”

Staring into his eyes, I opened my mouth but did not know how to explain.

Meanwhile, he stood up and left the bedroom, not giving me a chance to continue.

When I heard the door slamming shut, I felt even more upset and regretted asking that question. I

should have chosen to trust him.

After all, that incident a year ago only happened because I did not trust him. Yet, I was committing the same mistake now.

I sat up and put on my clothes. In my mind, I was conflicted over how I should apologize to him and appease him.

As a matter of fact, Michael had been very accommodating to me. A powerful man like him could get any woman he wanted, so there was no need for him to suffer because of me.

However, he was willing to change for the better for my sake, which was proof of his sincerity. When we first met, he was so arrogant and indifferent. In fact, he was notorious for his coldness and ruthlessness. Yet, he treated me with so much warmth and gentleness now, completely different from how he was before.

He had changed so much for me, but I still doubted him. How can I be so selfish?

I stayed in the room for a long time before I mustered the courage to walk to the living room. With a laptop placed on his lap, he sat on the couch and reviewed the document on the laptop with a solemn expression.

“Are you working?”

Looking at how focused he was, I walked toward him and tried my best to sound calm.

“Yeah, I'm not done with work, so I brought it back home. Initially, I wanted to accompany you for a

longer time, but who knew that you don't even care!” he replied coldly while his slender fingers flew across the keyboard.

He did not even spare me a single glance.

I knew that he was still angry about my question. Looking at his displeased expression, I felt even more guilty. A hint of awkwardness spread across my face as I kept wondering how to appease him.

“I'm sorry. I shouldn't have doubted you. I know that you've sacrificed a lot for me... I'm really sorry!”

Other than apologizing, I did not know what to say to quell his anger.

When he heard me apologizing profusely, his fingers stopped typing. He turned around and glanced at me with a grim expression.

Just when I thought that he was about to fly into a rage again, he grabbed my hands and pulled me into a hug.

Lowering his head, he kissed my lips domineeringly. This time, I did not refuse. Instead, I closed my eyes and let him kiss me.

I was already feeling guilty toward him. If this could make him feel better, I was happy to comply.

Furthermore, I learned that he had never slept with any other woman in the past year, despite the fact that he still had biological needs. If I refused him now, I would not be worthy of all the sacrifices that he had made for me.

Hence, I gradually responded to his kiss. Hugging his neck, I tried my best to please him. I knew that although he was acting intimately with me, he was still infuriated by my earlier question. Unless I fully satisfy himself tonight, he would constantly bring this issue up in the future to settle the score with me.

Perhaps, my eager responses aroused him even more, and his breathing became heavier. He placed the laptop on the table with one hand, while his other hand started roaming around my body.

 

Chapter 466

This time, I did not resist anymore. Instead, I tried my best to cooperate with him. This was the first time I did not reject his advances after I returned.

Michael seemed pleased with my reaction, and the anger in his eyes disappeared quickly. Noticing that, I heaved a sigh of relief secretly and became even more proactive.

My hands also started to explore his body. Perhaps because he had not touched a woman like that for a year, he did not suppress his urge for long. Soon, his lust reached its peak, and he carried me into his bedroom.

Lying on the bed, I unbuttoned his shirt while he quickly took off my clothes.

Right then, a devilish smirk played on Michael's lips. Looking at how proactive I was, he was no longer angry.

As I took the initiative, Michael kept staring at me. Feeling extremely embarrassed, I averted my gaze and stopped looking at him, hoping to alleviate the awkward atmosphere.

Michael hovered above me and kept planting kisses all over my body. When I finally felt aroused, he entered me without any hesitation.

That day, we stayed in bed from evening till midnight. By the end of it, I felt like all the strength had left my body.

It was true that absence made the heart grow fonder. Being apart for a year made both of us long for each other's bodies even more.

Although we had already done it a few times previously, it was not voluntary. Hence, it felt different this time.

When Michael was fully satisfied, he hugged me. Leaning into his embrace, I closed my eyes and panted.

I felt quite exhausted after such a long period of vigorous exercise on the bed. However, he was still energetic, in fact, even more so than before.

I was starting to doubt if he was a normal person. Any other man would have been utterly exhausted after doing it so many times, but he was completely fine. Ever since we got together, he had always been very aggressive in bed.

“You were quite proactive tonight, huh? Will you ask such a question again in the future?”

Michael's sexy and deep voice sounded, which still had a hint of lust and sensuality. This time, I did not resist anymore. Instead, I tried my best to cooperate with him. This was the first time I did not reject his advances after I returned.

When I heard him bring that up again, I pouted unhappily. He's such a petty person! I've already apologized, but he's still hung up over it.

“Nope. I'll never suspect you again. I know that you won't betray me, right?”

I raised my head and looked into Michael's eyes seriously. To be honest, this was all my fault, and I

was being too petty. I would never ask such a foolish question again.

“What do you think? Do you really think that I'll do anything to let you down? Are you still refusing to trust me, Anna?”

Michael raised his eyebrows. Although his tone was calm, I could tell that he was still quite unhappy with me.

“Of course I believe you. Didn't I say that I'll never doubt you again? Can you stop being so petty? Why are you refusing to let this matter go? I already said that it's my fault,” I mumbled softly, pouting.

“What about you? You've been with Nicholas for the past year when you were overseas. How many times have you slept with him? Is he really better than me in bed?”

Initially, I thought that this matter would pass if I just acted cutely. To my surprise, Michael suddenly brought up Nicholas and even asked such a shameless question.

His grip on my arm tightened. Although he remained expressionless, I noticed the grouchy look on his face.

“Do you think that I'm such a loose woman? Would I seek out another man so desperately right after leaving you?”

In truth, there was nothing between Nicholas and me. In fact, I had always kept a distance from him. Although our relationship was quite close when we were overseas during the past year, I only treated him as my friend and never did anything inappropriate with him.

That being said, Michael's question made me realize how he felt when I asked him whether he had any other woman besides me.

A pleased look crept into Michael's eyes when he heard my response. However, he did not plan on sparing me so easily. “But I remember clearly that you once said Nicholas' junk was bigger than mine. Not only that, but he could also last longer than me and had better skills. Have you forgotten about that?”

Upon hearing what he said, I was rendered speechless.

Sometimes, men could be so much more troublesome than women when they were so hung up over old debts.

“Michael, can you stop bringing the past up? You were the one who forced me to say that. Since you insisted on believing that I've slept with Nicholas, I just played along with you. Besides, no matter how I explained it, you wouldn't believe me!”

Back then, all he talked about was my relationship with Nicholas. No matter what I said, he would not believe me. When I could not be bothered to clarify the matter anymore, I said that on purpose to provoke him.

Yet, he was actually digging old debts up at this moment! What a petty man!

Michael flipped over and pinned me under his body. After that, he pressed his hand to the most sensitive spot between my legs and asked sensually, “You've never slept with him? Does this also mean that he has never entered you?”

“What are you doing, Michael?”

When Michael placed his hand on that spot, I blushed. After that night of passion, the area still felt quite sore. Furthermore, his words were so blunt that I started feeling embarrassed.

“I'm the only one who can enter my woman's body,” he leaned down toward my ear and whispered, his voice filled with desire.

When he spoke, his warm breath blew against my ear, sending a tingling sensation right down to my heart.

I turned my face and stared at him in embarrassment as we were in a very sensual position right now.

“Other than you, I've never slept with any other man. I've always treated Nicholas as an ordinary friend.”

Judging from Michael's tone, it seemed like he genuinely thought that I had slept with Nicholas.

He claims that I don't trust him, but isn't he the same? He doesn't trust me at all! Otherwise, he wouldn't have thought that I slept with Nicholas.

When I thought about that, I felt rather upset.

“You don't need any male friends. I'm the only man you need!” declared Michael domineeringly, still unsatisfied with my response.

 

Chapter 467

He spoke in such a matter-of-fact and domineering manner that I stared at him speechlessly. There's no cure to his possessiveness. If I do as he says, I will have no more male friends!

“Michael, has anyone ever told you how domineering you are?” I snapped unhappily as I stared into his eyes.

“You're not the first to say that. Many people have told me that. I've always been like this!” replied Michael indifferently as he met my gaze and raised his eyebrow.

I was obviously trying to take a dig at him, but he was completely unbothered.

No matter what I said, he still looked so arrogant. I pouted unhappily before closing my eyes and ignoring him.

After that passionate night with him, I was already utterly exhausted, and I wished for nothing more than to have a good rest.

Luckily, Michael stopped pestering me. He moved away from me, pulled me into his arms, and shut his eyes too.

When I woke up the next morning, Michael informed me that he needed to return to the Shaw residence to deal with something. Although I hated Lincoln, he was still Michael's father. Hence, despite my unease, I did not say anything.

I remained at Birchwood the entire day, feeling extremely frustrated. Till now, I had no clue how to face Lincoln and what my attitude toward him should be. It was also necessary for me to talk to him about

Amaury.

As long as he could return Amaury to me, I was willing to move on from the incident a year ago and pretend that nothing had happened. For Michael's sake, I would remain respectful whenever I saw Lincoln in the future.

After Michael returned, he looked quite grim. In truth, I could already guess what he went back for. I just did not want to jump to the worst conclusion.

There was rarely anything that could affect his mood. Looking at his gloomy expression, I knew that something bad had happened when he returned, and it probably had to do with me.

While he sat on the couch in the living room, I approached him with a glass of water and sat down beside him.

“Did your father summon you back because he found out that we're together again?” I asked calmly as I looked into his eyes, my voice filled with certainty. He spoke in such a matter-of-fact and domineering manner that I stared at him speechlessly. There's no cure to his possessiveness. If I do as he says, I will have no more male friends!

“Yeah,” replied Michael calmly. Instead of hiding the truth from me, he affirmed my guess.

“He doesn't want us to be together, right? Does he still hate me because of your mother?”

Actually, I could understand why Lincoln hated me. After all, he still believed that I was to be blamed for his wife's hospitalization. However, what he did not only harmed me but also Amaury and Michael.

As for Josephine, I still felt a bit guilty, but I would not keep putting up with Lincoln's attitude.

“Since your father doesn't allow us to be together, what do you plan to do?” I asked seriously as I gazed into his eyes.

As I could tell what had happened, I did not feel anything after hearing his response.

“No one can stop us from being together. You're the only woman I want! No matter what, I'll make you stay by my side forever,” promised Michael resolutely as he hugged me tightly in his arms.

As I listened in his embrace, I could feel that his words were genuine.

Touched by Michael's words, my heart skipped a beat. After all, Lincoln was his father. His act of defying his father's wishes and choosing to be with me was more than enough to prove his love for me.

“But if you insist on being together with me, your relationship with your father might...”

I frowned slightly. Although I did not like Lincoln and still remembered what happened a year ago, he was not getting any younger. The last thing I wanted was for Michael to fall out with him because of me and cause the Shaw family to end up in a more chaotic situation.

“Anna, listen carefully. No matter what, you must remain by my side. If you leave me like what you did a year ago, I'll never forgive you!” warned Michael, turning his head abruptly upon hearing what I said.

There was a cold glint in his threatening gaze.

I did not expect him to say something like that all of a sudden. When I met his eyes, my heart skipped a beat. Is he afraid that I'll disappear from his sight again?

Right then, I recalled what happened a year ago—we resented each other because of a misunderstanding. Even at that moment, thinking about it still made me feel quite upset. Although he was the person I cared about the most, I forced myself to hate him for a whole year. I would be lying if I said that I was not unhappy.

“No, I will never leave you again. Unless you don't want me anymore, I will never leave you!” I promised firmly after a moment of silence, staring into his eyes.

Time crawled by so slowly during that year when we were separated. Now that we were finally reunited, I could never bear to part from him again. In fact, I wished for nothing more than to be by his side every second.

“Remember what you said! No matter what happens, we must always be together. Amaury too! I know what you're thinking about. I'll let Amaury return to your side. I want both of you with me!”

I could never hide my thoughts from Michael. This time, I came back just for Amaury. He knew this very well, so he promised me before I could even bring the topic up.

“Yeah, I believe you. If possible, I wish for this issue to be resolved peacefully. I don't want things to get too ugly with your father. He's your father, after all.”

If Lincoln were not Michael's father, I would not have so many inhibitions. Although I had decided to resolve it peacefully, it did not mean that I had forgotten what happened a year ago. I just did not want to make Michael upset.

“Okay, I'll settle this,” guaranteed Michael determinedly as he hugged me tightly.

After I chatted with Michael for a while, he received a call from his company and left.

I knew that due to the competition with Nicholas' company, Michael had a lot of work to settle in the office. Hence, I did not hold him back.

After he left, I sat in the living room alone, feeling frustrated. After some time, my phone rang. When I saw that Lincoln was calling me, I frowned.

If he was calling me at this juncture, it must be because of Michael being together with me.

I knew that his call definitely did not signify anything good. However, out of courtesy, I still picked it up.

 

Chapter 468

“Mr. Shaw,” I greeted indifferently without a hint of emotion in my tone.

No one is a saint. I believe no woman could treat him as a family after all he had done.

Lincoln did not beat the bush but asked directly, “Ms. Garcia, do you have time? Can I talk to you?”

“Sure,” I answered.

In actuality, I had guessed what he wanted to say. Moreover, I wanted to speak to him and reveal my stance. Otherwise, I felt that he would not give up.

Lincoln did not ask to meet outside this time. Instead, I was to meet him at the Shaw residence. The place felt familiar yet somehow alien to me.

In actuality, I did not wish to go there at all. However, when I thought about Amaury living there, I could not resist wanting to see him. Therefore, I agreed to meet Lincoln there.

Half an hour later, I drove the car to the Shaw residence. Lincoln might have instructed the security beforehand, so they did not stop me but let my car enter straightaway.

Lincoln was already sitting in the living room when I walked in. He had a stern expression on.

“Mr. Shaw,” I greeted him flatly and took a seat opposite him. I was no longer the same woman as when I lived here. Therefore, I would never be intimidated by anyone.

“You're here.” Lincoln glanced at me impassively and spoke in an emotionless tone.

Seeing that he was not going to continue, I took the initiative to break the silence. Therefore, I looked squarely at him and asked, “Mr. Shaw, you said you have something to tell me. What is it?”

Lincoln's gaze landed on my face. He looked straight into my eyes and asked solemnly, “I know the matter between you and Michael. Are both of you together again?”

“Yes, we have reconciled.” I met his gaze calmly. There was nothing to hide. It was pointless hiding my relationship with Michael from him.

Lincoln was surprised that I answered him without hesitation, causing his expression to grow sterner.

“Anna, you know how I feel about this. Previously, I thought both of you would break up permanently. I did not expect both of you to come together again within such a short time,” Lincoln said with a tight frown. Complex thoughts warred in his eyes as he looked at me. “Mr. Shaw,” I greeted indifferently without a hint of emotion in my tone.

Within a few days of my return to this country, Lincoln had asked to meet. At the time, an awkward mood hung between us. He had wanted to meet me to find out my stance.

“At the time, I did not know you were the sole mastermind behind our divorce and that Michael knew nothing about it. If I had known, I would not have left him. I firmly believe that Michael and I could have remained together and found happiness,” I replied.

I still bore hatred for Lincoln whenever I thought he arranged for Michael and me to divorce. He had caused a year of severe misunderstanding between Michael and me. I would not have been able to remain as calm as I was if he wasn't Michael's father.

Lincoln was stunned upon hearing me. It turned out he did not know I found out about the matter. However, despite knowing that I had discovered his deception, there was not a hint of remorse on his face. Instead, his gaze turned even colder than before.

“You're right. I did cause you and Michael to divorce a year ago. I can never allow you and Michael to remain together no matter what. Josephine is still bedridden in the hospital. How can I let a person who harmed my wife remain in the Shaw family?” Lincoln glared at me even more ferociously when he mentioned Josephine.

“I can understand your hatred for me over that matter. However, how can you carry out such a despicable plan against me? I admit I was the one who caused Mrs. Shaw to be in her current condition, but it was unintentional. Yet, your hatred for me ruined my family's lives. Don't you feel any guilt for your actions?” I scolded.

I had no idea how much Lincoln cared for Josephine that he would treat me with such cruelty. After all, he had hurt not only me but Amaury and Michael. The latter two were his son and grandson!

“I didn't invite you here to argue who is right. You must have guessed what I wanted to say. After all, you are an intelligent person.” Lincoln did not intend to continue from what I said. He glanced at me impassively, but I felt a sense of threat.

I met his gaze. Naturally, I knew why he wanted to see me today. It was to get me to stay away from Michael. I wouldn't have come here if I didn't know what he was thinking.

“I know what you want to say, and I can provide you with an answer now. No matter what you say, I will never break up with Michael. If you insist on separating us, you will lose your son and grandson!” I

warned him.

Previously, I would never dare to threaten Lincoln with such words. However, he was an unusually stubborn man. If I did not speak to him firmly, I believe he would continue to try to separate Michael and me.

Today, Michael promised me that we would stay together no matter what happened. We would never allow anything to separate us from each other again. I also promised him the same. Therefore, I needed to fulfill my vow and never leave him.

“Are you telling me that you won't stay away from Michael? Are you determined to be with him?” Lincoln's expression darkened, and he was burning with fury. Even his tone sounded threatening.

“Yes, it does not matter what you say or do. Nothing will change my mind. Mr. Shaw, if you don't want to ruin your relationship with Michael, don't stop us from being together. Otherwise, you will lose him,” I said.

Today, Michael's attitude convinced me that even if his relationship with Lincoln turned sour, he would insist on remaining with me. That was also why I dared to speak so boldly with Lincoln.

Lincoln stood up from fury immediately after I had spoken. He glared at me with eyes blazing with rage. “Anna, how dare you threaten me? Do you think Michael would abandon me, his father, for someone like you? Don't you think you have overestimated your importance to him?”

“That is only your assumption, but it is false in reality. Have you forgotten Amaury? As Amaury's father, do you think Michael wishes to see his child motherless?” I replied.

 

Chapter 469

I refused to cower before Lincoln.

“Anna, don't you think that you have gone overboard? You weren't like this in the past.” Lincoln looked at me coldly as fury continued to blaze in his eyes. My attitude had infuriated him further.

“Previously, I was too ignorant. However, after experiencing so many things, I am no longer the same woman from a year ago. How would I dare to stand here and speak to you if I were still the same?” I smirked mockingly.

Everyone said that I had changed a lot and had become heartless. However, if I did not change and remained the same as a year ago, I would have no power to oppose Lincoln.

“I will never allow you to remain with Michael. It is your fault that my wife is still unconscious even now. You have to pay for what you did to her. I have already shown you mercy by not having the police arrest you. How dare you do this to me?” Lincoln's tone was full of threat. He implied that if I refused to leave Michael of my own volition, he would not let me go as before.

I was a little worried, to be honest. However, I would never leave Michael, no matter what Lincoln said.

“Since you could let me off previously, why can't you show a little more kindness and let me remain with Michael. It is not only for my sake by also for Michael's happiness. Can't you try to forgive me? I know you hate me for what happened to Mrs. Shaw, but now that things have come to this, I can only do my best to make amends,” I said.

I tried to persuade Lincoln. Despite my previous threats, I still wished to resolve this matter peacefully. I did not want Michael to be sad.

“You think you can convince me to let you and Michael stay together? I'll have you know. No matter how much you implore me, I would never allow it. Here is five million. You should take the money, leave here, and don't ever come back,” Lincoln replied coldly and placed a cheque on the table.

I looked at the cheque on the table and furrowed my brow. Does he seriously think that I would leave Michael for money?

I was already furious, and this indignity fanned my anger even more. He was humiliating me with such a paltry cheque.

I chuckled coldly and looked straight at his face before saying, “Only five million? Mr. Shaw, don't you think it is too little? I can easily find a job with at least a million annual salary. What makes you think I would leave Michael for just five million? You have severely underestimated me.” I refused to cower before Lincoln.

“Anna, don't you think that you have gone overboard? You weren't like this in the past.” Lincoln looked at me coldly as fury continued to blaze in his eyes. My attitude had infuriated him further.

Lincoln glared at me immediately. His gaze burned with anger as he said, “You think the money is too little?”

I saw that he was trying to force back his anger, but the rage was evident in his tone.

At this moment, I did not say anything but looked at him impassively. My heart boiled with fury.

“How much do you want? You can name a price for me. As long as you are willing to leave Michael and your price is within a reasonable range, I will grant it,” Lincoln continued after I remained silent for some time. His expression relaxed considerably. He must have thought that he could pay me to leave Michael.

“It's priceless! My love for Michael is priceless. I will never leave him no matter how much money you offer. Money is not what I want. Instead, all I want is Michael and Amaury!” I declared firmly.

I was not lacking in money. Furthermore, I could go to a company and find a job to provide for myself. Therefore, money could not tempt me.

“Why won't you leave Michael?” Lincoln shouted.

He had exhausted his patience and was shaking with fury.

“I've told you my stance clear enough. I will never leave Michael, no matter what. If you disagree with that, feel free to try anything. Michael and I shall prove how much we love each other,” I replied calmly.

I did not wish to continue the conversation with Lincoln. Therefore, I immediately turned around to leave.

Lincoln would only keep telling me to leave Michael. Therefore, we had nothing else to say to each other.

“You!” Lincoln seemed to have more to say, but I did not bother to stop. I had no interest in listening to him anymore.

I felt even more anxious after I left the Shaw residence. Although I pretended to be calm before Lincoln, no one would want anyone to damage their love life.

I received another message from Lincoln after I reached Birchwood. He hoped that I would consider his offer carefully and call him once I chose to accept.

I deleted the message immediately after reading it. At the same time, I began to feel a little worried.

Michael returned to Birchwood soon after I finished cooking dinner. Then, both of us sat opposite each other to have our meal. I hesitated whether to tell him about my meeting with Lincoln today.

Michael had enough things troubling him. If I told him that, it would only make him even more frustrated.

After hesitating for a long while, I decided not to tell him about it. Furthermore, Lincoln had not done anything yet.

However, Michael could see that something was off about me. He frowned as he looked at me with concern and asked, “You seem troubled today. Is something wrong?”

I turned to him and was still hesitant about telling him.

In the end, I decided to tell him the truth because Michael would know if I lied. “Your father asked to meet me today.”

He frowned upon hearing my answer, and his expression darkened.

“Is he trying to make you leave me?” His tone sounded calm, but I could tell that he was angry.

Since I could guess what Lincoln wanted, it was not surprising that Michael knew too. Therefore, I looked straight into Michael's eyes and answered calmly, “Yes, I didn't agree to his request. I firmly refused his offer.”

“Do not worry no matter what he said. You should disregard it completely as if you never heard him. No one can ever take you from my side!” Michael's expression hardened, and he looked at me with eyes full of determination.

I looked into Michael's eyes and said firmly, “Yes, no one and nothing could make me leave you.”

“Let's eat. I will help you to resolve this issue. Also, I will ask the nanny to bring Amaury to see you tomorrow,” Michael said calmly before switching to another topic.

My mood instantly improved when I heard that I would be seeing Amaury tomorrow. As long as I could see Amaury, nothing else would bother me.

Furthermore, I believe that no one could separate me from Michael anymore.

 

Chapter 470

Things remained peaceful even a few days after I met with Lincoln. I breathed a sigh of relief when I noticed that Lincoln did not attempt anything. Furthermore, I felt that he cared about Michael. Therefore, I believed he would not want to see Michael and I suffer.

I had already decided that it did not matter how Lincoln treated me. As long as he did not obstruct my relationship with Michael and let Amaury return to my side, I could pretend that nothing had happened. Although there would always be resentment between us, I was willing to let it go for Michael's sake.

However, I soon discovered that I was too naive. Lincoln had never planned to allow Michael and me to remain together. He had been doing something else for the past few days. That was why things seemed so peaceful.

Today, Michael asked the nanny to bring Amaury to Birchwood. The nanny and I spent the day playing with Amaury. Although he had to return to the Shaw residence every night, I was content to be able to spend time with him during the day.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang. I frowned and wondered who it was. As I was holding Amaury, I asked the nanny to check the door. I was confused to see two police officers walking into the house.

One of the police officers looked at me and asked, “Are you Anna Garcia?”

I stood up and had a bad feeling. However, I still answered, “Yes, I am. You are...”

No one could stay calm when police officers suddenly entered their homes.

“Good morning. We are police officers. Someone made a report saying that you intentionally hurt a

person a year ago. Therefore, please come with us to the police station to aid our investigation,” the same police officer continued in an emotionless tone.

However, as he was still speaking, the other police officer walked toward me, holding a pair of handcuffs.

I began to panic upon seeing the handcuffs. Fear rushed to my head. “What intentional hurt? You have not explained the matter to me!”

I put Amaury on the couch and was trembling all over. He said something that happened a year ago. Could it be about Josephine?

“It is the matter concerning the Shaw family. Ms. Garcia, we don't have any evidence yet, so we request that you cooperate with our investigation. If you refuse, we have no choice but to bring you to the police station by force.” The police officer looked at me impatiently. His tone was cold and carried a hint of threat. Things remained peaceful even a few days after I met with Lincoln. I breathed a sigh of relief when I noticed that Lincoln did not attempt anything. Furthermore, I felt that he cared about Michael. Therefore, I believed he would not want to see Michael and I suffer.

Since he had explained why he was here, I would have been an idiot if I still did not understand what was going on. He was talking about the incident concerning Josephine.

The police officers suddenly appeared in the house and said I intentionally hurt someone a year ago. Therefore, I firmly believed that the complainant was none other than Lincoln.

I felt furious when I realized that Lincoln was the one who reported me. I did not expect him to be so heartless as to do this to separate me from Michael.

At this moment, I had no choice but to cooperate with the police officers. Seeing that I was willing to cooperate, they did not handcuff me. On the other hand, the nanny was stunned with shock at the side.

I went to the nanny and instructed her, “Please take care of Amaury. Once Michael returns, tell him that I am at the police station.”

Although I had gathered enough connections overseas, this was still the Shaw family's territory. Therefore, if Lincoln wanted to send me to prison, it would be an easy matter for him.

The nanny nodded and looked at me with panic in her gaze. I smiled at her and followed the police officers out of the house.

At the police station, the police officers brought me to the interrogation room. Then, they began to question me about what happened a year ago. Now that things had come to this, I wondered if I should tell the truth. Otherwise, I could end up in prison.

However, I had agreed to take the blame for Steven because I didn't want him to go to prison. Therefore, if I tell the truth now, it would be as if I did not help him at all.

“Anna, I'm asking you again. Did you hurt Mrs. Shaw? Did you push her intentionally?” asked one of the police officers.

I kept mum because I did not know what to say.

Therefore, he repeated the same questions sternly.

I took a deep breath and tried to remain calm before answering, “It was me. Mrs. Shaw and I were quarreling then when I accidentally pushed her. It was a coincidence that she hit the table. I had not intended to hurt her.”

I looked up calmly at the police officer questioning me. In actuality, I was panicking inside.

The police officer became even sterner upon hearing my admission. He said coldly, “Does this mean that you admit to the crime? Are you saying that you are the one who caused Mrs. Shaw to be in a vegetative state? Do you know that what you have done is the crime of intentional hurt? You could be brought to the criminal court to face prosecution!”

“I told you that it was unintentional. It was an accident,” I protested.

Judging from the way he looked at me, it seemed he had determined since the beginning that I intentionally hurt Josephine. Therefore, I began to panic. Unintentional hurt and intentional hurt were different matters and carried contrasting implications.

“Do you have any proof that it was unintentional? Your words do not carry weight.” The police did not care that I looked nervous. He looked at me indifferently and disregarded my claim.

“How can you straightaway determine that I had caused intentional hurt? What is your basis for saying that? You also don't have evidence that it was intentional, isn't it?” I argued agitatedly.

If I was sentenced to the crime of intentional hurt, who knew how many years I would have to stay in prison. I could not let them give me a criminal record.

“Whether it is intentional hurt or not, it is not something you have a final say in. You are quite unlucky. Of all the people you could offend, you offended the Shaw family,” replied the police officer.

He did not wish to listen to my explanation anymore. Thus, he stood up, and both police officers left together.

I sat in the interrogation room and clenched my fists. From what the police officer said just now, I understood that this was all Lincoln's plan. Even if it were an accident, they would make sure that the court sentences me to the crime of intentional hurt. Lincoln was resorting to such a cruel measure again.

My heart was bursting with hatred for him. Previously, he threatened to make me leave Lincoln. Although I was furious, I only kept it in my heart. However, I did not expect him to resort to such heartless means against me. He must have hated me so much that he wanted to send me to prison.

I was stuck in the police station and could not contact anyone. If I could call Michael, he would have had a way to help me.