Ch. 1781..1790

Chapter 1781

Chapter 1781

Maisie's hand trembled slightly, but she didn't pull away. She allowed him to hold her hand, letting the warmth of his palm seep gently into her heart, much like the morning sun illuminating her world. After breakfast, the two of them reached the villa on the outskirts. They wiped the small tombstone clean and placed a beautiful bouquet of daisies in front of it.

Maisie looked up, and the sky seemed bluer than ever. She smiled gently and took a deep breath, realizing that life should involve subtraction. Letting go didn't mean forgetting, but traveling light to keep moving forward.

"You know, I still have the prenatal examination report." Maisie spoke softly. "Because there's a photo on it... Even though it's not clear, you can see the eyes and nose."

Daniel's heart skipped a beat. He quietly moved closer to her, his broad shoulders enveloping her petite frame like a tender haven.

"What did she look like?"

"That's hard to describe." Maisie chuckled softly. "Fetal babies probably look similar, but I think daughters resemble their fathers. She might have looked a lot like you if she had been born."

Daniel felt a pang of sadness. "Maisie, back then... how did you manage the prenatal checks?"

"I went to a small clinic," she answered calmly. "I was afraid you'd insist on me terminating the pregnancy, so I hid and didn't dare to go to big hospitals. They require records and IDs, and with your capabilities, it'd be easy to find me..."

"Can those small clinics be trusted?"

"The equipment wasn't great." Maisie smiled. "Conditions were quite basic, but it was enough to check if the baby was healthy."

How had she survived during that time?

Daniel wanted to ask more but hesitated. Actually, he knew the answer-when Owen confessed everything, he had told him.

During that time.

Maisie lived in the cheapest rented house and had no decent bed. She was short on money and even had to buy eggs one by one. She worked in the kitchen of a small restaurant, as the pay for dishwashing was daily and the boss didn't check IDs, ensuring her whereabouts remained hidden.

That period was the darkest time in her life. Only the child in her womb was the sunshine that seeped through the walls, showing her hope.

Daniel hated himself for not finding her sooner, and he despised the one moment of hesitation that caused her so much suffering.

"It's all in the past." Those words were for him but sounded more like encouragement for herself. "I didn't have that strange dream last night. I believe I won't have it again in the future either." Daniel nodded.

They tidied around the tombstone, paid their respects, and slowly returned along the path.

He asked Maisie softly, "What are your plans for the future?"

Maisie thought and said, "This book is still in its promotion period, so I need to work with the company for publicity. In my spare time, I'll probably prepare for a new book."

"You plan to keep writing like this?"

"Not necessarily. I know my talent is limited, so I need to work harder. But I also want to be an author's agent like Lily."

"That's not a bad idea." Daniel looked at her. "But being an agent requires excellent communication skills and a good network. If you're really interested, I can="

"No need," Maisie gently interrupted him. "Lily has introduced me to some authors. I learn writing from them and occasionally discuss literary works. As for the direction of my future development, it depends on what I'm better at."

Daniel narrowed his eyes. He only heard the part about Lily introducing a few authors to Maisie and wondered what Lily could be up to!

Chapter 1782

Chapter 1782

Daniel was worried but didn't want to show it too clearly, so he pretended to ask calmly, "What authors did she introduce to you?"

Maisie smiled but didn't answer. She made an excuse about having to visit the publishing company and left ahead of time.

Daniel followed closely behind, not letting her go alone. He claimed that the area they were currently in was remote, not good for hailing cabs, and there wasn't much public transport, so he insisted on driving her.

After a tug-of-war, Maisie couldn't resist anymore and finally got into his car.

SL Publishing was hosting a small afternoon tea party.

The tea party wasn't grand, but it had high value, mostly filled with top-notch professionals in the field.

Lily used her connections to pave the way for her authors. As a promising new writer with impressive achievements, Maisie was naturally among those Lily paid attention to.

Throughout the event, Lily weaved through the crowd with Maisie, introducing her enthusiastically to literary giants or well-known booksellers.

"This is my newly signed author. She has great potential!... Oh yes, that's the book. It's quite popular now, isn't it? Hahaha..."

"Hey there, Mr. West! Long time no see!... She's like my little sister. Her writing skills are impeccable, and her storytelling is especially clever. She's gained some popularity on many online platforms, with quite a following!"

"Have you seen the bestseller list? She's on the latest issue!"

"What? Really?" Lily laughed heartily. "Yes! My little sister! So, please take care of her and offer your guidance!"

While Lily was in high spirits, Daniel stood not far away, watching with a gradually deepening gaze.

Not too long after, Lily finally had an ominous feeling and sneezed several times in a row. She asked Rachael to check the air conditioning, and the latter reported back, "Ms. Reyes, it's working fine. It's exactly set at 25°C, the most comfortable temperature for the human body!"

"Weird..." Lily muttered. She then turned around abruptly and saw Daniel with a glower!

She finally understood what was going on. It turned out that a killing look wasn't just a literary expression...

Lily composed herself and approached Daniel with a smile and a cup of Earl Grey tea. She politely greeted him, inviting him to have some snacks.

Daniel gave her an annoyed side-eye.

"So, um... How's this tea party going?" Lily tried to strike up a conversation, sounding cheerful.

Daniel asked in a serious tone, "Isn't Maisie a writer? Does she need to attend these gatherings? Does she need to be your PR girl?"

"Oh, please, don't be so harsh with your words! This is a proper afternoon tea party attended by literary figures!"

"Heh, literary figures?" Daniel scoffed. "So-called sophisticated misfits, right?"

"You..." Lily could smell the jealousy on him. She was not oblivious to his sour attitude, but being a woman herself, she empathized more with Maisie's experiences.

Hence, she chose to ignore Daniel's glower and teased him, "Old man, you wouldn't understand. Sophisticated misfits are the kind of guys girls love these days! Just so happens that a few authors who just joined my company fit that type. I'll introduce them to Maisie later!"

Chapter 1783

Chapter 1783

Daniel narrowed his eyes, exuding an unusual calmness reminiscent of the tranquility before a storm.

"To be honest, I'm not a big fan of this circle," he said in a low, measured tone, each word crystal clear. "Not all these authors are pure. Seeking wealth is one thing. But if some harbor ulterior motives, using the guise of artistry for unsavory purposes, Maisie will surely be taken advantage of!"

"Are you paranoid?" Lily looked exasperated. "Quimby, if you're so easily jealous, are you going to start controlling Maisie's freedom next? That's just terrifying!

"Furthermore, why can't women be in the forefront? When we engage in work commitments, it's based on real abilities! Why should you men scrutinize attractive women? Is it a woman's fault for being pretty, o do you men just have filthy minds?"

Daniel's eyes suddenly widened.

Lily had that knack, using her twisted logic and arguments to render him speechless!

Although Daniel appeared calm as a placid lake on the surface, storms had already begun inside him. Yet, years of experience in the business world had honed his skill of keeping his emotions hidden. Daniel chuckled lightly, giving a thumbs-up. "You have quite a unique perspective. Very outstanding, Reyes!"

"You're too kind!"

"Will this theory of yours be brought into your management approach as well?"

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing much." Daniel smirked. "As the major shareholder of SL Publishing, I think I must reconsider my upcoming investment plans."

Lily was taken aback. She had been so focused on teasing him earlier that she had completely forgotten he was a shareholder.

"Well, Daniel, I actually—"

"When will it be convenient for you to schedule the investment meeting for the next quarter? I'll have my assistant handle it!"

Lily took a deep breath.

Those familiar with Daniel knew that he wouldn't attend personally if he didn't approve of a project. He would merely send his lowest-ranking assistant to notify.

Lily rolled her eyes internally but ultimately gave in. She had Rachael summon Maisie, cheerfully pushing her toward Daniel.

Maisie looked bewildered. "Uh..."

"Maisie!" Lily held her hand, beaming. "This gentleman, Mr. Quimby, is an investor in our company. Why don't you have a good chat with him? Oh, I won't introduce those handsome guys to you, hehe..." Maisie appeared surprised, while Daniel couldn't hide his smug smile.

Once Lily walked away, Maisie connected the dots and understood what had happened.

She found it slightly amusing and looked at Daniel. "You're not really that petty, are you?"

Unexpectedly, he replied, "I am. When it comes to you, I am."

"Daniel, we..."

"I understand." Daniel looked into her eyes. "I know you might not be able to forgive me completely right now, and I don't expect that, considering my past mistakes. But, Maisie, I'm willing to wait. "When I saw you socializing over there, chatting and laughing with others, I admit, I felt a bit jealous... But I support you having your own career, flying in your own world.

"If you ever get tired of flying, remember to look back. I'll always be behind you."

Maisie was caught off guard by this sudden confession. Her heart pounded as if transported back to those naive and innocent years when she got to know him.

Chapter 1784

Chapter 1784

Daniel inched closer, his chest nearly touching her flushed face. He murmured in her ear in a low, charming voice, "I'll keep waiting until you nod." Maisie stood there, unmoving. She glanced at him, then chuckled shyly.

Just then, Daniel's phone rang-his assistant urgently needed his attention for some company matters.

Forcing a smile, he said, "I need to head back."

"Alright." Maisie nodded gently.

"Take care of yourself. Call me after the tea party ends, and I'll come pick you up."

"You focus on your work," she said. "My home isn't far. I'll manage."

"Fair enough." He didn't push. "If you need anything, don't hesitate to contact me."

As Maisie watched him walk away, a whirlwind of emotions overcame her. He was the first person she ever loved, perhaps the only one in her life.

However, the more the love, the harder it was to forget the hurt.

She sighed softly.

Suddenly, a clear voice sounded beside her, "Can you still see anything when he's gone that far?"

Startled, Maisie turned to see a handsome face.

He exuded a classic bookish aura, dressed in a white shirt, with features chiseled like a leading man in a campus novel. His smile seemed to embody the world's sunshine. Maisie was momentarily stunned, but the man's expression changed instantly.

"Hey, watch out!"

He reached out, pulling her over abruptly.

Maisie stumbled, almost colliding with him, but he caught her, revealing a muscular forearm beneath his rolled-up white shirt.

His other hand grabbed the clumsy waiter, preventing a cacophony of crashing dishes and chaos.

Maisie composed herself, noticing the waiter's panicked expression. If this man hadn't pulled her away, the cakes and tea in the waiter's hands would have spilled all over her. She hurriedly thanked him, "Thank you so much."

"No problem." The man smiled. "You're... Maisie Squire, right?"

"You know me?"

"I am-"

Before he could finish his sentence, Maisie's phone suddenly rang. She stepped aside to answer, hearing Nicole speaking frantically.

"Maisie, can you come to the hospital? It's mom... She's feeling really unwell and keeps complaining about chest pain. I brought her here, but it's overcrowded. The doctors can only provide basic treatment for now, and we're waiting for a hospital bed..."

"What?" Maisie froze. "Mom's having heart trouble, and they can't admit her?"

"They can admit her, but there's a queue. There are no available beds now!" Nicole sounded distressed. "There are many others like us waiting... Maisie, I can't bear to see her like this. Although the doctors gave her a drip to stabilize her condition temporarily, I'm really worried something..."

Maisie felt heavy-hearted. She knew her mother's condition was due to Owen.

Owen and Camila had been imprisoned, facing legal repercussions. Camila had been sentenced, and Owen had to go to rehab before he went to prison. Their days weren't easy.

However, Cindy blamed Maisie for everything, thinking Daniel was conspiring with her. She believed Daniel manipulated things against Owen, with Maisie's involvement behind the scenes.

Chapter 1785

Chapter 1785

"Nicole, don't worry too much," Maisie comforted softly. "I'll figure something out."

"Alright!" Nicole flattered timidly. "Maisie, it's always you who has all the solutions. Whenever something happens at home, we can only rely on you."

Maisie forced a smile. After hanging up, she instinctively dialed Daniel's number. Those digits felt etched into her muscles.

Yet, she hesitated at the moment of pressing the call button.

For years, seeking his help had become second nature to her. From treating Owen's illness to every major and minor family issue, it all depended on Daniel.

Not having enough money at home, having to move houses, Nicole seeking to divorce Wesley, Wesley gambling... These issues were a heavy burden to a regular household, but it was only a matter of words to Daniel.

Maisie let out a long sigh and smirked self-deprecatingly. Apparently, she would always be dependent on him.

She didn't want to continue like this. Since she had chosen to be independent, she needed to rely on herself for everything.

After some thought, she found a few doctors' numbers from her contacts and called them one by one. The responses were all the same overcrowded hospitals and adherence to protocols. They promised to prioritize her mother once a bed became available.

"But..." Maisie remembered this person was a hospital director.

"Mr. Lawrence," she attempted again. "Is there no way to accommodate? It's fine even if we pay more..."

"Do you wish for her to stay in a VIP ward?"

"Yes."

There was a pause on the other end. "Does Mr. Quimby know about this?"

Maisie's gaze dimmed, and she silently ended the call.

"Um, excuse me." Suddenly, a voice came from beside her.

Maisie was taken aback and looked up to see the same man from before.

He offered a gentle smile. "I didn't mean to eavesdrop on your call. I was about to leave but overheard about hospitals and beds... Do you need any help?"

"Thank you, but I'm fine," Maisie replied calmly. "I can handle it myself."

The man nodded but didn't leave immediately. Instead, he turned and wrote a phone number on a piece of paper.

"This is the director of a private hospital." He handed her the note. "Private hospitals have fewer patients and more beds, but the charges are relatively higher. If you need it, contact him. If not, pretend I didn't say anything and toss the paper away. Is that okay?"

Maisie was stunned but hesitantly accepted the note, thanking him softly.

The man beamed.

Maisie found him innocent.

"If you do contact the director, mention my referral. I'm Harvey Newhouse!"

The private hospital had fewer patients and more beds. Coupled with Maisie's growing royalties and manuscript fees, paying for her mother's hospitalization and treatment was no longer a problem. Soon, Maisie settled Cindy but didn't receive a word of thanks in return-though she hadn't expected gratitude from her.

After all, the daughter should do everything possible when a mother fell ill.

It was just that Cindy's lack of expression left Maisie feeling somewhat disappointed.

Chapter 1786

Chapter 1786

In the evening, Maisie found herself at the hospital with Cindy. She prepared a plate of sliced apples for Cindy, but the latter didn't even glance at it.

"Mom." Maisie spoke, the atmosphere tense. Summoning courage, she continued. "You haven't had dinner. Have some fruit first. If you want anything else, I can get it for you..." Cindy glanced at her and turned her head away.

"The doctor emphasized the need for proper nutrition during treatment. If you don't eat or drink, no one can help you. Mom-"

"I'd rather die than live like this!" Cindy exclaimed.

After a moment of silence, Maisie lowered her gaze and said, "What do you want from me? I've tried my best for you!"

"Make Daniel get your brother out, and I'll forgive you!"

"Mom!"

"Are you going or not?" Cindy suddenly sat up, glaring at her. "If you don't go, I won't seek treatment! If I die, it's because of you!"

Maisie looked at her, fighting back tears.

"You're a famous writer now!" Cindy sneered. "If news spreads about a shameful incident where your mother dies because of you, let's see who will buy your books!" Maisie trembled, feeling a chill creeping up inside her.

In her memory, she seemed to have never experienced any familial love or warmth. Her mother had given most of her maternal affection to Owen, a little to Nicole, and nothing else left for Maisie.

As a child, Maisie always thought her mother disliked her, believing it was her fault. She would try her best to be obedient, suppressing her true self and fulfilling her mother's request.

She desperately tried to earn her mother's approval.

Even when her mother had sent her to Daniel as company for the sake of her brother's treatment, she hadn't uttered a word of dissent.

Looking back, it all seemed absurd.

There truly were mothers in this world who didn't love their own children...

Maisie steadied herself. "Mom, you can't be unreasonable. Owen got involved in something he shouldn't have and needs to go to rehab! He needs to face the consequences! I can't change that! "Besides, he was the one who disclosed my whereabouts to Camila back then. He caused me—"

"It's about that child, isn't it?" Cindy yelled like she was losing her mind. "Is an unborn brat more important than your brother?"

Maisie was hysterical. "How could you say that? That's my child! I not only miscarried but also risked my life! Mom, can't you be fair?!"

Her reaction frightened Cindy. She stared at her daughter for a while, then softened her tone. "Well... it was Owen's fault, and I scolded him! Do you have to keep harping on it?"

Cindy pursed her lips. "If you think about it, I think Owen helped you! You had no status with Daniel. For lack of better words, you were his plaything... How were you going to take care of his child? You'd be criticized! If you ask me. It's good that the child's gone—"

"Shut up!" Maisie couldn't take it anymore. She lost control and slammed the glass in her hand on the floor, shattering it into pieces.

Cindy looked at her in shock. The daughter in front of her was no longer the submissive little bunny. Her bloodshot eyes looked like they wanted to kill her.

"You... You're inhuman!" Maisie's voice trembled, tears streaming down her face. "You don't deserve to be a mother!"

Chapter 1787

Chapter 1787

Maisie's unexpected words took aback Cindy.

In reality, everyone had their boundaries, and Cindy's biggest mistake was disregarding Maisie's emotions and being careless about her sensitive wounds. She forgot that even a rabbit could bite when pushed too far.

Unable to swallow this insult, Cindy was only stunned for a few seconds. When she finally reacted, her anger surpassed her shock by far.

"You wretched girl!" she screamed. "You dare to throw a tantrum and smash things at me now? I..."

She looked around, picked up a cup from the table, and aggressively threw it on the floor. Unsatisfied, she then grabbed a vase and hurled it toward Maisie.

Maisie stood motionless as if plummeting into the depths of despair, feeling cold all over.

Right when Cindy hurled the vase, the door to the room swung open, and someone dashed in to shield Maisie. "Watch out!"

Maisie blinked in confusion. There was a sunny scent about this person's white shirt.

The vase crashed to the floor and shattered.

"Are you okay?" Harvey protected Maisie from the debris, looking incredulously at Cindy. "Ma'am, what are you..."

Cindy stared blankly at him.

Coincidentally, Daniel arrived and witnessed the scene. Standing at the door, he noticed Maisie's distressed expression and saw the young man protectively shielding her.

He felt a pang of discomfort, and then he walked over, placing himself in front of Maisie. His gaze was icy as he looked at Cindy.

"Where do you feel unwell that you're seeking treatment in this private hospital, Mrs. Squire?"

Daniel's entry instantly silenced the room. His dominating presence made the previously arrogant Cindy cower. She could only put on a careful smile. "M-My heart doesn't feel so well."

Daniel furrowed his brows. He glanced at Maisie and subtly embraced her shoulder, pulling her away from Harvey. He then gently caressed her back.

Trembling, Maisie instinctively grabbed Daniel's sleeve and curled up in his embrace. He always appeared gentle in front of her. The instant his eyes scanned others, however, he transformed into an intimidating figure.

"You don't seem physically unwell." He sneered. "If it's really a heart issue, I'll personally arrange for an expert to treat you!"

Cindy lowered her head, too scared to speak.

Daniel escorted Maisie out, passing by Harvey. He glanced at the guy, noted his innocent and curious face, and suddenly remembered what Lily had said-literary misfits were the type of guys girls liked these days.

Daniel felt uneasy instantly. Placing Maisie on his right side, his broad shoulders acted as a barrier that blocked Harvey's view.

"Mr. Quimby," Harvey politely greeted him.

Daniel smiled. "Mr. Newhouse, how has your father been lately?"

Harvey just smiled without replying.

Chapter 1788

Chapter 1788

"I appreciate your good intentions." Daniel spoke in a hushed tone. "But it appears this hospital specializes more in orthopedics than cardiovascular treatment, doesn't it? I'll take charge of finding the right doctor for Mrs. Squire's illness."

"Mr. Quimby-"

"Moreover, this is a family matter," Daniel enunciated each word, emphasizing "family matter". "Your concern is unnecessary. I'll arrange for Mrs. Squire to be transferred to another hospital this afternoon!" Harvey was taken aback. He watched the two figures leave with a faint smile.

Exiting the room, he received a call from his butler as he walked to the corridor. "Mr. Harvey, someone has coordinated with me about transferring Mrs. Squire..." "Yes, it's Daniel Quimby." Harvey spoke softly. "Just follow his instructions."

"Understood." The butler paused. "And Ms. Squire..."

"Keep it under the radar for now. The situation isn't entirely clear. Everything is speculation on my part. But..." Harvey smirked. "I'm good at giving Mr. Quimby a bit of trouble on time! Let me figure out the next step!"

Daniel left the hospital room with Maisie. Even after getting into the car, he remained silent, his expression grim.

Maisie glanced at him, wanting to say something but refrained.

Daniel took several calls, swiftly arranging Cindy's transfer. The people contacting him included Frank Lawrence, whom Maisie had previously called.

The car remained quiet. Maisie could distinctly hear Frank's fawning words.

"Mr. Quimby, if your family needs anything, just let me know. There's no need for you to come in person... Rest assured. I'll take good care of Mrs. Squire..." Maisie smiled in self-mockery.

The same person showed two different faces in front of her and Daniel.

Daniel seemed capable of handling anything in the world. His name itself seemed all-powerful.

"The specialist has been arranged. Your mother can go for an examination anytime."

Maisie was slightly taken aback when she heard his deep voice. Then, she nodded. It felt like something was choking her, though, and she couldn't utter a word. After a long silence, Daniel finally asked, "Why didn't you contact me first?"

Maisie looked up at him, and he seemed angry. Yet, behind that anger, there was more of a sense of disappointment.

"If Dr. Lawrence hadn't told me that you called him, I wouldn't have known your mother was in this private hospital."

When he hurried here today to resolve the issue for her, he saw her being so close to Harvey in the hospital room... It made him feel somewhat vexed.

"I won't stand by if your family has issues. But why didn't you reach out to me? Instead, you sought help from Newhouse? Am I not worth your trust?"

"It's not..." Maisie's throat tightened. She wanted to reach for his hand but stopped halfway, retracting it in silence.

"I just... I don't want to rely too much on you." She lowered her head, speaking softly. "I don't want to go back to being the old me, relying solely on you. I want to prove to myself that with my abilities now, I can arrange the best hospital room for my mother when she needs it and provide her with professional medical treatment..."

"That's a different matter!" Daniel's voice was angry. "Do you know that guy? Do you know his background? You don't know anything, and you dare accept his help? Don't you think you're too naïve?!"

Maisie froze. Daniel rarely used this tone with her. Even in the beginning, when she relied on him, he gave her enough respect and pampering, always speaking to her gently, like an indulgent elder to a child. Now... he felt more like a stern elder scolding a child.

Chapter 1789

Chapter 1789

Maisie kept her eyes lowered in silence.

Daniel glanced at her. Her demeanor reminded him of when she used to be gentle and obedient, staying quietly by his side during work-related stress and enduring late nights just to accompany him. A pang struck his heart, and he gently held her hand.

"I understand," Maisie murmured softly. "I'll be more careful from now on. I won't associate with strangers..."

Daniel sighed. "Maisie, I'm sorry. I was a little anxious earlier and lashed out in temper."

Maisie remained silent, shaking her head.

"I don't mean to stop you from making friends..." Daniel paused, feeling a bit guilty for expressing that. The jealousy he felt when he saw her with Harvey lingered in his mind.

Nevertheless, he forced himself to appear considerate, speaking softly. "I'm worried about you. You're too naive, unaware of the dangers people might pose..."

As he finished speaking, the atmosphere seemed to turn sour again.

She had wholeheartedly devoted herself to him because she was too naive when they first met. In his past ignorance, he hadn't cherished her properly, making her tread so many wrong paths. Daniel licked his lips, deciding to end this topic.

"Maisie, I..."

"No need to say more, I understand." Maisie looked up at him. Despite the weariness in her expression, there was still a glint in her eyes when she looked at him.

"I know you mean well. It was my fault. I was too eager to prove myself. I'll be more cautious in the future. Actually, thinking about it... there's nothing wrong with relying on you."

"What?" Daniel was taken aback, almost letting his smile peek through, but he managed to control it.

Maisie leaned her head on his shoulder, gently closing her eyes.

"Give me a little more time, okay?" she said softly. "I really... don't want to become a parasite by your side. I want to be someone capable and courageous. I want to work for it. So, can you give me a bit more time?"

What more could Daniel say? It was a certain yes-he could give her all the time she needed.

He affectionately ruffled her hair, his voice gentle. "It's still early. Is there somewhere you'd like to go?"

"Don't you need to go to the office?"

"I won't go today." He chuckled. "The whole day is yours."

Maisie smiled, continuing to lean on his shoulder, but her voice sounded somewhat lackluster. "There's nowhere I particularly want to go... but there's something I really want to know."

"What is it?"

"Why is my mother treating me that way?"

Daniel froze, then embraced her shoulders sympathetically.

That was a question he couldn't answer. Like Maisie, he hadn't received much maternal love either. His mother's family was influential, and his father was no different from a social climber. He had abandoned Linda and her mother back then, then married his mother.

His father had always felt guilty toward Linda, so he would occasionally meet with her and his ex-wife.

Daniel's mother was proud and couldn't tolerate such a wavering husband, leading to constant conflicts at home. Disillusioned with the marriage, she had pinned all her hopes on Daniel.

He had grown up under immense pressure. While other kids had toy cars and action figures, his childhood consisted of endless classes.

Chapter 1790

Chapter 1790

Under his mother's careful upbringing, Daniel excelled, but it also molded his cold temperament. Meeting Maisie made him realize there was an extremely soft spot deep within his heart. Daniel gently kissed her forehead and said, "We can't choose our birth families, but we can choose the life we lead.

"I promise you that in your future, I'll always be there." He added, looking into her eyes with a soft smile, "Of course, if that's what you want."

Maisie smiled, quietly nestled in his embrace. After a while, she casually remarked, "Sometimes, I doubt if I'm really my mom's biological child. Her unfair treatment between Owen and me is just too much!" "Maybe... not all parents love their children."

"No." Maisie gently poked him. "It should be-not all parents love their children equally!"

"Right."

"In fact, I can understand her." Maisie sighed wryly. "Shortly after I was born, my father passed away due to an accident.

"Nicole is a few years older than me, and she could already remember things back then. She says my mother used to be a loving one, patient with her and Owen... But everything changed after I was born. Perhaps she believes... it's my fault that my father died, so she harbors resentment toward me?"

"Don't overthink it." Daniel caressed her head. "How did your father pass away?"

"I don't know. It's all old stories, and my mother never talks about it. I only know a little from Nicole," Maisie replied nonchalantly. "I just know that my father used to work as a driver for a wealthy person and earned quite a bit. He was the breadwinner of our family."

Daniel nodded.

He thought that Maisie would have grown up under her parents and siblings' protection if not for that accident. The Squires wouldn't be in this state, and she would have been a happy girl.

But then, wouldn't he have missed the chance to meet her?

Daniel smiled, hugging her tighter.

"Maisie asked softly, "By the way, when I saw you greet Harvey in the hospital room... Do you know him?"

Daniel pursed his lips. "Sort of."

"Do you know him well?"

"He's the youngest heir of the Newhouses. I haven't had any direct conflicts with him, but his father often causes me trouble. There's his older sister, who's also quite troublesome..." Daniel looked at her with a calm expression. "But in the business world, it's better to maintain harmony. I don't dwell too much on them."

Maisie didn't catch onto the last part. Her thoughts were still on his previous words.

"He has an older sister?" Her voice was questioning. "How is she troublesome?"

"Well..."

"Have you dealt with her before?"

"The Newhouse Group is the strongest competitor of the Quimby Group. We certainly cross paths often."

"So, his sister often bothers you?"

Daniel paused, suddenly catching a different emotion on Maisie's typically gentle face. He chuckled. "What else do you want to know?"

Maisie freed herself from his embrace, sitting up straight to avoid revealing too much of her interest.

"Nothing."

"I have two projects coming up that require negotiations with the Newhouse Group. His sister will be in charge. If you're interested, I'll take you with me for the next negotiation!"