Ch. 1..10

Chapter 1 The Return Of His First Crush

Kathleen Johnson was sitting on the bed with a blanket wrapped around her.

There were small red bruises on her exposed smooth shoulder and delicate collarbone. Although she was in a daze, it was undeniable that she still looked sexy.

The sound of running water from the bathroom stopped abruptly, and Samuel Macari came out of the bathroom with a white towel wrapped around his waist after a while.

He had broad shoulders, a lean body, well-defined abs, and the chiseled features of a male model. No, he looked much better than a male model.

“Why are you in a daze?” Samuel’s deep and magnetic voice rang out. “Have you thought of what you want?”

Kathleen regained her senses. She swallowed a lump in her throat as she looked at the man’s muscular body.

“Is it okay if we don’t get a divorce?” Her voice was sweet as usual, and her eyes were filled with a hint of innocence and misery.

“Why have you become so ignorant all of a sudden?” Samuel looked at her gently yet coldly at the same time. “Nicolette is back.”

Kathleen’s heart sank.

Of course, I know that Nicolette is back.

Nicolette Yoeger was Samuel’s childhood sweetheart.

Unfortunately, she was not welcomed in the Yoeger family, as she was an illegitimate child.

Thus, the Macari family did not agree with Samuel marrying her.

Kathleen, on the other hand, had a clean family background, and she was not the illegitimate child of a rich family.

Indeed, her background was very immaculate.

Her parents were ordinary doctors, who had unfortunately passed away in an effort to rescue Samuel’s grandmother, Diana Lane, from a fire.

The couple had sacrificed themselves in order to save her.

To thank the couple and prevent Samuel from marrying Nicolette, Diana had forced Samuel to marry Kathleen.

Back then, Diana had been in poor health, and the doctor had issued several notices of critical illness to Samuel.

Samuel did not have any choice but to agree to the arranged marriage.

He had told Kathleen that he would not fall in love with her and that everything was done so that Diana would be at ease.

Kathleen naturally understood.

She looked very much like a harmless little rabbit. She was gentle and thoughtful and was never a competitive person.

Thus, he had assured her by saying, “As long as you are still Mrs. Macari, I will not let you suffer. We will get a divorce three years later, and I will compensate you when the time comes.”

Kathleen looked at him meekly.

I married him not because of his money, but because I wanted to fulfill a dream from my youth. And the dream is shattered now. It’s time for me to face the reality. I’ve been gentle and obedient for three years, but I just couldn’t let this man fall in love with me. How pathetic of me!

“Sam,” Kathleen called him.

She was the only one who would call him by that name.

And whenever she called him that on the bed, Samuel could never stop himself from making love to her.

She may look like a small rabbit, but she is a vixen deep down. She is excellent at seducing people.

At the thought that she would probably marry another man after their divorce and of her using that same gentle voice to call another man, he felt a little displeased.

“Hmm?”

Kathleen could see her reflection in his eyes. She mustered her courage and said, “Sam, I’m pregnant.”

Samuel’s face darkened at once. “What did you say?”

Kathleen trembled involuntarily. She bit her lip and repeated, “I’m pregnant.”

“Get rid of it,” Samuel said without hesitation.

“What?”

“I said get rid of it.” His handsome face was full of hostility. “I’m not going to backtrack on my plan to divorce you just because of a baby. Besides, I don’t want the baby to become a hindrance between

Nicolette and me.”

Kathleen’s face turned pale.

It looks like even a child can’t change his decision. How could he tell me to abort the baby? What a cold-blooded man. The baby is his own flesh and blood.

Kathleen chuckled softly.

“Why are you laughing?” Samuel’s face clouded over.

“I’m not pregnant. I lied.” Kathleen had a smile on her face, but her heart was bleeding inside.

“You lied?” Samuel was visibly upset.

“That’s right. If you don’t believe me, why don’t we go to the hospital for a body checkup?”

“Good. I don’t want the existence of a potential threat. Abort the baby if you’re really pregnant. I’ll give you an extra one hundred million so that you can do what’s necessary for your health. Don’t worry, it won’t affect your… second marriage.”

Second marriage?

Kathleen gave a rueful smile. “I’m really not pregnant, so you don’t have to give me extra money. If you’re worried, we can go to the hospital for a checkup.”

Samuel held her chin. “What’s your plan after we get a divorce?”

Kathleen wrapped her arms around his neck. “I wanna join showbiz.”

Samuel was stunned.

Kathleen had graduated from a film academy after taking an acting course.

If not for her marriage to Samuel, she would have won the award for best actress long ago.

For some reason, Samuel did not like the idea of her joining the entertainment industry.

He knew that she was an alluring woman and was afraid that people would have their eyes on her.

“Very well. I will add another clause to our divorce agreement. You’ll be signed under Starlight Entertainment, and they’ll make you famous in five years.”

Kathleen smiled faintly. “It’s fine. I was just saying. How are you going to tell Grandma about us?”

Samuel felt the onset of a headache at the mention of Diana.

He knew that Diana would not agree with them getting a divorce.

Moreover, Diana did not like Nicolette’s identity as an illegitimate child.

“You go.” Samuel looked at Kathleen coldly. “She listens to you. I will give you an extra house if it works.”

Kathleen was at a loss for words, and there was a throbbing pain in her heart.

Did he really think that I married him for the money and the house? It doesn’t even concern him that he has hurt my feelings.

“Fine,” Kathleen agreed. “Sam, make love to me one more time.”

“Your wish is my command, you little vixen.” Samuel pulled her out of the blanket and positioned her such that she was sitting on him.

Truth be told, he could never have enough of her, for the woman was a delightful treat to him.

When he realized that he could never taste her again, he acted even harder than before. He wished he could drain her energy.

The night passed by and morning came.

Kathleen was awakened by the sound of a phone ringing.

Even though she was emotionally abused by Samuel, he had pampered her in other aspects.

Knowing that she would be grumpy in the morning, he would set his phone on silent or vibrate mode when he arrived home at night.

He was afraid that someone would look for him and wake her up.

However, unbeknownst to her, he had switched it back off.

Lifting the phone groggily, she intended to tell him that there was an incoming call for him.

But the moment she saw Nicolette’s name on the phone screen, she froze.

So that’s the reason for the change. Is he afraid that Nicolette can’t find him? What a considerate man!

All of a sudden, Kathleen realized that the past three years had merely been a dream.

As a matter of fact, it was not without any signs.

Even though Samuel did not love her, he had doted on her, for she looked very identical to Nicolette.

She had been Nicolette’s replacement for three years.

Chapter 2 Help Me Hide It

Samuel picked up the call from Nicolette.

There was a gentle look on his face.

Samuel was also gentle to her, but that was only because he saw her as another woman.

That was what broke Kathleen’s heart the most.

Not once had he seen her for who she was.

Instead, she was just a replacement.

Kathleen hated herself for resembling Nicolette so much sometimes.

They weren’t even related, but they looked almost identical.

“Don’t cry. I’ll come over right now,” Samuel assured tenderly. Hanging up, he turned to Kathleen and said, “I’ll get Tyson to take you to the hospital later.”

“You still don’t trust me, do you?” Kathleen grumbled in a daze.

“Yeah, I don’t,” he admitted heartlessly.

Kathleen pursed her lips, an impenetrable look in her eyes. “Okay.”

“Just hurry up and tell Grandma,” Samuel said indifferently.

“She hasn’t been feeling well lately. Are you sure you want me to tell her now?” Kathleen stared at his cold, handsome face.

“Yes. Nicolette can’t wait any longer.”

Nicolette can’t wait any longer? Does that mean he doesn’t care about Grandma’s life and death? I guess true love is enough to make him throw his whole family aside.

Kathleen knew she had lost, but she had not expected herself to lose so thoroughly.

“Fine,” she conceded with a weak nod. “But no matter how much of a rush you’re in, you have to give me at least three days.”

“Sure. I hope you won’t let me down.”

“Why would I?” There was a heart-wrenching smile on her face as she said that. “When have I ever let you down, be it in our three years of marriage, or as your wife?”

Her words caused Samuel to freeze.

It was the truth.

Having been married to him for three years, she had never disappointed him in any way.

She had done well in every aspect and carried things out flawlessly, especially in bed.

Kathleen had always given in to him and had tried to satisfy him in every way.

That was the only thing he felt reluctant to give up on.

“Good, then.” Samuel turned around and stepped into the walk-in closet to change his clothes.

Wrapped in the blanket, Kathleen was lost in thought.

Is this the end?

Even though she was upset, she knew that it wasn’t up to her.

After Samuel left, she got out of bed as well.

She went to wash up, then put on a pretty dress in preparation to go see Diana.

However, the moment she left, she bumped into Tyson Hackney.

Kathleen had her arms crossed as she looked at him with displeasure. “What?”

Tyson was confused.

Mrs. Macari is certainly an enigma. She acts like a cute, innocent little rabbit in front of Mr. Macari, but in front of me, she’s like a hostile version of Hello Kitty.

“Mr. Macari wants me to take you for a checkup,” Tyson said.

“Hmph!” Kathleen was visibly annoyed. “I can’t believe how little trust you have in me.”

Tyson didn’t know how to reply to that.

“Take me to Goodwill Hospital,” Kathleen said specifically.

It was the number one private hospital in Jadeborough that was equipped with the best medical equipment and the most qualified doctors in the country.

Seeing that there was an unfathomable look in Tyson’s eyes, Kathleen asked frostily, “What is it? Too expensive for you?”

“N-No.” Tyson didn’t know how to explain. “Please get in, Mrs. Macari.”

Kathleen stepped outside, completely bare-faced, but she still looked stunning.

After she got in the car, all she did was stare out the window.

She had chosen Goodwill Hospital not because she wanted to act superior, but because her parents had worked there as doctors and she was born there.

Everyone working there, from the director to the nurses, all knew who she was.

They all treated her as if she was part of their family.

On top of that, they would undoubtedly agree to help her if she ever asked for it.

A long while later, Tyson piped up, “We’re here, Mrs. Macari.”

Kathleen came back to her senses and realized they had arrived at the entrance of the hospital.

She pushed the car door open and stepped out.

Tyson followed her from behind. He wanted to say something but eventually held his tongue.

When they got to the entrance of the obstetrics and gynecology department, Kathleen turned around. “Stop right there, Mr. Hackney. Men aren’t allowed to go in.”

The moment Tyson saw the sign on the door, a wave of embarrassment washed over him. “Understood.”

Truthfully speaking, Mr. Macari should have been the one to come here with her. She’s his wife, after all. What’s the point of me going with her?

Kathleen turned and walked in.

“Ms. Williams,” she greeted the doctor.

Quinn Williams was dumbstruck at the sight of her. “It’s you, Kate! I thought it was just someone with the same name as you when I saw the papers earlier.”

“Yeah, it’s me,” Kathleen uttered while taking a seat.

“So you’re here to check whether you’re pregnant or not?” Quinn asked in surprise.

Kathleen nodded. “I think I am pregnant, Ms. Williams. Can you help me hide it, though?”

“Why?” Quinn looked stunned.

“I might be getting a divorce, Ms. Williams. I want to keep the child, but my husband will never allow it. That’s why I really hope you can help me out, Ms. Williams,” Kathleen begged.

“How could you mess around like that, Kate?” Quinn was both angry and heartbroken. “Do you have any idea how hard it is to be a single mother?”

Kathleen hung her head. “I know, Ms. Williams, but I have money. I can still raise this child.”

“This has nothing to do with money,” Quinn protested. “Who on earth is your husband? When you told me you were getting married, I kept asking you about it, but you refused to say. Tell me who your husband is right now. Is he treating you like this because your parents aren’t around anymore?”

“I think it’s better if you don’t know, Ms. Williams.” It was impossible to decipher any emotion from Kathleen’s pale, delicate face. “I knew that all of this would happen when I married him. Now that we’re getting a divorce, I have nothing to complain about. That’s why I want you to help me out here, Ms. Williams. Once we’re divorced, I’ll leave this place with the child.”

It’s not like I can stay. Samuel will definitely find out.

Quinn felt as if her heart was being ripped in half. She’s suffering because she’s all alone and there’s no one to support her.

“Kate, if you really don’t have any other choice, you should try and plead with Old Mrs. Macari. She sees you as her own granddaughter after all,” Quinn suggested, not knowing what was going on behind the scenes. “Samuel treats you like his own sister, too, doesn’t he? I’m sure he’ll deal with that husband of yours.”

Kathleen averted her gaze. “This is the only thing I can’t go to the Macari family for, Ms. Williams. Just help me out here, please?”

“All right.” Quinn frowned. “Lie down for now and let me have a look.”

“Okay.”

After the checkup, Quinn pushed her glasses up and stated, “You’re already eight weeks in, but it seems that you’re a little anemic because of your weak body. You should eat more nutritious food.”

“I was a premature baby, so my body’s always been a little weak. It’s how I’ve always been,” Kathleen muttered glumly.

“Does your husband not know about this?” Quinn inquired in a serious tone.

“He never asked, so I never brought it up,” Kathleen answered in dejection.

Even though Samuel had always been generous when it came to providing her with daily necessities, he never had any questions regarding her health. Instead, he would get Maria to take care of it.

His only responsibility was to provide her with money.

Quinn let out a sigh, then passed Kathleen a report. “This is what you wanted. I hope you can think things through, Kate.”

Kathleen stared at the report in front of her. Her lips quirked up. “What I want doesn’t matter. When it comes to my marriage, my husband has the final say.”

Just as she got up to leave, Quinn called out, “Kate, is your husband—”

Chapter 3 Leukemia

Kathleen turned around with a faint smile. “I don’t intend to get you involved, Ms. Williams.”

With that, she proceeded to make her way out.

Tears began to drip down Quinn’s face.

Kathleen’s mother used to be her mentor, yet there was nothing she could do to help Kathleen.

She didn’t know how she was going to face her own mentor.

When Kathleen came out of the obstetrics and gynecology department, she showed Tyson the report in her hands. “Take a good look. I’m not pregnant, so you can go now.”

What she said made Tyson feel awkward.

“Where are you heading, Mrs. Macari? I’ll send you there.” Here, he paused and added in a softer voice, “Mr. Macari told me to.”

“I don’t like being followed around. You can tell Samuel that I will look for Grandma, but I have something else to do right now,” Kathleen declared.

“Understood.” Tyson nodded.

Kathleen turned and left.

After taking two steps, she realized that she had forgotten to take her phone, so she went back to get it.

When she came out again, someone stopped her by calling her name.

“Kathleen.” Nicolette’s voice traveled into her ears.

Kathleen froze. How did I end up bumping into her?

She turned around quietly and looked at Nicolette, who was dressed in a hospital gown and looked a little pale.

Even so, she still looked gorgeous.

Despite the physical resemblance between them, their temperaments were completely different.

Kathleen was alluring, but there was something innocent about her.

Nicolette, on the other hand, was purely priggish.

The two of them were worlds apart.

Kathleen furrowed her brows and asked, “Why are you here?”

Nicolette stared back at her icily. A glint of envy flashed in her gaze. “I’ve been admitted to the hospital for leukemia.”

“Leukemia?”

“Samuel was the one who arranged for me to get admitted here.” Nicolette smirked. “Oh, right, I heard that the treatment for leukemia in this hospital was perfected by your parents.”

Her words disgusted Kathleen. She didn’t like the idea of Nicolette receiving the treatment that her parents had perfected.

“Good luck with your treatment, then,” Kathleen said emotionlessly.

She wanted to leave, but Nicolette stopped her again. “Give Samuel back to me, Kathleen.”

Kathleen paused.

“If it isn’t because you snatched him away, I would have been the one who married Samuel three years ago. Because of you, we were separated for so many years, and now, this is the state that my body’s in. Do you still intend to have him all to yourself? He doesn’t even love you!” Nicolette continued.

Kathleen remained expressionless. “What a joke. If he wants to get a divorce, then he should be the one talking to me about it. Why are you the one saying it? Is he that much of a coward?”

The truth was, she knew that Nicolette had only said that on purpose to provoke her and let her know just how much Samuel cared about Nicolette.

Even though Kathleen was aware of it, that didn’t change the fact that it hurt.

She had loved him for so many years, after all.

“Samuel just feels bad,” Nicolette muttered through gritted teeth. “You think it’s natural for you to be with Samuel because you lost your parents and Old Mrs. Macari likes you. But you seem to have forgotten that he doesn’t love you. Not even a tiny bit!”

“How can you be so sure?” Kathleen challenged.

Nicolette was dazed upon hearing that.

“Why would he touch me if he didn’t love me?” Kathleen continued taunting.

Nicolette trembled slightly. Right then, she looked behind Kathleen. “Samuel?”

Kathleen froze for a second and smiled calmly. I guess I fell for it in the end.

She turned around and was greeted by the sight of a cold, striking man.

“I came here to get a checkup. I’ll be on my way now,” Kathleen said.

“And what were the results?” Samuel questioned in a frigid voice.

Kathleen pulled out the lab report and stuffed it into his suit pocket. With a grin on her face, she answered, “Don’t worry. I’m not pregnant.”

Samuel took the report with a slight discomfort in his heart.

Truthfully speaking, he had had his hopes up.

However, the feeling soon dissipated.

“Well, since you’re not pregnant, let’s discuss the future,” he suggested in an unconcerned manner.

“Are you sure you want to talk about that here?” Kathleen looked aggrieved. “I haven’t even eaten yet just so I could get a checkup.”

“Go eat, then,” Samuel responded impassively.

“Take me there.” Kathleen smiled. “We can talk while we eat.”

Samuel stared at her without any warmth in his eyes. “Don’t try anything funny.”

Kathleen giggled, which was music to one’s ears. “If I had tried anything funny, you would have been kneeling in front of Grandma at this moment. All I’m asking is that you join me for a meal.”

Samuel furrowed his brows.

“You can go with her, Samuel. I’ll wait for you in the hospital,” Nicolette piped up, pretending to be understanding.

Kathleen beamed and grabbed Samuel’s arm. “If you say so, Ms. Yoeger. Let’s go, then. There’s a place nearby that I’ve been wanting to try for a while.”

Nicolette watched as they linked arms with venom in her eyes.

Samuel glanced at her and said, “Go back to the ward and get some rest. I’ll be back soon.”

“Okay.” Nicolette bit her lip. “Hurry back. Let’s eat lunch together.”

“Sure.” Samuel nodded.

Kathleen dragged him outside, and they went to the nearby restaurant that she had mentioned.

She took one menu, looking relaxed. “What are you getting, Sam?”

“I’m not eating.”

“You’re trying to save some room in your stomach to have lunch with Nicolette later, right? I get it.” Kathleen gestured for the waiter. “Can I get one quinoa salad? Also, I want a plate of chicken drumsticks. Thanks.”

“Sure.” The waiter nodded, then walked away.

Samuel knitted his eyebrows. “Why are you eating so much?”

He knew that Kathleen typically had a small appetite. She would be full after just a few bites.

“Really, Sam? I only ordered a bowl of quinoa salad and some chicken drumsticks, and you think I’m eating too much? Has your company gone bankrupt or something? Are you poor now?”

“Just eat.”

Sometimes, her cheekiness was adorable. Other times, however, it was plain infuriating.

Even so, Samuel had to admit that it hadn’t been too bad waiting for Nicolette to come back for the past three years with Kathleen by his side.

When the food was served, Kathleen began to dig in.

She was practically starving at that point, and so was the baby she was carrying.

As she chewed her salad, her cheeks puffed up. That action of hers was incredibly cute, and she looked just like a squirrel.

“What did you want to say to me?” Kathleen asked softly.

“What did Nicolette tell you just now?”

Kathleen frowned. Is he trying to settle the score?

“She told me that she had leukemia.”

“That’s true. I went to check for a bone marrow match for her. Surprisingly enough, there’s a donor in this hospital whose blood type is a perfect match for her. Can you guess who it is?”

Kathleen’s eyelid twitched. “You mean… me?”

Chapter 4 Family Specialty

Samuel nodded.

This is unbelievable. Seriously, what a f*cking cruel twist of fate! Kathleen, who played the part of a gentle princess most of the time, cursed internally. Is God playing tricks on me?

“I’m not going to donate to her.” Kathleen bit her lip. “I will never donate my bone marrow to a woman who destroyed my family and stole my husband away.”

Truth was, those actually didn’t matter that much.

What mattered was that she was pregnant with a child, so she couldn’t donate her bone marrow.

However, she couldn’t tell Samuel about that.

If he found out, he would force her to get rid of the baby.

“I’ll do anything you want as long as you agree to be her donor,” Samuel offered generously.

“Even if it means not getting a divorce?” Kathleen muttered with her head lowered.

She didn’t want him to notice the sorrow in her gaze.

Samuel fell silent.

Looks like he can’t let Nicolette go. Even if he agrees to my request, that’s only because he wants to save Nicolette’s life. He’s willing to sacrifice his marriage and happiness for her. What an admirable show of love.

“You shouldn’t get too greedy, Kathleen,” Samuel said. “Even if I did it to save Nicolette’s life, you should know that I don’t love you.”

Kathleen’s face paled.

Those words were like a dagger stabbing through her heart.

It was as if fresh blood was pooling out, and it hurt like never before.

“And what if I insist on keeping this dead love alive?” Kathleen slowly lifted her gaze and revealed her sparkling eyes.

“You won’t get anything from it, then. It doesn’t matter what aspect you’re talking about.”

“It’s the first time I’ve found you so disgusting, Samuel.” Kathleen put down the spoon in her hand. “You said I’m greedy, but aren’t you the same? You want to divorce me so that you can be with Nicolette. Fine, I agreed to that. But don’t you think you’re being too brutal to ask me to save her life now?”

Does he even know how much I love him? How can he be so cruel to torture me like this?

“You can’t have the best of both worlds, Samuel. It’s just like me and you.”

She had loved him for ten years, but that love had only turned into a source of pain to her.

“You’re absolutely avaricious.” Samuel stood up to leave.

Kathleen gave a self-deprecating chuckle and muttered to herself, “That’s right. I’m avaricious. I want everything—I want you, and I want your heart.”

She lost her appetite then.

There was no way she could take another bite.

After getting out of the restaurant, she went to the Macari residence.

Diana had had a stroke a while ago, and her condition had only improved recently.

When Kathleen saw the kind old woman, she couldn’t bring herself to tell her about the divorce.

“Grandma,” she greeted before taking a seat beside the bed.

“Katie, you’re here.” Diana was all smiles at the sight of Kathleen.

Out of everyone in the Macari family, she was the one who liked Kathleen the most.

It wasn’t just Kathleen’s parents who had saved her life, but also Kathleen herself.

Back when Diana had an abrupt stroke attack, Kathleen was the one who had stayed calm and saved her.

Even the doctor had said that if Kathleen hadn’t acted fast, Diana would have already lost her life.

However, only Diana, Kathleen, and the doctor knew about it.

Everyone else was kept in the dark.

Diana took Kathleen’s hand in hers with a sigh. “I never knew that you were well-versed in so many things.”

Kathleen felt embarrassed. “That’s what my family specializes in, Grandma. Even though my parents practiced modern medicine, my granddad was a practitioner of traditional medicine. I only learned a few basics from him. I didn’t think that they would be of any practical use.”

“Relax. I’m not questioning you,” Diana reassured. Her heart ached as she continued, “I just feel that your marriage with Samuel is holding you back. Otherwise, with your talent, you can go as far as you

want.”

Kathleen’s eyes began to water. She knew that Diana was the one who understood her most in the entire Macari family.

“You wouldn’t have made so many sacrifices if not for the fact that you loved Samuel so much.” Diana sighed. “It’s unfortunate that he’s an ignorant child. He knows nothing.”

“Don’t tell him about it, Grandma. I don’t want to burden him,” Kathleen begged.

“Okay, I won’t tell him,” Diana promised. “You and Samuel have been married for three years now, Katie. Why isn’t there any news yet?”

Kathleen’s cheeks flushed red. “Grandma, I—”

“Don’t listen to him. Are you really not going to have a child just because he says so?” Diana cut her off. “You should hurry up and have a kid and tie him down so that even if Nicolette comes back, she won’t be a match for you.”

Kathleen was dumbfounded.

Nicolette had already come back.

Even if they had a child, she still wouldn’t be a match for Nicolette.

Samuel was much more ruthless than they thought, and he was completely devoid of emotion.

Kathleen took Diana’s pulse and flashed a smile. “You’ve gotten a lot better, Grandma.”

“That’s good. I’d like to live a few more years so I can see you have a baby, Katie.” Diana smiled amiably and expectantly.

“Of course.”

Kathleen chatted with Diana for a bit longer, then got up to take her leave.

Right when she stepped out of Diana’s room, she bumped into Wynnie Staines, Samuel’s mother.

“Mom,” Kathleen greeted respectfully.

Wynnie was different from most mothers-in-law.

She wasn’t the picky kind, nor was she incredibly welcoming.

Instead, she was standoffish and cold.

Even so, she had never insulted Kathleen in any way, nor had she looked down on her.

Kathleen felt that it was a good thing.

That was why she held Wynnie in high regard.

“Mm.” Wynnie was a sophisticated woman in her forties. She was wearing a professional suit with high heels and was still working hard as a lawyer.

“I’m here to see Grandma,” Kathleen said. She looked as adorable as a little rabbit.

Wynnie, in fact, liked her a lot. She just wasn’t accustomed to expressing herself that much.

That was one thing she had in common with Samuel.

The only difference was that Wynnie liked Kathleen and cared for her a lot.

To her, Kathleen was a delicate young girl who was as pure as snow.

“I brought some crabs home. Let’s have dinner together,” Wynnie said.

One of her clients had given them to her. She didn’t want to accept them at first, but she had done so because she knew that Kathleen liked them.

She had even wanted to call Samuel and get him to bring Kathleen over for dinner. But surprisingly, Kathleen was already there.

It was true that Kathleen really enjoyed eating crabs. In the past, she could eat five all on her own.

On top of that, Samuel would help her with the shells. When she thought about it, she realized that they had shared quite a few intimate moments.

The only thing was that there was no love in them.

Even though she liked crabs very much, she felt absolutely disgusted when she thought of the taste right then.

She immediately turned and dashed into the bathroom before vomiting into the sink.

Wynnie came in and watched as Kathleen washed her mouth with some water from the door.

Kathleen wiped her hands with a towel and said, “My stomach hasn’t been feeling well lately, Mom.”

Wynnie’s eyes darkened. “Did you go for a checkup?”

“I did. The doctor told me to get enough rest.” Kathleen pursed her lips.

Wynnie hesitated for a moment and asked, “Nicolette’s back. Do you know that?”

Chapter 5

Kathleen did not respond, but Wynnie was well aware because she knew her son very well.

Wynnie did not understand which part of Nicolette was attractive after seeing that the latter could not walk.

She did not discriminate against Nicolette’s background and upbringing but because her actions were undignified.

"Why don’t you go back to your room to rest? I’ll call Samuel and ask him to come back," said Wynnie calmly.

Kathleen pursed her lips and replied, "Okay."

After that, she turned to leave.Wynnie watched her leave and sighed.If only Kathleen isn’t so thoughtful.I’ll stand up for her if she cries.

Wynnie took out her phone and called Samuel, "I don’t care what you’re busy with now, but I want you to get your ass home this instance!"

She hung up after saying that, and Samuel frowned.

Wynnie was evidently angry, judging from her tone.

Could it be that Kathleen told Grandma? Samuel became upset, and his eyes darkened.

Nicolette was afraid when she saw that.

"Samuel, what happened?"

Nicolette bit her lips and asked, "Could it be that Kathleen didn’t want to get a divorce and told your Grandma?"

"I’m not sure."

Samuel grabbed his coat and said, "I’ll be leaving for a bit."

"Are you coming home tonight?" asked Nicolette while she tugged at the corners of his shirt.

"Yeah."

Samuel nodded.

Nicolette smiled and said, "I’ll wait for you.I’ll be waiting for you no matter how late it is."

She would definitely not let go of him again.

Samuel looked at her meaningfully and left.

Nicolette’s eyes turned cold right afterward.

Samuel returned to the Macari residence, and Wynnie blocked him at the entrance.

"Mom, what happened?" asked Samuel coldly.

"You smell entirely of disinfectant.Could it be that you realized that having children is your problem, so you went to the hospital for a checkup?" asked Wynnie icily.

Samuel frowned and said, "Mom, what are you saying? I’m perfectly healthy."

"Very well.Why don’t you want children?" asked Wynnie unhappily.

"Kathleen was the one who didn’t want kids," replied Samuel calmly.

"Nonsense."

Wynnie scolded, "Samuel, how could you push the responsibility for this to a girl? This is akin to resenting your wife for not being able to have children.How did I give birth to a son like you!"

Samuel’s brows furrowed, saying, "I’m telling the truth."

He had tested Kathleen.

After they made love, she said she wanted to sign up for art lessons, and he asked her about having a child since she felt bored.

Kathleen instantly rejected the idea.

Wynnie laughed coldly and said, "Were you the one who raised the idea of having kids?"

"Yeah."

Samuel nodded.

"You fool.Would you have let her go if she didn’t say that?"

Wynnie angrily continued, "You probably told her she’s thinking about something she shouldn’t.Moreover, what are you going to do if Nicolette returns after the both of you have a child?"

Samuel replied, "If Kathleen doesn’t want a child, she can give birth to the child and let Nicolette and I care for the baby.She’s still young, and she can find another man."

Wynnie let out a chuckle from frustration and scolded, "You can’t be my son! I need to check if I took home the wrong child!"

Samuel was at a loss for words.

"I seldom interfere with the issues between you and Kathleen, so you guys can do what you want."

Wynnie coldly said, "You’re such a jerk and are not a match for Kathleen.Plenty of talented young men in my law firm will be a good match for her!"

After that, Wynnie turned to leave.

Samuel frowned.He knew that Grandma liked Kathleen, but he was surprised that Wynnie liked her as well.

What kind of mother-in-law will look out for men for her daughter-in-law? Samuel’s heart clenched, and he was uncomfortable at the thought of his wife who was as cute as a rabbit in the arms of another man.

He went up the stairs, and Kathleen was lying on the bed, hugging her blanket, sound asleep.

They might have unpleasantly parted ways, but Samuel’s anger toward her was usually short-lived and dissipated as quickly as it came.

This sweet peach is too delectable and I can’t stop myself from having a few bites.

Kathleen had an odd habit when she slept.She did not like to wear too much as she felt it was constrictive.

That was why she immediately changed into a pearl-white sheer nightgown when she went upstairs.

At that moment, she was hugging her blanket, and her fair and slender hand and legs were exposed, appearing alluring.

"Kathleen," whispered Samuel as he supported himself on both sides of her body.

Kathleen was sleepy and tired.

She did not even open her eyes when she heard someone calling her.

Instead, she just said in a soft and raspy voice, "Be quiet.I’m sleepy."

She became drowsy very often after getting pregnant.

Samuel grinned and said, "Why don’t I accompany you to sleep?"

He extended his hand and caressed her smooth and soft face.He wondered how she cared for herself as her skin was very smooth.

"No.You’ll crush…"

Kathleen was in a daze, and she wanted to say that he would crush the baby.

Samuel’s face darkened, and he said, "We are not even divorced yet, but you’re already rejecting me?"

She never rejected him usually, aside from the days she had her period or if she did not feel well.He knew when Kathleen’s period was, and it was not time yet.

Kathleen suddenly felt her body dip, surrounded by an intense embrace.

She immediately became wide-awake.

Kathleen watched Samuel, who was hugging her, and froze.

"Samuel Macari?" she asked in shock.

He was upset as she rarely called him by his full name.

She usually called him Sam and did not allow others to call him that, saying it was her exclusive nickname for him.

Kathleen quickly sat up, hugging her blanket, and looked at him nervously.

She knew Samuel loved to misbehave, but she could not allow that as she was pregnant.

Kathleen was willing to indulge him and was happy to do so, but the circumstances were different then.

Samuel did not like Kathleen avoiding him and icily said, "What did you tell my mom?"

Kathleen’s eyes showed how puzzled she was, and she replied, "I didn’t say anything to Wynnie."

"How did Mom find out that Nicolette is back if you didn’t say anything?" asked Samuel unhappily.

"Samuel, Nicolette is not invisible, and many people in Jadeborough know her.

You also let her move into Goodwill Hospital.

Don’t you know how many wealthy people in Jadeborough go there to see the doctors? Won’t they gossip if they saw Nicolette? It’s normal that news may travel into Wynnie’s ears!"

Kathleen was usually gentle, and she never got angry at Samuel.She kept trying to be a good wife, but she finally understood that Samuel would not like her no matter how good she was.

He even wanted her to save her love rival.

Samuel saw her defensive manner and frowned, saying, "I’m just asking."

"Aren’t you suspecting me? You felt that I complained to Grandma and Wynnie because I don’t want to get a divorce."

Kathleen felt wronged.She was not someone like that.

Ever since she married Samuel, she remained silent about the injustice she faced.

However, she was hurt that Samuel would misunderstand her that way.

Does he not have the slightest trust in me even if he doesn’t love me? What am I to him?

Chapter 6 Will You Miss Me

Samuel didn’t deny it.

Kathleen was both furious and frustrated.

However, because of her appearance, she didn’t look intimidating at all even though she was angry.

“Samuel, you’d better listen up,” she said as she looked at him seriously. Her red cheeks were obvious on her fair skin, the straps of her shirt were loose, and her slender legs were exposed. It was a beautiful scene.

Samuel narrowed his eyes at her as his gaze darkened. “What did you just call me?”

“Samuel.” Kathleen was angry, and she felt that she was intimidating enough.

Nonetheless, it wasn’t the case in Samuel’s eyes. To him, she was the same as an angry white kitten with fur erect.

“I’m not that kind of person who goes back on my promise! I’m fine that you wish to get a divorce. I just didn’t want to trigger Grandma since she’s not feeling well. So of course I wouldn’t tell on her because of that!” Kathleen said angrily, her eyes red.

How could he doubt me like this?

When Samuel saw that she was really mad, he said in a gentler tone, “I’ve misunderstood you.”

Kathleen snorted.

Samuel pinched her cheeks. “I’ll help you deshell the crabs later.”

The moment Kathleen heard “crabs,” she felt like throwing up.

Despite that, she had to hold it in when Samuel was in front of her.

“I went to the hospital for a checkup today,” she said in a small voice.

Samuel asked indifferently, “Didn’t you say that you’re not pregnant?”

“Yeah, I’m not. But the doctor said that I have a weak stomach and told me not to eat anything cold.”

So that’s the reason.

Samuel stared at her. “You’re really fragile.”

Kathleen bit her lip. “You’re the one who pampered me so much that I’ve become used to it now. If you continue to mock me, I won’t divorce you since it’s not easy to find anyone who will treat me like you do.”

She regretted it the moment she finished speaking because she knew that Samuel would definitely get mad.

But to her surprise, he didn’t. He merely said, “Even if we’re not together anymore, I’ve told you that you’ll get everything that you deserve. After we’re divorced, you can carry on your life as usual and just act like how you used to be. No one’s going to bully you.”

Kathleen fixed her gaze on him.

Hello, Mr. Liar? You’re bullying me right now!

“Samuel, is Kate up yet? Dinner’s ready.” Wynnie’s voice rang from outside the door.

“Okay! We’re coming!” Samuel replied.

“Hurry up. Christopher’s here too,” Wynnie urged.

“Got it!”

Only then did Wynnie turn and make her way downstairs.

“Wake up.” Samuel looked at Kathleen coldly.

Kathleen asked in surprise, “Why is Christopher here?”

Christopher Morris was Samuel’s older cousin.

His mother was Wynnie’s elder sister, Emily Staines.

Although they were sisters, their personalities were the complete opposite.

Emily was gentler.

“Why are you asking me so many questions?” Samuel asked coldly.

Kathleen was frustrated.

Samuel’s temper was truly something else.

One moment, she felt as though she was in heaven, but the next moment, she felt as though she was in hell.

“Wear something less revealing. We’ve got an outsider tonight,” Samuel reminded.

“An outsider?” Kathleen was confused.

Samuel narrowed his eyes. “Christopher.”

He hated the way Christopher looked at Kathleen the most.

The way Christopher looked at her wasn’t that of a pervert, but it was a look of yearning for something that one couldn’t have.

Even so, Christopher was Samuel’s older cousin, and the two of them were so close that they were inseparable since they were little, so Samuel couldn’t say anything to Christopher.

Kathleen only thought that Samuel was in a bad mood because of Nicolette’s illness. She didn’t even want to argue with him at all.

After she got out of bed, she took a pink V-neck sweater and a pair of white wide-legged pants from the closet before putting them on.

Her collarbone was exquisite, and she had beautiful, fair skin. She looked like a charming and enchanting minx from all angles.

She tied her hair up into a ponytail, exposing her slender and fair neck.

When her fair neck and exquisite-looking collarbone were exposed at the same time, she looked indescribably charming.

Samuel didn’t like that.

He walked over to her and untied her ponytail.

“What are you doing?” Kathleen’s voice was soft.

“It doesn’t look good on you.”

“So what? My hair will get in my way when I eat if I don’t tie it up.” Kathleen stretched out her hand. “Give it back.”

“Nope.” Samuel raised his hand.

Kathleen stood on her tiptoes as she tried to snatch it back.

She was a hundred and sixty-eight centimeters, but in front of Samuel, who was a hundred and ninety centimeters, she was still a shorty.

It didn’t do much help even after she stood on tiptoe.

Her entire body was completely pressed against Samuel’s warm body, and her feeble hand was pressing onto his chest as she put in her entire strength to get back her hair tie.

Even then, she didn’t notice anything.

Ever since they got married, Samuel had never pushed her away.

They were a married couple, so they had done whatever a married couple would do.

Because of that, she was used to being intimate with him.

Suddenly, he put his arms against her slender waist as he leaned down to speak next to her ear. “You’re really stubborn. Why are you still trying to get it when it’s obvious that you can’t reach it? Why don’t you beg me the way you used to?”

Kathleen would have begged him in her mellow voice.

“Sam… Give me back my hair tie. I’ll be a good girl.”

But now, she wouldn’t say it, and he didn’t like the way she was resisting him.

Kathleen pushed him away and looked at him in anger. “That’s because we can’t go back to how things were.”

Samuel was stunned.

Kathleen stretched out her hand. “Give me back my hair tie.”

It was what he wanted her to say, but the look in her eyes and her tone weren’t the same as before anymore.

“No!” Samuel’s handsome face darkened as he walked to the side of the window and threw it out of the window.

“You!” Kathleen gritted her teeth.

Samuel walked out of the room in a huff, rendering her speechless.

Since Kathleen and Samuel rarely came back to sleep over that much, she didn’t have many of her daily necessities with her. Most of her stuff was at the condominium.

The hair tie that Samuel had just thrown out the window was the only one that she had.

Something is definitely wrong with him!

Having no other choice, Kathleen could only go downstairs with her hair down.

Wynnie waved at her. “Come here, Kate.”

Kathleen walked over.

Christopher looked at her with gentle eyes. “Kathleen.”

Kathleen smiled at him sweetly. “Christopher.”

Samuel had a gloomy look on his face.

Christopher’s lips curved upward, but he looked slightly depressed.

Kathleen took her seat between Samuel and Wynnie.

Immediately, Wynnie chose a big crab for her. “Your stomach’s unwell, so you can only eat one.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

Phew. Fortunately, I only need to eat one. But why do I feel like throwing up?

Despite that, she held it in because she didn’t want anyone to notice anything.

Right when she was about to deshell the crab, Samuel snatched it away.

Kathleen swallowed a lump in her throat, her gaze fixated on the crab.

Although she couldn’t stand the smell, it didn’t mean that she couldn’t eat it.

I can still eat one.

“Take your vegetables. Don’t forget what the doctor said,” Samuel said like a strict father.

Kathleen puffed her cheeks as she took her fork.

Christopher looked at her, and there was no telling what he was thinking.

After dinner, Samuel and Christopher went to the study upstairs to discuss some matters.

Kathleen, on the other hand, went to the courtyard.

The Macari family had a big Samoyed called Snowy.

Kathleen and Snowy were very close.

Whenever she came to the Macari residence, she would always play and talk to Snowy.

“Snowy, I don’t think I can come to visit you so often anymore. Will you miss me?” Kathleen asked as she hugged Snowy.

“Why can’t you come to visit it so often anymore? What happened between you and Samuel?” Christopher’s voice was low.

Chapter 7 You Wanted To Marry Me

Kathleen was shocked.

She turned around and saw Christopher. “Oh, Christopher, it’s you.”

Christopher smiled. “Did something happen between you and Samuel?”

“Why do you think so?” Kathleen blinked innocently.

She had tender features with a pair of eyes that sparkled.

“The Yoegers told me Nicolette’s back.” Christopher was very straightforward.

The smile on Kathleen’s face slowly faded. “So everyone knows about it already.”

Everyone in the Yoeger family knew that Kathleen was married to Samuel.

Though Rose Yoeger, the legitimate daughter of the Yoeger family, did not like Nicolette, she liked Samuel.

She had turned up at Samuel and Kathleen’s wedding and insulted Kathleen, saying the latter was overestimating herself for thinking she could turn her life around by being a replacement.

Back then, Kathleen had indeed overestimated herself.

She had thought that she could turn her unlucky life around.

However, life is not something a person can control.

When Christopher saw Kathleen’s dejected look, his heart ached.

He raised his arm, wanting to pat her head. In the end, he only placed it on Snowy.

“Kate, you can come to me if you need any help.” His voice was gentle. “I’ll do whatever I can to help you, just like old times.”

Kathleen tilted her head, frowning. “Christopher, what are you talking about?”

She did not understand what he was saying.

Christopher stared at her, hesitant with his words. “Kathleen, ten years ago—”

“Christopher, you’re still here?” Right then, Wynnie appeared. “I’ve got some big crabs here. Bring them home to your mom. I’m sure she’ll like them.”

“Okay, Aunt Wynnie.” Christopher nodded, reaching out to take the box of crabs from Wynnie.

“Drive safely,” Wynnie reminded.

Christopher nodded again. “Don’t worry, Aunt Wynnie. You should head inside.”

“Okay.” Wynnie glanced at Kathleen and turned around to enter the house.

Once Wynnie entered the house, Kathleen asked softly, “Christopher, what did you just say? What happened ten years ago? Did we know each other back then?”

Christopher’s gaze was gentle. “I’ll tell you later.”

I’ll tell her when she divorces Samuel. It should be the right time by then.

“I’ll get going now,” Christopher said.

Kathleen furrowed her brows, finding Christopher rather odd.

“What were you two talking about?” Samuel stepped out from a dark corner.

By that time, Christopher had already disappeared from their view.

“Nothing much.” Kathleen shook her head.

“But I noticed you two talking for quite some time,” Samuel said icily.

He had seen everything from the second floor.

“We were just exchanging some tips about rearing dogs.”

“Tips about rearing dogs?” Samuel scoffed. “As far as I know, you’re not the one rearing Snowy.”

“That’s right. My dog’s called Sammy,” Kathleen jeered.

Instantly, Samuel knew she was being sarcastic. “Kathleen!”

“Did I say something wrong, you son of a b*tch?” Kathleen became bolder when she was at the Macari residence.

“Looks like you’ve got a death wish.” Samuel tugged at his tie.

Kathleen mustered her courage and said, “Don’t you dare touch me. Otherwise, I’ll show Nicolette all my scars of abuse you created.”

“Don’t you dare!” Samuel’s handsome face darkened.

“I’ll do it if you bully me!” Kathleen decided to go all out.

Why should I shut up when I’m being bullied?

“You sure have some guts.” Samuel was officially angered.

Upon seeing his reaction, Kathleen felt pleased.

“Samuel, Kate, why don’t you two sleep here tonight? You can return tomorrow.” Wynnie walked over.

“Mom, I think it’s best if we go back,” Samuel said coldly. “Kathleen doesn’t feel comfortable staying here.”

“I’ll be fine.” Kathleen tried to go against Samuel’s words. “You can go back if you want to. I’m staying here.”

Samuel was utterly displeased.

If she were to remain in the house, then he could not leave, as it would make Diana suspicious.

However, he had promised Nicolette that he would return.

He narrowed his eyes at Kathleen, hinting at her to cooperate with him.

To his surprise, Kathleen stepped forward and held Wynnie’s arm. “Mom, I’d like to learn about the law from you, especially the Marriage Act.”

“Sure.” Wynnie nodded. “Calvin is on a business trip, so I’m free tonight.”

“Let’s go.” Kathleen smiled faintly, revealing her dimples that made her look pretty and sweet.

Wynnie could not understand why Samuel did not like Kathleen, who was such a likable person.

Samuel could only watch Kathleen leave with a cold gaze.

Kathleen stayed in Wynnie’s bedroom for two hours.

During that time, Samuel had sent Kathleen a message telling her to go home with him, but she had ignored him.

Wynnie was a discerning woman. She knew what was going on the moment she noticed Kathleen’s unhappy expression whenever Kathleen glanced at her phone.

“Mom, I’m going back to my room.” Kathleen faked a yawn.

“Okay.” Wynnie’s eyes were filled with concern. “Kate, no matter what happens, just know that we’re your family, okay?”

Kathleen was taken aback, but she quickly smiled. “Okay.”

She then turned around, walked out of Wynnie’s room, and made her way back to Samuel’s.

As soon as she entered, Samuel grabbed her wrist. His gaze was filled with rage. “Kathleen, stop messing around!”

“Let go, Samuel!” Kathleen’s arm hurt from his grip. “No one’s stopping you from seeing Nicolette. The door is wide open. If you want to go, then go ahead. Why should I cover up for you? You’re such a jerk. Do you know that?”

How could he ignore my feelings like that? What gives him the right to treat me this way?

“You were the one who asked for it,” Samuel uttered coldly. “I said I’d never like you three years ago, yet you still wanted to marry me.”

“Yes, I was too stupid three years ago. I thought I could change your heart during these three years.” Kathleen’s eyes reddened. “Samuel, ten years ago—”

Before she could continue, Samuel’s phone rang.

He took out his phone, and his gaze darkened instantly.

“Yes, Nicolette.” Samuel’s voice was incredibly gentle. It was as though he was coaxing a baby. “I know. Don’t cry. I’ll go back right now.”

With that, he hung up and cast Kathleen an icy look. “Put on your coat and come home with me!”

Kathleen bit her lip. “No!”

She did not want to stay in the cold and empty house alone.

“It’s useless, Kathleen. Do you think you can avoid having a divorce by hiding here?” Samuel pinched her chin. “Think of your uncle. Do you think I’ll let him live a peaceful life if you offend me?”

Kathleen froze.

“Put on your coat.” Samuel released his grip on her. “I’ll wait for you in the car. If you don’t come down in five minutes, then you shall see your uncle’s dead body soon.”

After that, Samuel turned around and left.

Kathleen’s legs gave in instantly; she had to lean against the wall for support.

Her eyes reddened, but she forced herself to hold back her tears.

Samuel is really ruthless. Then again, I’m just a replacement. What was I thinking, expecting him to treat me with care?

She shut her eyes, and tears started rolling down her cheeks.

After some time, she wiped her face with the back of her hand, put on her coat, and went downstairs.

Samuel was already getting impatient waiting in the car.

Upon seeing her arrival, he urged Kathleen to enter the vehicle quickly.

Kathleen got into the backseat.

In the past, she had always sat in the passenger seat.

Her actions made Samuel’s brows twitch. He did not like her silent rebellion.

He preferred her to be gentle and obedient.

Chapter 8 All Alone

“Why aren’t you driving? Isn’t Nicolette waiting for you?” Kathleen asked coldly.

Samuel had wanted Kathleen to take the front passenger seat, but he changed his mind when he heard what she said and started the engine.

Neither of them spoke a word on the way home.

The atmosphere in the car crackled with tension.

Samuel felt that it was all Kathleen’s fault.

If she had behaved like she was before, they would not have argued.

Halfway through the journey, Samuel’s phone rang.

It was Nicolette again.

“What did you say? I’ll go over immediately.” Samuel suddenly stopped the car and turned to Kathleen. “Get down. I’ll ask Tyson to come and take you home.”

Kathleen refused to move.

“Get down.”

“It’s almost twelve. Are you going to leave a girl here all by herself?” Kathleen’s heart wrenched.

“Tyson will be here in five minutes.”

Kathleen felt a sickening lurch in her heart. Her face was drained of color.

Biting her lip, she got out of the car.

“Five minutes. Tyson will be here soon. Wait here,” Samuel said.

Kathleen lowered her head and kept quiet.

She had nothing to say to Samuel anymore.

Even if Samuel did not have any feelings for her, he should know that it was not safe to leave a girl by the road at this hour.

Yet he had chosen to leave her by the road.

Samuel glanced at Kathleen. For some reason, he felt awful seeing her head hung low.

Just then, his phone rang again.

Nicolette needed him now.

Without hesitation, Samuel drove away.

Tears ran down Kathleen’s cheeks, falling to the ground.

Five minutes later, Tyson arrived to pick her up.

However, there was no one on the road.

Where is Mrs. Macari?

Tyson tried to call Kathleen.

However, no one answered the phone.

Sensing that something was not right, Tyson quickly gave Samuel a call.

“Did you find her? Remember to send her home safely. If she’s hungry, ask—” Samuel started talking the minute he picked up Tyson’s call.

“Mr. Macari, Mrs. Macari is missing,” Tyson said in a quavering voice.

“Missing?” Samuel frowned.

“Yes. There’s no one on the road. I tried calling Mrs. Macari, but no one answered the phone.” Tyson was starting to feel nervous.

“Send some men to look for her. You must find her no matter what,” Samuel bellowed.

What should I do if something happens to her?

“Okay.” Tyson hung up the phone and ordered some men to search for Kathleen with him.

However, they could not find her within a ten-kilometer radius.

Tyson checked the surveillance cameras and got the shock of his life.

Indeed, Kathleen had met with a bad guy.

A man who appeared to be drunk had dragged her into an alley.

Tyson’s face turned ashen, and he called Samuel immediately.

Stunned, Samuel said, “I’ll be right there.”

He stood up and was about to leave when Nicolette tugged at his sleeve. “Samuel, what’s the matter?”

“Something happened to Kathleen.”

“Something happened to Kathleen?” Nicolette pursed her lips. “Is she deliberately causing trouble because she doesn’t want to divorce you?”

“No.” Samuel was very sure that it was not planned by Kathleen. He knew her to be a very simple person.

“All right, then. Go quickly and come back soon. I’ll wait for you,” Nicolette said.

Samuel nodded and walked out.

Nicolette bit her lip. Kathleen, you’re really scheming, but it’s no use. Samuel is mine.

Samuel rushed to the scene where Kathleen had gone missing.

Tyson handed a phone to him. “Mr. Macari, this is Mrs. Macari’s phone. There’s blood on it.”

A chill ran down Samuel’s spine. “Go find her! I want her dead or alive!”

“Understood!” Tyson nodded and immediately ordered his men to search again.

Samuel’s knuckles whitened as he gripped Kathleen’s phone. He prayed hard that nothing had happened to her.

“Oh my god!” Gemma Young was shocked to see Benjamin Young carrying a girl, who was smeared with blood, into the house.

“Stop talking nonsense! Move aside!” Benjamin growled.

Gemma quickly moved to one side as Benjamin placed Kathleen on the couch.

Gemma walked over. “Isn’t she… Kathleen?”

“Yes. Bring me a towel.” Benjamin’s eyes were fixed on Kathleen.

“Okay.” Gemma went to the bathroom and handed a wet towel to Benjamin. “Benjamin, what happened?”

“I was on my way here to look for you when I saw a drunkard harassing a girl. I only realized that she was Kathleen after I saved her.” Benjamin helped Kathleen wipe her face.

“Why is there blood?” Gemma frowned.

“It belongs to the drunkard. She’s not hurt.”

Gemma folded her arms. “Benjamin, shouldn’t you send her to the hospital?”

“She asked me not to send her to the hospital before she passed out.”

“Why?” Gemma did not understand at all.

“How would I know?” Benjamin shrugged. “I’ll leave her with you. I’m leaving.”

“Benjamin, where are you going? You have blood all over you. Will someone call the police if they see you in this state?” Gemma was worried about her brother.

“I am the police. Who are they going to call? I’m going to the police station to check who her family is and give them a call.”

Gemma’s face darkened. “Does she still have any family? She’s like us. Our parents are no longer around.”

“I’ll still have to check.”

Kathleen had muttered the name “Sam” when she was conscious.

Benjamin thought Sam must be her family, possibly her boyfriend.

They had not seen each other for so long. Benjamin was not surprised that she now had a boyfriend. However, he was a little heartbroken.

Benjamin left after instructing Gemma, “If Kathleen wakes up, ask her who else is there in her family. Give them a call and get them to pick her up. If she refuses to say, leave her alone. Don’t force her.”

Gemma looked at Kathleen’s ashen face and sighed.

She was wiping Kathleen’s face with a towel when Kathleen opened her eyes.

“You’re awake.” Gemma sounded relieved.

Stunned, Kathleen looked at Gemma in a daze. “Gem?”

“Oh, you still remember me? I thought you’ve forgotten about me ever since you were adopted by the Macari family,” Gemma teased.

Kathleen paused for a while. “I wasn’t adopted by the Macari family.”

“Whatever it is, I’m glad that you’re awake. Do you feel uncomfortable anywhere?” Gemma started to examine Kathleen.

It had been so many years, and Kathleen was still as beautiful as before.

“I’m feeling fine. Where is this place?” Kathleen pursed her lips.

“My house. My brother saved you. He asked me to call your family once you’re awake, in case they get worried.”

Kathleen looked up in bewilderment. “I don’t have any family.”

She would have nothing after she divorced Samuel.

Gemma said wistfully, “That’s right. We have no family. We are all alone now.”

“You still have Benjamin,” Kathleen corrected her.

Gemma sighed. “Oh, do you want to give the Macari family a call?”

Call the Macari family? What will Samuel do if he knows about it?

Kathleen was put in a spot. If Diana and Wynnie knew that Samuel had left her alone late at night, and she had almost been molested by a drunkard, Diana would know that Samuel had gone to look for Nicolette.

It would incur Samuel’s wrath.

Chapter 9 Emergency Contact

“That won’t be necessary. Old Mrs. Macari is in poor health, so it would be better if you don’t tell her, lest she worry for me,” Kathleen said.

“Have you been alone throughout the years?” Gemma hung her head low as she sat beside Kathleen.

“I suppose,” Kathleen replied.

“You suppose? What does that mean?” Gemma was confused.

Kathleen smiled ruefully.

Ever since marrying Samuel, she was mostly alone even though it seemed as if they lived together.

“Kathleen, you’re quite lucky. You at least have Old Mrs. Macari.” Gemma sounded depressed. “My brother and I are different. Neither of us was of legal age. Nobody wanted to adopt the both of us together, so we were forcefully separated when adopted by different families.”

“So that was what happened.” Kathleen pulled her lips into a thin line.

“Jeez, why am I even telling you this?” Gemma’s expression reverted to its former state. “I need to go to a night shift at the hospital later on. You take care.”

“It’s fine. I’ll leave after getting some rest.” Kathleen knew she shouldn’t have met up with Gemma, for both of them had varying degrees of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Their parents’ passing had caused great hurt to their young and fragile hearts.

Because there were hurt that would never heal, these kinds of people had come to a tacit agreement to not meet up with each other.

Without meeting each other, they would never be forced to recall those painful memories.

“Kathleen!” Gemma sounded slightly exasperated, causing Kathleen to pause for a moment.

Realizing that she might have said that a little too loud, Gemma softened her tone. “It’s fine. This place is your home too. I have clean clothes in my room, so you can put them on after taking a shower. There’s still some oatmeal that I made last night in the kitchen. Have some after heating it.”

Gemma went to get changed as she spoke and was ready to leave after putting on her coat.

“Gemma, are you working in a hospital now?” asked Kathleen.

“I work as a nurse now.” Gemma didn’t look back. “Kathleen, I’ve already moved on, so it’s fine. It’s okay even if you have troubles that you can’t talk about to me. Just stay without worrying about anything else.”

She left after saying that.

Kathleen heaved a long sigh.

She knew both Gemma and her were dealt the heaviest blows during the incident because both of them had witnessed first-hand the horrible death of their parents.

Kathleen’s eyes reddened as she was on the verge of tears, but she managed to force them back when she lowered her head to check the blood on herself.

She entered Gemma’s room and took a change of clothes before going into the shower.

After showering, she checked on her belly in the mirror before reaching a fair hand out to caress it softly. “Do not fear, my baby. I will protect you!”

To her disappointment, tears still fell when she recalled the fact that it was Samuel who had put her in such danger.

Samuel will never care about my state of being. He must be all lovey-dovey with Nicolette in his arms while in the hospital.

On the road, Samuel was leaning against his Maybach while puffing on a cigarette.

He was chain-smoking, so cigarette butts were littered all over the ground around him.

It was almost the break of dawn, but he had yet to uncover Kathleen’s whereabouts.

His fingers gripped her phone tightly as his heart trembled nonstop.

Will she die? Will she disappear from my life entirely? No! I won’t allow this to happen!

“Mr. Macari!” Tyson ran over to him. “We’ve found the drunken man who abducted Mrs. Macari.”

“Bring him over,” Samuel ordered in an aloof tone.

When two bodyguards brought the drunken man over to him, the man was already battered and bruised all over his body and face.

“What have you done to that woman?” Samuel lifted his gaze, a distant look in his eyes.

The drunken man was jostled awake and was aware that Samuel wasn’t someone he could afford to cross, so he said, “I’ve done nothing.”

“Chop his hand off.” Samuel didn’t even blink.

One of the bodyguards immediately unsheathed a dagger.

Upon noticing that Samuel was being serious, the drunken man fell to his knees before Samuel while begging for mercy, “Please don’t chop my hands off! I’ll tell you anything!”

“Speak.” Samuel looked intimidating.

“I was in a bad mood because I just had a divorce. Lust overtook me when I saw a beautiful woman standing beside the road, but I didn’t do anything to her. A man saved her and brought her away as soon as I dragged her into an alley.”

“Which hand did you use to touch her?” questioned Samuel.

The drunken man dared not answer his question.

“Chop both his hands off since he doesn’t have the guts to reply.” Samuel’s exquisite jawline was tensed up as he maintained a cool, refined look.

“No, please don’t! It’s this hand!” The drunken man raised his left hand.

Still smoking, Samuel said, “How dare you lie? You touched her with both hands. Chop them both off.”

The drunken man nearly fainted from shock.

Why ask if you’ve already made up your mind?

“Argh!” Just when the drunken man was spacing out, the bodyguard chopped one of his hands off with a clean swipe of his dagger, causing the man to howl in agony.

The other bodyguard covered his mouth before his other hand was also chopped off.

“Discard this scum to a deserted place,” ordered Samuel with a stern voice.

“Yes, Sir!”

The two bodyguards left, dragging the drunken man away with them, while the other bodyguards stayed behind to clean up the scene.

“Check the surveillance footage of the back alley and find out who rescued Kathleen,” Samuel instructed in a detached manner.

Just when Tyson was about to make a call, he got an unexpected call.

“Hello?” Tyson picked up. “Who are you?”

“Are you Kathleen’s family?” asked Benjamin distantly.

“Is Kathleen with you?” Tyson frowned.

Samuel narrowed his eyes as he snatched the phone away from Tyson. “Where’s Kathleen?”

Benjamin was startled. “How are you related to Kathleen?”

Samuel replied sternly, “I’m her brother.”

“All of her family members are dead. She doesn’t have any surviving relatives.” Benjamin didn’t believe in that. “Who exactly are you?”

“How did you manage to track down Tyson?” Samuel was displeased.

Why would he call Tyson when I should be the one who’s closest to her?

“I got his phone number from the emergency contact list Kathleen has filled during the recent years.” Benjamin was unfazed. “Can you pass the phone back to Mr. Hackney?”

It’s not me but Tyson, who she listed as her emergency contact?

Samuel didn’t feel good about it at all.

While passing the phone back to Tyson, he said emotionlessly, “Ask him about Kathleen’s whereabouts.”

“Understood.” Tyson took the phone and asked Benjamin where Kathleen was.

“She’s safe, but I need to confirm this with her before I can tell you her whereabouts. I will contact you again.” Benjamin hung up after saying that.

Tyson didn’t know what to say as he looked at Samuel with a gloomy look. “Mr. Macari, he said he would have to check this with Mrs. Macari before he could tell us her whereabouts.”

“Start an investigation about the caller.” Samuel sounded impassive. “I want information about him before the sun is up.”

“Yes, Sir.” Tyson immediately sent someone for the investigation.

All the while, Samuel puffed on his cigarette, still feeling disturbed deep down.

Although he had found Kathleen, he had no idea what her situation was.

Why didn’t she contact me if she’s fine? Shouldn’t she have come to me first and foremost after such a grave incident?

Chapter 10 Get The Papers Signed

Benjamin rang the doorbell after he finished his call.

Kathleen was standing inside when the door opened.

She had just finished her shower, and her face was still pale.

“I bought some pizza.” Benjamin did not know how to react when he saw Kathleen’s expression.

They felt awkward meeting each other because they had experienced the same trauma.

“Thank you.” Kathleen took a step back and allowed Benjamin to enter.

Benjamin walked to the table and put down the pizza in his hand. “It’s still hot. Eat up.”

“Gemma went to work the night shift.” Kathleen pursed her lips. “I didn’t expect her to become a nurse. She’s amazing.”

Benjamin froze for a moment. “Nothing is amazing about it. There are many nurses out there who are better than her.”

Kathleen shook her head. “She’s really amazing, especially after that matter.”

“Have you been doing well?” Benjamin asked in a hoarse voice.

“Yes.” Kathleen took her seat.

Benjamin took a cigarette box out of his pocket.

Kathleen hesitated before saying, “Benjamin, can you not smoke in the house?”

“I’m sorry.” Benjamin felt awkward. He did that because he was too nervous.

Kathleen ate the pizza slowly. “Thank you for saving me.”

“Don’t go out so late next time.” Benjamin’s heart ached for her. “Even if you have an emergency, find someone to accompany you. Don’t go out alone at night.”

“Okay.” Kathleen nodded.

“I called a man named Tyson, but I didn’t tell him you’re here. I wanted to ask you first.” Benjamin looked at her. “Should I ask him to come here?”

Kathleen shook her head. “It’s okay. It’s bright outside. I can go home alone.”

“All right.” Benjamin nodded as he sized Kathleen up.

He had many words to say, but he held himself back.

Who am I to interfere with her matters now? She’s married, and the man named Tyson is not her husband. Is her marriage that painful to her? Is that why she has…

Knock! Knock!

Suddenly, someone knocked on the door.

Kathleen and Benjamin exchanged glances.

“Is that Gemma?” Kathleen was shocked.

“She doesn’t get off until noon,” said Benjamin as he went to open the door.

He opened the door and saw a handsome, elegant-looking man in his long black coat. He seemed unfriendly, judging from his looks.

Benjamin recalled seeing this handsome man.

He’s Samuel Macari, the CEO of Macari Group and the head of the Macari family. He’s also Old Mrs. Macari’s grandson and Kathleen’s husband.

“Benjamin, who is it?” Kathleen walked to the door.

She froze when she saw Samuel.

He came rather quickly.

Kathleen knew it would be a matter of time for Samuel to find her once someone contacted Tyson.

Samuel narrowed his eyes and stared at Kathleen coldly.

Kathleen was wearing a pink hoodie with a cartoon figure printed on it and a pair of grey sweatpants. Her hair was tied up in a bun, which made her look cute and fresh.

She still looks like an eighteen-year-old university student though she’s already twenty-three. She looks so fresh and charming.

Instantly, anger surged within Samuel.

How dare she stay in a stranger’s house? Doesn’t she know how dangerous the world is?

“Come with me!” Samuel’s voice was deep and cold.

“How did you find this place?” There were no emotions in Kathleen’s voice. “You could have just sent Tyson to pick me up. Why did you come?”

Kathleen knew she was a nobody in Samuel’s heart.

She did not expect him to care about her, not even the slightest.

Samuel did not like the way Kathleen was looking at her, as well as the way she spoke to him.

He walked toward Kathleen with a dark expression.

Kathleen was so terrified that she took a step backward and knocked onto the table behind her.

“Be careful!” Benjamin was worried.

Samuel held Kathleen’s wrist, pulled her into his arms, and said in a low voice, “Kathleen, he’s just a police officer. He’s not a difficult opponent to me. Are you sure you want to argue with me here?”

Kathleen froze.

Samuel was threatening her again. He knew she had a soft heart.

He knew how to use her weakness to his advantage and threaten her with someone he could make use of.

“I’ll go with you,” said Kathleen as she lowered her head.

Kathleen was grateful that Benjamin had helped her. She could not bear to trouble him again.

Gemma only had Benjamin, and Kathleen did not want to get the siblings involved.

Benjamin stared at Kathleen with concern. “Kathleen, if you don’t want to go back—”

“I’m going back.” Kathleen did not look at Benjamin as he had been sensitive since he was young and could observe the emotional change in people around him quickly.

“Thank you for saving her, Mr. Young. You will be rewarded after this.”

“It’s okay. I didn’t save her for rewards,” Benjamin rejected.

“Hmph. Mr. Young, you’re an orphan, and your biological family doesn’t welcome you. If you become rich one day, they will treat you differently. So keep it.” Samuel sounded really arrogant.

“Samuel, that’s enough.” Kathleen was furious.

Who does he think he is? How could he humiliate Benjamin like that?

Samuel stared at the woman, who was inches shorter than him. This is the first time she has thrown a tantrum at me because of a stranger.

The more she acted that way, the angrier Samuel got.

How is she related to this man? Why is she defending him?

Kathleen thought Samuel was being ruthless. Furthermore, he had left her on the streets and something bad had almost happened to her.

Kathleen pursed her lips and went straight out without turning back.

Samuel’s expression fell. Why is she acting like this?

He went after her, and they arrived at the vehicle.

“Kathleen, how dare you give me this attitude because of some random man?” A vicious glare appeared on Samuel’s handsome face.

“I’m not giving you an attitude because of a man. Samuel, do you know what would have happened to me if not for Benjamin?” Kathleen’s eyes reddened.

Her tears made her look pitiful and less lethal.

“I almost got taken forcefully! Do you know what that means?” Kathleen was trembling. “If you were human, you wouldn’t have left me, a woman, on the streets alone just so you could meet your mistress. Do you know what I was going through when you were flirting and snuggling with the mistress?”

Samuel panicked. “I didn’t mean it.”

“You didn’t mean it?” Kathleen’s tears started streaming down her cheeks. “I’ve reminded you, yet you didn’t bother about my safety. Even if I die, you will not even bat an eyelid.”

“I…” Samuel knew he was wrong.

He didn’t expect her to be in danger in five minutes.

Sniffling, she continued, “Samuel, you never cared about me. You never even tried to get to know me.”

Samuel remained silent.

“Samuel, I don’t like to eat crabs. Do you know why I started to like them? It’s because you would remove the shells for me.”

Samuel reached out as he wanted to hug her.

It broke his heart to see Kathleen cry.

Kathleen pushed his hands away. “Don’t touch me! You’ve touched Nicolette with these hands, so don’t touch me!”

Samuel was stunned, and his gaze darkened.

“Samuel, it’s not that I don’t want to divorce you. Grandma is not well, and I’m afraid she can’t take the news.” Kathleen wiped away her tears. “We can get a divorce and hide the news from Grandma until the right time arrives. Let’s go to the City Hall to get the papers signed tomorrow.”