Ch. 31..40

Chapter 31

“Dad, how are you going to help me?” Kathleen frowned.

“It can be deemed that Samuel is cheating on the marriage. We just have to get the proof that he’s cheating and send it to the court. Let the court decide on your divorce,” Calvin said.

Kathleen was baffled.

Is Samuel really his son? Why does it look like he’s more like my own father? It seems like the Macari family doesn’t even like Samuel.

Embarrassed, she reminded him by saying, “But Dad, he’s your son.”

“We treat you just like our daughter. As both of you are my children, I love the two of you dearly.” Then, he gave her a meaningful look. “Anyway, it’s his loss if you are to be divorced.”

Kathleen was touched by his words. “Dad, thank you. But I wish to settle this matter with Samuel amicably.”

After all, it would be possible that we might bump into each other even after the divorce. There’s no need for the situation to be this tense.

At that moment, Calvin’s phone rang.

When he answered the call, his voice was cold. “The other party needs an interpreter because he’s from Granatano? Go to the Faculty of Foreign Studies and find someone who is proficient in Granatanolan.”

Kathleen spoke suddenly. “Dad, I can speak that language. Is there anything that I can help you with?”

Surprised, Calvin said, “Can you?”

She nodded in acknowledgment.

“That’s very good. Why don’t you go upstairs and change your clothes? We will need to go to the company later. An expert from Granatano has arrived. But he doesn’t speak Ustranasion.”

“Okay.” She immediately left to change her clothes.

Meanwhile, Calvin returned to the call and said to his assistant, “I’ll be there soon.”

Having said that, he hung up the phone.

In the meantime, Kathleen went to change her clothes. She took out a white blouse and a knee-length pleated skirt from the closet. If the two garments were to be paired, it would give her a beautiful and elegant look.

Moreover, there was a small necktie underneath the collar of the white blouse. It made the outfit look professional.

Coupled with her stunning face, it would mesmerize anyone in an instant.

After she had prepared herself, she exited the house with Calvin.

It was her first time to the company.

In fact, she had never been there in her entire life.

After she had married Samuel, he told her not to go to the company. It was to prevent the others from knowing her identity as he was worried that it would affect his reputation.

During that time, she did not want to cause him any trouble. Thus, she had followed his request willingly.

However, this time around, she was there to help Calvin. She did not have any intention of meeting Samuel.

“Dad, is it possible if you don’t tell anyone that I’m your daughter-in-law when we arrive at the office?” Kathleen asked awkwardly.

With a frown, Calvin asked, “Is this a request from Samuel?”

She nodded.

“Why does he have so many requests? Have you requested anything from him?” He was curious to know the answer.

Embarrassed, she answered, “I’ve never requested anything from him.”

Calvin was at a loss for words.

Thinking that she had let him down, she felt guilty in an instant.

With a sigh, Calvin said, “Kate, you’ve gone so easy on Samuel. That’s the reason why he’s behaving this way.”

Why is she indulging him too much?

Sheepishly, Kathleen lowered her head.

“I’m not scolding you, but you are his wife. Why didn’t you request something from him?” Calvin was perplexed by her attitude.

The answer was so obvious to Kathleen that she was confused to hear his question.

It’s because Samuel doesn’t love me. I’m afraid that he won’t be able to accept my requests. In the end, he will ignore me.

Feeling the onset of a headache, Calvin relented. “Very well. You have my word.”

“Thank you, Dad.” She pursed her lip before saying, “No, that’s not right. I should call you Mr. Macari.”

Calvin was not in a good mood after having his identity changed from being her father-in-law to an acquaintance.

Why do I get a feeling like my daughter’s not coming home after she marries someone else? That rascal Samuel! It is all thanks to him that I’m so disappointed. If he dares to marry Nicolette, I will kick him out of the company. What a useless son!

Half an hour later, they arrived at the office.

Calvin took Kathleen inside.

Meanwhile, Simon Lowe, his assistant, was already waiting for them.

Simon gave Kathleen a temporary work ID tag. “This is for your access.”

“Okay.” She took the tag offered to her and hung it around her neck. The ID tag had her name on it.

“Let’s go. It’s time to meet the expert,” Calvin said coolly.

“Yes, sir.” Simon then led both of them to the room.

The fact that Calvin brought a young woman to the company had piqued everyone’s curiosity in an instant.

They started to discuss it among themselves. “Am I seeing it wrongly? I saw Mr. Macari bring a young and beautiful woman to our company.”

“That can’t be right. Is there no more true love in this world? But Mr. Macari has been in love with Ms. Staines for almost thirty years. There’s never a single scandal or bad rumor. Is the young lady really that beautiful?”

“Yes, she is very beautiful. Her face is petite, just like the size of my palm. She has a pair of huge and round eyes. On top of that, her skin is flawless.”

“Wow! Has Mr. Macari changed his preference from a domineering woman to a timid young girl?”

“Stop the nonsense. I’ve already asked them about it. Mr. Macari brought her here to be the Granatanolan interpreter.”

“Why is he bothered by such a petty matter? He can just ask Simon to do it. I saw the woman coming out of his car. She’s with him.”

“After listening to you, I want to take a look as well.”

Upon hearing their discussions, Tyson coughed lightly. Then, in a cold voice, he said, “Have you finished all your work? I can see that you still have the energy to chat here. Are the overtime tasks for the past two days not enough?”

Frightened, no one dared to say anything.

He added icily, “Mind your words. How dare you gossip about Mr. Macari. Are you courting death?”

Lowering their heads, the staff continued to work.

Tyson left and headed to Samuel’s office.

“I told you to take the report. Why are you back here?” Samuel asked coldly.

“Mr. Macari, I heard that Mr. Calvin has brought a Granatanolan interpreter to the company,” Tyson answered sullenly.

“So what about it?” Samuel probed in an icy tone.

Tyson smiled sheepishly. “I am just curious. It’s rumored that Mr. Calvin found the interpreter himself.”

Lifting his head, Samuel responded, “It’s nothing surprising for him to know some people who speak Granatanolan.”

Tyson merely flashed an awkward smile. “That’s true.”

Frowning, Samuel asked, “You won’t bring up this matter without any reason. What is it?”

“It’s just that everyone suspects that Mr. Calvin and the interpreter…” Tyson hesitated before continuing, “But I’ve warned them about it. Don’t worry, Mr. Macari.”

Samuel did not believe that Calvin would do anything wrong to Wynnie.

He knew how deeply in love the two were.

By the look of the rumors circulating in the building, he was curious to know how beautiful the interpreter was.

“Let’s go and take a look.” Samuel put down his pen before standing up.

Meanwhile, Tyson was slightly stunned. However, he could only follow Samuel obediently.

Meanwhile, Kathleen was helping Calvin with the interpretations.

As it was related to some very technical jargon, Simon and the others were worried that Kathleen would not be able to interpret it well.

However, Kathleen’s performance was beyond everyone’s expectations.

From her expression, they could see that she was not nervous at all.

Moreover, her interpretations was very accurate.

“Mr. Bach, Mr. Macari is pleased to welcome you once again to our country. We hope that you’ll have a good time,” she said.

Johann Bach then replied in Granatanolan, “Miss, your interpretation is very fluent and accurate. There’s a banquet tonight. May I invite you to be my date for the dance?”

“No, you can’t.” A cold and low voice was heard coming from behind her.

Chapter 32

Everyone was very surprised to know that it was Samuel’s voice.

Calvin cast him a side glance.

What is this? A certain sense of possessiveness?

“Of course, Mr. Bach. It’s my pleasure.” Kathleen offered her hand to Johann.

Happily, the latter took her hand and shook it.

Then, he went out with his team.

Once again, everyone had their eyes on Samuel and Kathleen.

Why did Samuel object to that?

Calvin started to give out instructions. “Simon, prepare an evening gown for Kathleen. Also, set an appointment with a make-up artist.”

“Yes, sir.” Simon nodded.

Samuel turned to look at Calvin calmly. “Dad, what is this about?”

“Kathleen wants to go to the banquet. I’m helping her with the evening gown.” He continued darkly, “Ever since you and Kate… In short, Kate has her own freedom. She doesn’t need you to control her life.”

Samuel’s face darkened.

Meanwhile, Kathleen looked at Calvin with admiration.

No wonder he’s the father of the bossy director!

Subsequently, Samuel narrowed his eyes at her.

He noticed that she was wearing a beautiful outfit that day. It complimented her skin in a way that showed her fair and unblemished complexion.

Moreover, she had a sweet and innocent smile.

When he arrived, he saw that everyone had their eyes on her.

It made him extremely displeased.

“Kate, let’s go to my office. You need to jot down the translations and print them out before handing them to me,” Calvin said coolly.

“Sure!” She was more than willing to follow him.

I don’t want to see Samuel’s darkened expression. He makes it look like I’ve owed him five million!

Calvin took Kathleen to leave the place.

Samuel, meanwhile, looked at her retreating back with a cold expression in his eyes. He was displeased.

When Kathleen was in Calvin’s office, she typed the translations down. Then, she printed the document out and gave it to him.

After perusing it for a while, the man said, “You’ve done a good job. When did you learn Granatanolan?”

How can we not know that she’s fluent in this?

“Dad, have you forgotten about it? My parents were in the medical field. They needed to translate the foreign materials themselves. When I was young, I always spent time with my father reading journals. Thus, I learned it little by little,” she explained.

He nodded. “If your parents are still alive, it’s possible that you will also be a doctor after being raised in that kind of environment.”

However, she disagreed with his remarks. “I don’t want to become a doctor now.”

When she sat for her university entrance exam, she could choose medical as her university course.

Nevertheless, she gave up on the idea in the end.

Unable to face the trauma of losing her parents, she knew that she would not be able to even hold the scalpel. If she were to force herself, it could bring trouble for the patients.

It was also the reason why she chose to enroll in the film academy.

Nonetheless, she gave up the acting career as well.

Fortunately, she would still have many options on how to live her life even if she were to get a divorce.

Thus, she was not worried at all.

Calvin said, “Why don’t you go and have some rest? We can go to the banquet together after I’ve finished my work.”

Kathleen nodded. “Okay. I’ll take my leave.”

Suddenly, he asked, “Is this your first time in the company?”

Again, she nodded faintly. “Yes.”

“Why don’t you go to the rooftop? It’s a very interesting place.” Calvin started to recommend her places to go.

She let out a faint smile and said, “All right.”

Having said that, she left the room.

Calvin sighed. What an innocent and naive daughter-in-law! It will be a waste if she falls for someone else.

Finally, Kathleen arrived at the rooftop.

She did not expect that the view would be so beautiful.

Moreover, they built a small garden with flowers and trees. There was also a small pond with colorful fish.

This is incredible. No wonder Dad told me that the view on the rooftop is interesting. Unfortunately, I didn’t bring any fish pellets or bread. If I had, I could feed the fish here. It’s fascinating that they are all sparkling under the sunlight.

After that, she put her hands together and closed her eyes. “Dear lucky fishes, I pray that my divorce with Samuel will be successful. If it goes well, I will feed you the premium fish pellets.”

“Your wish won’t come true.” Samuel’s voice was cold and menacing.

Stunned, Kathleen stood up and turned to look at him. When he was approaching her, the aura that he was exuding was cold and ruthless. It could be because he had worn a black shirt and a pair of black trousers.

With a frown, she said, “Why? It can’t be because they only listen to you.”

He snorted.

Then, he sat down and took out a bag of fish pellets. After that, he threw the pellets into the pond.

In a split second, the school of fish swam to eat the food.

“I’m the one who raises them. If they can make your wish come true, I will cook them,” he said coldly.

Kathleen was at a loss for words.

“I don’t believe it.” Grabbing a handful of fish pellets from the bag in his hand, she threw them into the pond.

Weirdly enough, the fish dispersed immediately.

Again, she was rendered speechless. “What is there to be afraid of? He wouldn’t dare to eat you even after cooking you.”

The school of fish swam further away.

At that time, she began to doubt herself.

Can they actually understand what I’m saying?

Upon seeing her frustration and angry expression, Samuel felt his mood becoming better.

Subsequently, he grabbed a handful of fish pellets and threw it again into the pond.

The fish swam back happily.

Kathleen’s mouth twitched in anger.

“Even the fish bullies me.” Her voice was soft and meek even when she was angry.

It would only make people like her even more.

“Why are you here?” Samuel asked icily.

Gently, she explained, “You don’t have to remind me about it. I remember that you told me not to come to the company. But Dad needs an interpreter who speaks Granatanolan. Thus, here I am. Besides, I didn’t go to see you. Moreover, I didn’t reveal our relationship and my identity. You don’t have to worry. In fact, I’m more afraid to let other people know than you.”

“Why are you afraid?” He frowned.

“If we can get a divorce quietly, no one else knows that I will have a second marriage except my husband.” She continued sullenly, “If everyone knows that we’re married, they will know that I will be married for the second time later in the future. I’m not stupid to cause unnecessary trouble for myself.”

He was annoyed to hear her repeating the words again and again. She keeps mentioning a second marriage. It’s as if she has found a candidate to replace me!

Then, he said indifferently, “That Johann is a pervert. You can’t dance with him.”

“Haha! I can’t say for sure that he’s a pervert. But don’t you think that you should mind your own business?” Kathleen frowned. “We will be divorced soon. Now that you will be my ex-husband, you don’t have the right to stop me from dancing with other men. Will you still control my life after our divorce? Who gives you the right to do so?”

Samuel was furious.

After throwing all the fish pellets into the pond, he grabbed her arm. With an icy tone, he warned, “I don’t have the right to control your life? Kathleen, let me tell you something. Even if we are divorced,

I’m still your family. Thus, I can control your life!”

She retorted angrily, “Samuel, are you insane? I can tell you this. After we get a divorce, I will think of everyone as my family except you! There’s nothing between us after we divorce. Don’t even think of having a relationship with me. I refuse to let you—”

Before she could finish her sentence, Samuel had pressed his lips against hers.

However, they did not know that a helicopter had flown by just in the nick of time.

There was a photographer inside the helicopter. On that particular day, he was there to take photos of the view of the city.

It was a collaboration with a television station to do live streaming. As such, he managed to capture the image of Samuel kissing Kathleen.

Instantly, that footage went viral on the internet.

Chapter 33

“What else would I want?” Kathleen asked in puzzlement.

“Think about it. Do you want to have fun alone?” Samuel reminded.

At that, Kathleen suddenly thought of something. “Oh! I can’t spend all your money eating alone. So, I’m going to invite my friends as well!”

Samuel was rendered speechless.

He started to doubt if Kathleen had fallen for him.

“I hope that you will choke on your food,” said Samuel indifferently.

Kathleen snorted and replied, “I know what you mean, but I’m not of such a low standard. No matter how lonely I am, I will have other ways to make myself less lonely. I will never cheat on you or be with another man. I’ll fulfill my duties in marriage, and I won’t go overboard. I’m not like you, Samuel. Marriage is sacred, but you treat it as bondage. For me, it’s not.”

Samuel looked at her frostily. “Marrying a man who doesn’t love you, and you call this kind of marriage sacred?”

Kathleen’s face turned pale at that.

Samuel’s words had cut deep into her heart instantly.

It took a lot of effort for her not to cry in front of him, but his words caused her heart to ache terribly.

She felt the resentment and hatred bubbling from within at that instant.

She tried her best not to cry and care, but his remark was a hard blow.

It’s fine if he knew the truth, but why did he choose to say it?

Samuel never thought that Kathleen would cry.

Without saying anything, she wiped her tears away and stormed toward the exit.

Samuel’s eyes darkened as he stared at her.

Why is she crying all of a sudden? She is so fragile. Did I say something wrong?

Samuel got down from the rooftop.

Tyson walked toward him. “M-Mr. Macari.”

“Why are you stuttering?” Samuel asked coldly.

“The scene of you and Mrs. Macari on the rooftop just now was broadcasted. Besides, Ms. Staines publicly stated that she would not allow you to marry Ms. Yoeger. Now, everyone is discussing this,” reported Tyson.

Samuel knitted his brows. “Did anyone find out Kathleen’s identity?”

“Not at the moment.” Tyson shook his head and added, “Besides, Mr. Calvin had warned everyone in the company not to say anything about this matter.”

“I can’t control what my mom says, but keep an eye on this matter. As long as they don’t discover Kathleen’s identity, everything’s fine,” said Samuel.

After all, the most important thing at that moment is to protect Kathleen’s privacy.

“Yes, I understand.” Tyson nodded and continued, “One more thing, Mr. Macari. Your phone keeps ringing. It’s a call from Ms. Yoeger.”

That incident spread all over the internet. How would Nicolette not be concerned about it?

“Okay,” replied Samuel indifferently.

Back at his office, his phone was still ringing.

Picking up the phone, he said, “Hello?”

“Samuel, how could you kiss her?” Nicolette asked while sobbing.

How could I kiss her? Why can’t I kiss her? She is my wife!

Samuel was frustrated. “Nicolette, you should know that I have kissed her countless times during the past three years. Don’t tell me that you’re going to fuss over all those.”

Nicolette froze at that.

However, she didn’t dare to be mean toward him like Kathleen did, as Samuel was her only hope.

Without him, she would have nothing.

No matter what, she would at least need Kathleen to donate her bone marrow first.

“Samuel, I’m not trying to blame you. It’s just that…” Nicolette sobbed and added, “Samuel, I know your family members don’t like me, and you must be under pressure. I’m sorry.”

Nicolette’s ladylike ways were different from Kathleen’s.

Although Samuel could not pinpoint the contrast, he did sense the difference.

“Samuel, I know you’re just trying to coax her to donate her bone marrow, right?” Nicolette tried to find excuses.

She could not bring herself to believe that Samuel had fallen for Kathleen.

“About the bone marrow, I’ll think of a way. You can hang up first.”

With that, Nicolette regretted, knowing that she had acted rashly.

“Samuel, can you come over to accompany me tonight?” Nicolette sobbed.

“Okay.” He nodded.

“I’ll wait for you.” With that, she hung up the phone.

Placing down his phone, Samuel remained expressionless.

Once Kathleen returned to the rest area, she noticed that the way everyone looked at her was odd.

What happened?

At that moment, a new notification popped up on her phone screen.

She whipped out her phone, only to realize that Wynnie had added her into a group chat containing her, Wynnie, and Diana.

Wynnie shared a news to the group.

Clicking the link, Kathleen read the news and was nonplussed.

Wynnie texted: I’m cool, right?

Kathleen replied: Long live my mother-in-law.

Diana then texted: Well done!

Wynnie replied: Kate, you’ve done a great job as well! That’s what you need to do. You have to let them know that Samuel belongs to you! Although my son is now a sc*mbag.

Kathleen chuckled the moment she saw that.

Why is my mother-in-law so adorable?

Diana texted: Both of you did a great job! I’ll reward you when you come home!

Wynnie texted: Thank you, Mom!

With that, Diana sent a “No worries” sticker to the group.

She was indeed a modern folk.

Wynnie replied: Mom, it’s Old Mrs. Yoeger’s birthday banquet in three days. So, I’m planning to bring Kate with us this time.

Diana texted: I agree! We can’t listen to Samuel and Katie anymore.

Kathleen replied: Grandma, Mom, I’d better not show up. After all, my identity is a little awkward.

Wynnie texted: What are you afraid of? We will introduce you to them as your grandma’s god- granddaughter. After all, everyone knows that we have a god-daughter.

Diana agreed: That’s right! You are my granddaughter. Why can’t you attend the banquet merely because of Samuel?

Wynnie texted: Okay! I’ll contact the boutique and ask them to prepare a gown for Kate.

Diana replied: Okay. Thank you.

Wynnie texted: No worries, Mom. Do remember to reward me during dinner!

Diana then sent her a cute emoji.

At that, Kathleen was dumbfounded.

“It looks like you guys are having a fun time chatting!” Calvin stood behind Kathleen.

The latte was so shocked that she immediately stood up. “Mr. Macari.”

“There is no one here. You can call me Dad. It sounds strange to hear you calling me that way,” said Calvin.

After all, Kathleen had been with the Macari family for more than ten years.

He did watch her grow up since young.

Therefore, he knew how thoughtful and obedient she was.

When Diana suggested Samuel marry Kathleen, he agreed as well.

“Don’t be nervous. Have a seat first.” Calvin spoke smilingly.

Kathleen sat down again.

“Kate, listen to me. No matter what happens to you and Samuel in the future, even if both of you have come to an end, don’t neglect your mother-in-law and grandmother. Both of them like you very much.”

“Dad, I won’t. I like Grandma and Mom a lot too. I respect you as well. I know all of you are different from Samuel. I won’t treat you like how I treat him,” replied Kathleen.

“I know you are a thoughtful girl. I have never worried about this. However, I would like to ask you a question. Have you really stopped loving Samuel?” Calvin asked.

Chapter 34

Kathleen was slightly startled by the question and started to grip her fair hand tightly.

Meanwhile, Calvin scrutinized her.

In fact, she did not need to answer anymore since her action had already betrayed her.

“Kate, you are ultimately bound to get hurt if you fall in love with someone like Samuel,” Calvin said solemnly. “I’m not just his father; I know him inside out. My son isn’t that honest, and his words sometimes contradict his action. You might have to comply with his requests, which could be unfair to you because love is supposed to be reciprocal. However, Samuel is extremely stubborn. Therefore, the woman who loves him must sacrifice a little more.”

Kathleen nodded. “I understand.”

“My son is born with a silver spoon. Hence, he naturally thinks that if a certain thing belongs to him, he does not need to fight for it or bother with it. Nonetheless, he will only realize how much he cares for it once it slips out of his hands,” Calvin uttered gently. “Perhaps, you should give him some time.”

Kathleen pursed her lips. “How much time should I give him? A day? A week? Or a lifetime?”

“This is for you to speculate.” Calvin’s voice fell to a hush. “I believe you will make your judgment at that time.”

Kathleen lowered her gaze and kept quiet.

She knew Calvin was persuading her to give Samuel another chance.

Why should I give him a chance, though? He and Nicolette had already done that unspeakable act.

Later that evening, Kathleen had changed into an indigo one-shoulder evening gown, making her look elegant.

The indigo gown only made her skin appear fairer than it already was.

Her long supple hair was pulled into a loose bun and was pinned up with a dark blue gemstone hairpin, giving her a beautiful and sophisticated image.

Kathleen had never dressed like that in front of anyone before.

It was her first time.

Calvin was very pleased. “Your mother-in-law instructed someone to deliver this gown to you.”

“No wonder it fits me like a glove.” Kathleen felt a surge of warmth in her heart.

“She wore this gown when we met each other for the first time.” Calvin ruminated over the past.

Kathleen was stunned by the story behind this particular gown.

“Let’s get in the car,” Calvin said.

“Dad.” Samuel stepped out of the company.

“You’ve knocked off from work,” Calvin responded coolly. “I’ll bring Kate to the banquet.”

Samuel’s darkened gaze fell on Kathleen, the look in his eyes unfathomable. “Dad, what would outsiders say if you brought her with you?”

“It’s easy. I could say Kate is the one your grandmother adopted as her granddaughter. Otherwise, I’ll tell everyone that her parents were your grandmother’s saviors. Everybody knows that.” Calvin had long thought of a good explanation.

“How do you plan to explain to people in the future if you assert that your daughter-in-law is Grandma’s adopted granddaughter now?” Samuel spoke in a chilly tone. “I’ll bring her there instead.”

“Isn’t this all your fault? Besides our family, no one else knows Kate is your wife,” Calvin taunted. “That’s fine too. After the divorce gets finalized, Kate will become the legitimate daughter of my family. You better not cause trouble at that time.”

Samuel was rendered speechless.

Why would I cause any trouble?

“If not, why don’t you let Kate decide?” After that, Calvin asked the young lady, “Whose car do you want to get in?”

“Mine.” Samuel grasped Kathleen’s hand.

Nonetheless, Kathleen retracted her hand and muttered, “Mr. Macari, it’s best if we avoid arousing suspicion.”

With that, she got into Calvin’s car.

Gloominess shrouded Samuel’s face.

Calvin shot his son a dubious look. “She said to avoid arousing suspicion, heard that?”

Samuel’s expression turned grim.

Once Calvin boarded the car, he ordered the driver to start driving.

As Calvin glanced at Samuel from the rearview mirror, his lips quirked into a small smile.

During the banquet, people began asking Calvin about Kathleen’s identity when they saw that he had brought her with him.

Calvin let out a chuckle. “Did you guys forget that my mother adopted a granddaughter ten years ago?”

“Oh, I see. So this is the girl.”

“Does that also means she’s a daughter of the Macari family?”

“That’s right.” Calvin grinned. “She’s Kathleen Johnson, my daughter.”

Kathleen was very well-behaved. “Hello, everyone,” she greeted politely.

The crowd nodded in response.

For Calvin to bring this lady here for an eye-opening experience, I highly suspect he wants to find a suitable husband for her.

Although Kathleen was not related to the Macari family by blood, her parents were Diana’s saviors. The latter even adopted her to be her god-grandchild. That would mean she still had a decent status in the family.

Some elders dragged their sons before Kathleen and introduced them to her.

It was undeniable that those elders and their sons seemed pretty reliable.

Although their family backgrounds were not as prominent as the Macari family, they weren’t too shabby either.

Samuel, who stood nearby, was staring at the scene with a chilly gaze.

He could not help but feel uneasy when he noticed Kathleen chatting merrily with other men.

This eye-catching young lady is going to attract people’s attention!

Samuel strode over gracefully. His tone was cold. “I got a few words to say to her.” After that, he grabbed Kathleen’s wrist and left.

They went to a place with no one around.

Kathleen could no longer hold back her anger. “What are you doing, Samuel? You were so rude just now!”

“Do you think those men were being courteous?” Samuel’s face darkened. “Dad too; he clearly knows you’re my wife, but he still introduced those people to you! What’s so good about those men?”

“Are you crazy?” Kathleen fumed. “They don’t know the relationship between us. Right now, we are siblings, get it?”

Siblings?

“Samuel, you reap what you sow. All these are the results of your actions.” Kathleen let out a snort. “No one will ever know we’re husband and wife. For us to carry on as siblings will do.”

Upon saying that, Kathleen was about to leave.

However, Samuel pulled her back and pressed her against the wall. He snarled, “Kathleen, how bold of you to insist we’re siblings instead of a married couple!”

Kathleen bit her lip in frustration. “Samuel, if you dare kiss me again, don’t blame me for betraying you! I’ll let everyone here know about our relationship! Kiss me if you dare!”

Samuel grabbed her chin and kissed her passionately.

He had long wanted to do that to her ever since he saw how beautifully dressed up she was.

How could someone like her be so gentle, cute, alluring, and exquisite all at once? Not only that, she isn’t pretentious, and none of the expressions she portrays is fake.

That was why he did not want anyone to lay their eyes on her all the more.

He also had no clue when he had become obsessed with the woman and could not get enough of her.

Kathleen pounded on the man’s chest with her fists with all her might. “Let go of me! Samuel, you shameless man! Why did you kiss me when you obviously have no feelings toward me? We’re about to get a divorce, but why are you still bullying me? Haven’t I always obeyed your words and acted as Nicolette’s substitute and your anonymous wife for the past three years? I have nothing left, so what else do you want from me?”

Loving this man had caused her to lose too many things.

She wanted to recover them bit by bit, but Samuel had become her hindrance.

“You still have me.” Samuel drew her into his embrace. “No matter what happens, you still have me.”

Chapter 35

“I just want to have a proper husband, Samuel. If you can’t give me that, then stop trying to get yourself involved with me,” Kathleen pleaded in great distress. “Every time you kiss me, it makes me hesitate. I begin to wonder if you might like me just a little bit, but the things you do afterward shatter me completely. Please stop torturing me. I’m begging you.”

Tears were streaming down her cheeks uncontrollably.

The sorrow and pain she was experiencing were unbearable.

Kathleen was well aware of how much she loved Samuel.

It wasn’t just a matter of time. Rather, he had become a permanent part of her life.

Only she knew how agonizing it was to have to rip him out of her life just like that.

Despite the fresh wound that he had left behind, she still loved him.

It took time for wounds to heal, after all.

What she needed was time.

What she didn’t need was Samuel coming back to reopen that wound of hers right as she was trying to close it slowly. He was making her experience heart-wrenching torment once again.

At that point, she was bawling her eyes out in Samuel’s arms.

There was no way she would be able to head back in that state.

Samuel took off his suit and covered her with it before pulling her into his embrace. “Come on. Don’t cry.”

“Stop being so nice to me. Just stay indifferent. Quit trying to manipulate me,” Kathleen sobbed.

“Who else am I nice to other than you?” He felt like he was at his wit’s end.

“Nicolette,” she mumbled. Her eyes were red-rimmed. “I told you I wanted a proper husband, Samuel. If you’re willing to be one, we can live happily from now on. If not, we should make things clear right now. Then, we can go our separate ways in the future.”

He stared at how pitiful she looked. There was slight hoarseness to his voice as he asked, “Can you give me a bit of time?”

That left Kathleen startled.

“Just give me some time to straighten everything out,” he said while caressing her face.

Truthfully speaking, he was quite reluctant to let her go.

“How long?” Her lips were pursed together. “I can’t keep dragging things out with you, Samuel. There’s no way I can wait as long as a year, either.”

“One month,” Samuel proposed in a deep voice.

After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “I can give you that much, but I have my own demands.”

“What are they?” he questioned. There was a smile on his face.

“Give me a copy of the divorce agreement with your signature on it. If you and Nicolette are still hung up on each other after a month, I’ll sign the papers and leave,” insisted Kathleen. She wanted to have a backup plan for herself instead of waiting around like an idiot.

He chuckled in response. “Sometimes, I feel like you’re as innocent as a baby. Other times, I find you rather cunning.”

“Are you going to give it to me or not?” she complained.

Samuel slapped his hand against her outstretched one. “I will.”

“Good. I want it by tomorrow,” she ordered, then bit her lip.

“Sure.” He nodded his head.

Kathleen hesitated for a while, then stated, “This is really going to be the last chance I give you, Samuel. I hope you’re not doing this to lead me on or trick me. I know I’m soft-hearted, but I would never let anyone take advantage of me.”

“I won’t trick you,” he promised while staring at her.

“Also…” Her gaze turned cold as she trailed off. “You’re not allowed to get intimate with Nicolette ever again.”

Upon hearing that, Samuel frowned.

Get intimate with her? I’ve never even done that before. Is she talking about physical contact?

“Got it,” he agreed.

Only then did she feel better.

Nonetheless, she was still incredibly on edge because she couldn’t tell what Samuel’s true intentions were.

What am I going to do if he really is just trying to trick me?

“Let’s go back,” Samuel suggested. He grabbed her hand before heading outside.

“Shouldn’t we tell Dad?” Kathleen protested softly.

Even though she had just cried herself silly, she still hadn’t completely regained her composure.

On top of that, she hadn’t forgotten her manners either.

“Don’t worry about it.” He simply brushed the matter off.

“Where are we going, then?” she inquired.

“Well, where do you want to go?” asked Samuel in response.

“Let’s go back to the condominium,” said Kathleen after a pause.

“Okay. Come on.” He proceeded to walk out of the hotel with her hand in hand.

Once they returned to the condominium, Kathleen put on a pair of indoor slippers with bunny ears.

On the other hand, Samuel had used the same pair of simple black slippers since the start.

In the past, Kathleen had gotten them matching ones, but he had only complained about it with disdain.

In fact, Samuel viewed most couple-themed products with contempt.

The way he saw it, they were nothing but childish things that only young girls would be into.

What he had forgotten, however, was the fact that Kathleen was a young girl herself, not to mention a soft and gentle one.

After changing into their slippers, Samuel pressed her against the wall and kissed her.

It was even more intense than the kiss they had shared back in the hotel.

Kathleen was overcome with terror. Her dainty fist pounded on his chest as she fiercely uttered, “You’re not allowed to get intimate with me until the month is over.”

“Why?” He grimaced.

“It’s… It’s a test,” she muttered. “If you manage to pass the test after the month is up, I’ll give you a surprise.”

In the event that he actually chose to be with her from then on, she would come clean about the baby.

She would simply look forward to how exactly he was going to deal with Nicolette.

“So, after one month, you’ll give in to me?” he questioned while scrutinizing her.

“That’s right,” she affirmed with a nod.

“You should know what the consequences of making me hold back for a whole month are,” warned Samuel. His calloused fingers tenderly brushed against her delicate chin, and he stared into her eyes with a devilish gaze.

“I know.” Kathleen was being perfectly obedient.

Either way, she figured that once she told him that she was pregnant and couldn’t share a room with him, he wouldn’t be able to do anything, either.

Hehe!

“I’m going to take a shower,” he told her.

Kathleen nodded. “Okay.”

Samuel proceeded to turn around and go into the house while she let out a sigh of relief and clenched her fists.

If Samuel truly intended to stay with her, then she could just act like she knew nothing about him and Nicolette.

Kathleen decided to give Wynnie a call. “Samuel and I won’t be going back tonight, Mom.”

Wynnie arched a brow. “Has he gone to see Nicolette again? He’s using you as his cover, isn’t he?”

“No, that’s not it,” Kathleen immediately denied.

“Could you get me a towel, Kathleen?” Samuel piped up with his deep voice.

“Coming,” she answered.

The moment Wynnie heard that exchange, she could tell that it was Samuel’s voice.

“Okay. Got it,” she said with a grin. “You both should rest early.”

After that, she hung up.

Kathleen placed her phone down and went to pass Samuel a towel.

When he opened the door to take it from her, he was completely naked.

The man’s figure was unbelievably well-built, and he could even beat that of the models in fashion magazines. No matter what he wore, he still looked slender; when undressed, though, his muscles were perfectly defined.

He had something unique about him that most people didn’t.

As a rather conservative woman, Kathleen wasn’t really the type to open up to others.

The only experience that she had was with Samuel himself.

Because of that, seeing him so exposed made her cheeks flush in embarrassment. Her face was so red that she looked like a tomato. She was so naive that it was out of this world.

That purity and innocence of hers were exactly what he liked about her.

She had yet to be tainted by the world.

Kathleen instantly turned around. Even the tips of her ears felt hot.

Samuel wrapped the towel around himself and approached her from behind. He lowered his head and nibbled on her ear with his icy, thin lips. “It’s been three years. Why are you still so shy?”

A shiver ran through her body. “You promised me, Samuel.”