Ch. 11..20

Chapter 11: He Will Be Responsible Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Max Gaston’s phone rang. He glanced at it and immediately rejected the call. He then stared fixedly at Mary and said, “I’ll hold a press conference either today or tomorrow to cancel my wedding with Sandra White.” Mary was startled for a second. Her expression changed when she finally processed what Max had said. “There’s no need for that.” Max frowned. His tone became a notch colder. “Back then, I did not know that the person that night was you. Now that I do, I have to be responsible for you and Jason.” “Max, do you only think of responsibility?” Mary asked. She looked mockingly at him. She took a step back to put some distance between them, then looked into his eyes. She continued, “I was not the only one there back then. Sandra White was there too. Moreover, didn’t she also once have your child?” Max’s voice suddenly turned much deeper, “Mary.” The atmosphere instantly grew cold. It was as if all the air had been sucked out of the room, making it hard to breathe. Mary ignored Max’s fury and continued, “I still remember that you accompanied Sandra to her pregnancy test back then.” There was a flash of pain in her eyes as she said that. She tightened her fists. There was a ripping pain in her heart as she thought about the child that left her. She pursed her lips, then said coldly, “Go back, Jason and I don’t need you to look after us.” She was about to leave the room when Max immediately grabbed her wrist. He placed his other hand on her slender waist. Their bodies instantly pressed against each other. “Max Gaston,” Mary dropped the politeness. She could not free herself from Max’s strength just by struggling. Max twirled her around before finally pressing her against the door. His body heat lingered beside her ear. Max said coldly, “I will investigate what happened five years ago and give you an explanation.” “You can’t even remember what happened five years ago, yet now you want to give me an explanation?” Mary asked. Tears welled up in her eyes as she continued, “Moreover, I’m not going to marry a corrupted man. If you really think that your actions back then have hurt me and feel guilty about that, then hold your wedding with Sandra as planned.” “Impossible,” Max replied, suppressing his fury. He felt that Mary did not know what she was talking about. However, Mary meant exactly what she said. Not only would she not marry someone so corrupt, but she also would not marry the son of the people who killed her parents. Even if this man was someone she had once thought of as her closest kin. “This is what you and Sandra owe me,” Mary uttered firmly. “Mary Hanks,” Max said, his voice icy. The phone in his pocket rang again. He removed his hand from around Mary’s waist and took out the phone. This time, it was Sandra White who was calling him. It hurt Mary to see the name on the screen. Mary’s voice suddenly became softer, “Unless you agree with my request to hold your wedding with Sandra White, I’ll immediately find a man to marry and make Jason adopt his last name.” “…” “You won’t marry someone else if I hold the wedding with Sandra?” Max asked. “Yes,” Mary replied. “…” Max’s expression was cold and stoic. He picked up Sandra’s call in front of Mary. Sandra’s voice rang out through the phone, “Max, when are you coming back? I’m waiting for you at home.” “I’ll be back soon,” Max replied. Max released Mary and left as promised after taking the call. Mary slid down the wall and onto the floor after Max’s footsteps disappeared. She had thought that she would not be upset when she did that. However, her heart still struggled when she came face to face with Max. It felt like someone was pulling on her heart. She could not describe what she was feeling. She took a deep breath and slowly calmed herself down. No matter what, Max had promised her to hold his wedding with Sandra White as planned. She was going to make Sandra’s life a living hell right when she was happiest. Outside the villa, Matthew Smith saw Max emerge. He immediately opened the door of the car and addressed respectfully, “Sir.” “Stop whatever work you have at the moment and reinvestigate what exactly happened five years ago,” Max instructed Matthew after he got into the car. “Sir, are you referring to the people who were with you in the hotel that night?” Matthew asked, a little hesitant. The people who had harmed Max that night had died a long time ago. Max’s face were ice-cold when he replied, “Yes.” “Sir, you suspect that Ms. White was not—” Matthew hesitated. “The surveillance footage of the hotel back then was altered, so you need not investigate that. Go to the hospital and see if the embryonic cells from Sandra’s miscarriage have been preserved,” Max said. “Understood, Sir,” Matthew responded. “Also, send men to keep an eye on Sandra and the Whites,” Max added. Though Max had always treated Sandra coldly over the years, he had never suspected that Sandra to not have been the person that night. However, he had to investigate it thoroughly now. Mary said that he had gotten intimate with not only her that night, but he had also done it to Sandra. He did not believe that. Sandra White and Sofia Garcia were doing a facial mask and watching TV in the living room when Max arrived home. Sandra looked at him emotionally and said, “Max, Sofia asked me to move in to recuperate. I’ll be staying in the room beside yours.” “The room beside mine?” Max mused. He dodged the arms that Sandra had reached out toward him and looked down at her in her wheelchair. His gaze was emotionless and filled with doubt. Sofia quickly smiled and said, “Max, the room beside yours has always been empty and Sandra has injured her leg. It’ll be easier for you to take care of her if she stays in that room. You can get her to stay in your room if you think that it’s too far. Both of you are about to get married anyway. Sooner or later—” “Mother,” Max interrupted Sofia with an emotionless voice, “That room is Mary’s. Get her to move upstairs to the room beside yours tomorrow.” Sofia’s expression changed slightly, “Max, Mary has eloped with some other man for five years. She would have contacted you during that time and let you know where she was if she had any conscience left in her.” “Mother, Mary did not elope with another man. Also, she did not refuse to let me know where she was,” Max explained. “Then where is she?” Sofia asked. “She’s back,” Max said as he swept his gaze toward Sandra in the wheelchair. Sandra looked at him curiously. Her gaze wavered slightly when she caught his eye. She then asked, confused, “Max, do you mean it when you said that Mary is back? Where is she now? Why didn’t you bring her back here?” Max’s eyes lingered on Sandra’s exquisitely made-up face. Sandra smiled. His expression darkened. He said indifferently, “Mary has just come back and does not have much free time.” “I see. Why don’t you give me Mary’s number? We were all very worried about her when she suddenly disappeared five years ago. Did she say why she left without a word?” Sandra asked. “She did,” Max replied. The air around him suddenly turned cold. This caused Sandra to stiffen. She forced a smile as she asked, “What’s the reason? Is it because you were too strict on her and forbade her to be in a relationship? Did she elope with the person she liked because of that?” “She did not elope,” Max repeated. An unidentifiable emotion flashed in his deep eyes when he thought about Mary. He said, his tone so chilling that it made Sandra’s blood run cold, “She barely escaped death and had a child alone in a foreign land. She finally thought it through and came back to find me.” Sandra’s face turned pale.

Chapter 12: Keeping Up the Lie Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Max’s gaze suddenly turned sharp. The topic quickly changed. He sneered, “Are you sure it as you who entered my room that night five years ago?” Panic flashed across Sandra’s eyes and she clenched her fists tightly. Pretending not to understand, she asked, “Max, what do you mean? Which night? Of course it was me who was with you back then. Don’t you remember? Why are you asking this?” Sofia noticed Sandra’s panic. She chided, “Max, are you referring to the night you had relations with Sandra?” Sofia shot an angry glance at him and continued, “Sandra is such an innocent girl. How could you ask such a question? You ruined her life! What do you want from her? Let me tell you what happened that night. You were drugged and lost your mind. Then you hurt her. From now on, don’t treat Sandra that roughly ever again.” Before Max could reply, Sofia smiled and urged him, “It’s late today. Quick carry Sandra back to her room to rest. Sandra’s leg is injured, so take it easy. I shan’t get in the way. I’ll go wash my face.” She pulled off the mask and went upstairs. Max and Sandra were left in the living room. The atmosphere was awkward. Sandra was still daydreaming about being in Max’s embrace. “Max, I’m a little tired. Can you carry me upstairs?” “You haven’t answered my question.” Max ignored her request. His face was as cold as ice and entirely devoid of expression. The aura emanating from him wrapped around her like an airtight net. He stared stonily at Sandra, so much so that she could hardly breathe. If Max had not been forced by Sofia back then, he would not have gotten engaged to Sandra. Sandra lowered her head and acted shy. She said in a soft voice, “When I went in that night, I saw that you were injured and wanted to send you to the hospital. I didn’t know that you were drugged and…” The more she spoke, the lower the voice became. Max’s eyes turned freezing cold. “Is that so? But Mary brought my child back and she already admitted that she was the one I wanted that night. Do you still intend to continue lying to me?” Sandra turned pale. Her voice trembled. “Max, you mean you also did it with Mary that night?” Max sneered, “No, Mary was the only one that night.” “Max, what do you mean?” Tears rolled down Sandra’s cheeks. “Do you mean that I faked the love bites on my body that night? Five years later, Mary now says she was also a victim. So you suspect that I lied to you?” She suddenly fell from the wheelchair. Her face scrunched up in pain. “Then I might as well die and fulfill yours and Mary’s wishes.” Then, she slammed herself into the coffee table beside him. She believed that Max would stop her, but he just stood there and watched on motionlessly. ___ In Mary Co. When Mary’s phone rang, Priscilla was in front of her desk unwrapping the aromatherapy products sent by the Garcia Group. Mary glanced at her phone. It was an unknown number. Priscilla smiled and said, “Mary, you can answer the call first. I’ll deal with the package.” Mary nodded. She pressed the answer button and said, “Hello.” Nothing came from the other end of the phone. Mary narrowed her eyes. “If you don’t say anything, I’m hanging up.” Her voice was cold. She could feel that this person was hostile. After two seconds of silence, Sandra’s voice could be heard. “It’s me. Can we meet? I’m at the ice cream shop downstairs.” When Sandra found out that Mary’s office building was opposite the Gaston Group, she swore to make Mary die a death even more miserable than the last time. “Come up if you want to see me.” Mary hung up the phone. When Priscilla knew that someone would be coming to meet Mary, she bent down and gathered the bottles on the table, preparing to carry them all of them out. Mary’s eyes fell on three white bottles. She pointed at them and said calmly, “Priscilla, please leave those three here. Let me take a look.” “Okay.” She picked up the rest and left Mary’s office. Mary put the small bottles in front of her. The first one was lotion, the second one was essential oil, and the third one was hydrosol. She looked at the samples in front of her and remembered that her mother used to enjoy using these. Sofia had gifted her mother a set on her mother’s birthday. After that, her father got into a car accident. And Sofia visited her home. Before her mother committed suicide, she reminded her to listen to Max. However, the day after she followed Max home…

Chapter 13: Moving In Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio On the second day after Mary had gone to the Gastons, Sofia had forced her to swear an oath. Sofia said, “Mary, you’re not allowed to fall in love with Max or Marcus. You’re not allowed to have the intention of sleeping on their beds and marrying them when you grow up. If you like them and get together with them, Max will die a horrible death.” The eight-year-old Mary had just lost her parents. Max had been the only one she could rely on. When she heard Sofia’s words, she had been scared to tears. There was an indescribable fear in her heart. Mary had sworn in a trembling voice the words Sofia had forced her to say. Onn every death anniversary of her parents, Sofia would remind her about her vow. She hadn’t known why Sofia had cursed Max instead of Marcus. She found out only after she had grown up. It was because Max was not… ___ Sandra was brought into the office building by her assistant. “Have your assistant wait outside.” Mary glanced at Sandra’s legs. Then her gaze landed on the scarf around Sandra’s neck. Sandra raised her hand and touched the scarf around her neck. She smiled coquettishly and said deliberately, “Last night, Max was too intense. He left a lot of love bites on my neck. I need a scarf to cover the them. Mary, I’ll feel embarrassed if you stare at my neck like that.” Sandra faked a smile and turned to instruct her assistant to wait outside. Mary asked Priscilla, who had followed them in, to go outside as well. She wanted to talk to Sandra alone. Priscilla was worried about Mary, but she still nodded and left the office. As she was leaving, she closed the door for them. When they left alone in the office, Sandra untied the scarf and said to Mary, “Mary, Max and I are getting married next month. Do you know…” Thwack! Thwack! Before Sandra could finish speaking, Mary slapped her both sides of her face, forcing it to tilt right and left helplessly. Mary’s sudden action made Sandra’s face swell. Sandra felt as if she could see stars, and she could taste blood in her mouth. When Sandra processed what had happened, her voice became shrill and angry. “Mary, how dare you hit me?” “How is it? Does it hurt?” Mary stood in front of Sandra’s wheelchair. She looked at Sandra disdainfully with absolute superiority, with a faint sneer of satisfaction crossed her face. She sneered, “You put in all that effort to find me. If I don’t slap you, it would be a waste of your efforts.” She had used all her strength to slap Sandra, and her hand was starting to hurt. Sandra’s face continued to swell. The fingerprints were clearly imprinted on her face. The scarf Sandra had just pulled off fell to the ground. The love bites on her neck were exposed to Mary. Mary looked at the marks. She suddenly recalled the love bites on Sandra’s neck five years ago that had caused her so much upset and despair. Her body had frozen over as if she had been in a house of ice. Now, Sandra was going to use the same trick again. “Mary, even if you hit me, it won’t change the fact that Max loves me. These love bites were left by him last night. Not just on my neck, but here and here as well.” She pointed at the two love bites on her chest and on her legs, enduring the pain on her face. She laughed without any restraint. “Max loves to leave marks all over my body and would have sex with me over and over again. Mary, you have only slept with him once. I’ve been with him for five years.” “Really?” Mary coolly took out her phone and took a few photos of Sandra. Sandra had not expected Mary’s actions. Her face contorted as she shouted, “Mary, stop! You’re not allowed to take my photos!” “I’m taking them as a memento.” Mary said nonchalantly, “The next time Max forces me to marry him, I’ll show him the photos and let him know that you’re the one he should be responsible to. You had better stop pestering me.” “Dream on! Max would never pester you or want to marry you!” Sandra panicked. Sandra had not seen this coming. She could not let Max see these marks. She ad planned to move out of the Gastons’ residence for the next week. Mary sneered at Sandra’s swollen face. She asked mockingly, “I remember that you’ve loved Max for many years, right? When did you start to love him?” “I’ve loved him since the first time I met him. It’s been sixteen years.” “You must love him deeply, right?” “That’s right. I love Max very much. No one other than me is allowed to marry him.” Sandra suddenly lowered her voice. Her eyes shone with hatred. She gritted her teeth and said, “Mary, why didn’t you die five years ago? It would have been great if you were dead.” “You really want to know?” Something flashed across Mary’s eyes. However, she quickly suppressed her emotions. Sandra stared at her and said, “I had even found several men for you. Why are you still alive?” Mary smiled. “Of course, I’m alive to be with the man you love. I don’t like those men. I only want the man whom you love the most. Sandra, it’s payback time. I’ll make you pay for what you did to me five years ago.” “Dream on!” Sandra said angrily, “I won’t let you get close to Max. You’re dirty.” She really regretted it now. She should have waited there that night to see Mary be toyed to death by the men and then explode into pieces. “Really?” Mary’s eyes were cold. Her slender fingers tapped away on the phone. A moment later, Sandra’s words came through the device. “I had already found several strong men for you…” “How dare you…” Sandra’s eyes widened. She didn’t expect Mary to record her words. Mary stopped the recording and held the phone with her fair fingers. She looked at Sandra disdainfully. “Sandra, don’t worry. I won’t let Max know about this recording for the time being. Actually, last night, he told me that he wanted to cancel the engagement with you. It was I who put in a good word for you.” “Are you trying to drive a wedge between me and Max?” “Drive a wedge between the two of you?” Mary pondered for a few seconds and suddenly laughed. “Of course not. I won’t do that, but what I will do…” She raised an eyebrow and dialed Max’s number in front of Sandra. She pressed the speaker button. The call was picked up after just two rings, and a low voice sounded. “Hello.” Sandra’s expression turned ugly. Mary glanced at her and asked casually, “Max, have you been living in the Gastons’ residence all these years?” “No, why?” The man’s voice was gentle. It sounded very pleasant, and it even carried a hint of affection. When Sandra compared this and Max’s attitude towards her, unconcealable hatred filled her eyes. Mary looked at the emotions reflected in Sandra’s face. A faint smile appeared on Mary’s beautiful face as she continued with her questions, “Doesn’t Sandra live in the Gastons’ residence? Doesn’t that mean that the two of you are living together?” “Am I that sort of unfaithful person in your eyes?” Max sounded annoyed. He had not touched Sandra once in the past five years. Now that he knew about her and Jason’s existence and said that he would be responsible for them, how could he have a relationship with Sandra? “I’m just making sure. If you’re not living with her, you can move in with me and Jason.” “Okay, I’ll move in tonight.” Max’s low voice could be heard after a moment of silence, Mary could hear his mood swing. Her voice was laced with gentleness. “However, to move in with us, I have one condition for you.” “Go ahead.”

Chapter 14: Mommy’s Wound Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Max’s mood improved greatly. His voice softened. Mary glanced at Sandra’s twisted face and continued, “If you move here, you have to do the household chores and cook for me.” “No problem.” Max had always cooked for her back then, so it was not an issue. It was enough to make Sandra choke with burning rage. Sandra closed her eyes. Max was the dignified CEO of the Gaston Group. The noblest man in Sheares would actually agreed to serve Mary? Sandra was furious. But she could not afford to make a sound. She could not let Max know that she was here. Otherwise, he would definitely come over. Then, he would see her current state. She gritted her teeth and made a silent vow. One day, she would make Mary die a horrible death. The call ended. Mary was in a good mood as she looked at Sandra whose face was twisted with anger. “Sandra, did you hear that? I was gone left for five years, but all this time you never attained Max’s heart.” “So what? He treats you nicely just because he feels guilty. I told you the same five years ago, that he treated you well because he knew the truth.” Sandra did not believe Mary would really fall for her enemy’s son. Mary did not seem to be bothered by this. “You should think about how to make Max love you. Or, you can use the information you have to threaten Sofia Garcia.” Sandra stared at Mary’s beautiful face. Why did she want to kill Mary back then? Other than Max being nice to her and having slept with her, it was because Mary was prettier than her. ___ In the day, Jason learnt kung fu from Fred and attended school. He had a very fulfilling schedule. However, he missed his mother so much after not seeing her all morning. During lunch, he had a video call with Max. Pretending to be pitiful, he asked, “Uncle, can I go to the office to look for you and wait for Mom to get off work?” In the morning, Mary had told him that she would be busy today. Jason knew he couldn’t follow Mary, but he was a little bored now and wanted to find someone to play with him. It was then that he remembered his Uncle Max whose office building was close to his mother’s. He could play with him and wait for his mother there. He thought it was a great and anticipated his agreement. Max agreed. “Of course. Let Fred send you over after lunch.” Jason was really excited. He thought that it would have a lot of fun at his uncle’s office. But Max was as busy as his mother. Max did not have the time to accompany Jason. Jason finished the puzzle that he had brought to the company, then continued to play another game by himself. Resting his cheeks in his hands, he studied Max for half an hour. Other than the fact that Max looked like him, he simply could not compare to him. For example, Max was not as adorable as him and not as sweet with his words. When Jason turned to look out the window again, it was drizzling outside. The sky was darker than before. He then thought of something. He slid down the sofa and said to Max, “Uncle, I’ll go to the building opposite to look for mom.” He ran towards the door. “Didn’t you say you would wait with me for her to get off work ?” Max raised his head to look at him. Jason ran to the door and turned around to tell him, “It’s raining outside. I have to go accompany mom. Mom’s wounds hurt on rainy days. I’m worried about her.” “She has wounds?” Max put down his pen and walked out from behind his desk. He walked to Jason, crouched down, and looked into his eyes. “When did your mother get injured? How and where?” Jason looked at Max as if he were an idiot. Jason couldn’t understand why his uncle was so stupid. After some hesitation, Jason lowered his head. He lifted the corner of his shirt, revealing his tummy, and pulled his pants down a little. He pointed at his belly and said straightforwardly, “There’s a long scar on mom’s belly. The doctor said that mom’s belly was cut because she wanted to give birth to me.” Max frowned deeply. He didn’t know that Mary suffered so much to give birth to Jason. He covered Jason’s shirt with his large hand and scooped him up in his arms. “I’ll go with you to find your mommy.” “Uncle, you’re as handsome as me.” Jason immediately flattered Max. The way Max listened to Jason and carried him was so suave. Jason wrapped his arms around Max’s neck and discussed with him in a childish voice, “Uncle, can you help my mother find a good husband?” Max frowned. “You want a stepfather? Aren’t you afraid that he will hit you and scold you?” “No, I am not.” There was no fear in Jason’s beautiful eyes. “As long as he treats my mother well, I will call him Dad and treat him well,” he said with great conviction. “We’ll discuss this later. Now, let’s go find your mom.” Max did not want to talk about this with Jason. He had to hide his identity from him for as long as he could. When Jason heard that Max wanted to accompany him to find his mother, he threw the thought about finding a stepfather to the back of his mind. “Okay.” Max walked out of the office with Jason in his arms. When Jason saw someone walking towards them. He kicked his short legs and said, “Uncle, put me down. I want to walk by myself.” Meanwhile, in the building opposite, where Sandra had been slapped twice in the morning, Sofia was here. When Priscilla asked Mary if Sofia should be let in, Mary was only surprised for only a second before letting Priscilla bring her in. Minutes later, Sofia appeared at the door of Mary’s office. Seeing her, Sofia called out excitedly, “Mary!” She quickly walked towards Mary. Mary’s slender fingers left the mouse. She turned to look at Sofia who had just entered. Five years had passed since they last met. Sofia seemed to have aged greatly. It could be because her relationship with Mr. Gaston was not good, or because both of her sons were single and childless. Even so, she was still elegant and graceful. After all, she had married Mr. Gaston, whose family was the wealthiest family in Sheares. Mary stood up. Sofia walked over and held Mary’s hand. Sofia’s throat felt tight just looking at Mary. She pretended to wipe her tears with the other hand. “Mary, you’re really alive. We’ve been so worried all these years. Max searched for you for a long time after you went missing. Everyone thought you died in that explosion. I am so happy that you’re alive.” Mary watched Sofia wipe her tears. A faint smile appeared at the corner of Mary’s lips. “I’m sorry to have made you worry. I almost died back then, but I was lucky.” “Really? Almost died?” Sofia looked at her in shock and pain. Mary said without much emotion, “Everything is in the past. I’m back now, Sofia. Yu don’t have to worry anymore.” “Yes, I’m not worried. It has been five years since we last met. Mary, you have gotten prettier. I heard from Max that you only just came back. Where have you been the past five years? Do you have a boyfriend? Max and Sandra are getting married. Have you heard?” Mary replied casually, “Yes, I have.” Sofia pretended to chat amicably with Mary as if she were her own daughter. “Max and Sandra should have gotten married five years ago. Sandra had a miscarriage and she was heartbroken. Max stayed up for several nights to watch over her. Sandra insisted on getting pregnant again before holding the wedding, so the wedding was delayed for a long time. Finally, they are getting married. You came back just in time.”

Chapter 15: Brother Will Not Agree Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Mary, with a light smile on her face, was stunningly gorgeous. It was the kind of beauty that could make men fall at her feet, and women jealous. Sofia looked at her face closely. She thought of her mother, who had passed away. She realized that Mary now looked very much like her mother back then. The hatred in her heart was about to break free from its restraints. “Mary, you’re twenty-three years old and you still don’t have a boyfriend?” “No, not yet.” Mary shook her head, pulled her hand away from Sofia’s, and turned to serve her some water. Sofia stared at her slender back, her slim waist and curves. To think that she not only came back alive, but has even brought back that wicked child. She gritted her teeth harder. Mary came over with a glass of water in her hand. Sofia said with a smile, “Mary, before I came here, I had specially compiled a list of unmarried young men in Sheares. All of them are excellent in all aspects, including character, education and looks. Let me make arrangements for you to meet them sometime.” “Well, I’m afraid I’m not the one who can make the call,” Mary said with a faint sense of hesitation. Sofia was puzzled, “Why?” Mary sighed, feeling a bit helpless, “My brother won’t agree.” Sofia laughed in exaggeration, “Max! That man! Why would he meddle with your dating life? He himself is so infatuated with Sandra. Two days ago, Sandra broke her leg during her shoot and stayed here yesterday. Before he carried her back to his room last night, I even reminded him to take it easy on her. But guess what I saw today? Sandra had hickeys all over her neck!” “I heard Sandra say that Max stayed with her till midnight… Now he’s getting into your business! I’ll talk to him later.” “Sandra is still not pregnant yet?” “Well, maybe they were trying to stay in love for a little bit longer, so they take the necessary precautions.” As she spoke, a cute voice suddenly came from outside the office again. Then a tiny little child ran in through the door, “Mom, Mom, I’m back.” Surprise flashed across Jason’s face when he saw Sofia sitting on the couch. He slowly came to a halt and then examined her for a moment. It seemed as if he was trying to ascertain if she was Mom’s guest, or here to bully her. His attempt was inconclusive. His beautiful big eyes looked inquiringly at Mary who was a few meters away. Sofia looked at Jason. His eyes, his features, and even his temperament were all the same as Max’s when he was a child. She unconsciously grabbed the straps of her bag and her eyes darkened. Quickly, she covered it with an affectionate smile, “Mary, this is…” Before Sofia came over, she had seen the photos Sandra had sent her. But it was still shocking to see the real person. Before she could fully compose herself, another tall, slim figure appeared at the door. In was, in a gray shirt and black pants, a picture of sophistication and elegance. Whenever and wherever he showed up, it was almost impossible to ignore him. Mary looked over at him, and her gaze met Max’s. His gaze was so deep that no one could ever escape it. Sofia saw the two of them looking at each other from afar, and her heart chilled. She interrupted them, “Max, I thought you were at work. Why are you doing here at this time?” Mary withdrew her gaze. Max walked in with a stern expression. With an air of indifference, he asked her in a calm tone instead, “Mother, why are you here?” “Uncle, is she your mother?” Hearing Max call her mom, Jason immediately looked over to him. “Yes, call her Grandma.” Max walked over to Jason, bent over, took his hand, and introduced them. Mary’s expression wavered. But she did not stop them. Jason said politely, “Grandma Gaston.” Joy lit up on Sofia’s face. She spread her arms open and said to Jason, “My dear grandson, come here, let me give you a hug.” Max let go of Jason’s hand and encouraged him to go over by glancing in Sofia’s direction. Mary suddenly called out, “Jason.” She went over and touched his face and said gently, “Go and find Aunt Priscilla to get cleaned up. See how dirty your little face has become.” “Really?” “Uh-huh.” “Okay, I’ll go find Aunt Priscilla!” Jason smiled at his mother ran out of the office. Sofia hadn’t really wanted to hug Jason, and she wasn’t mad at him for running away. Max’s eyes narrowed as he looked at Mary, and then he asked Sofia, “Mother, what business do you have with Mary?” “You said that Mary was back, so I thought I’d invite her to live at home. Living on her own is so inconvenient compared to living with us. But you came before I could say anything.” Max’s eye twitched slightly. In the morning, Mary had just invited him to live with them. He would rather move in with Mary and Jason than have them at the Gastons’. Max pulled his lips into a thin line and spoke in a low voice that disguised his emotions. “Mom, Mary and Jason already have a place to stay.” “Of course I know they have a place to stay, but it’s more convenient to live with us, right? And I can help take care of Jason while you guys are at work .” “Thank you, Aunt Sofia. But Jason has to go to school every day, so there is no need for you to take care of him.” “I see.” Sofia let out a sigh. She stood up and said, “In that case, I won’t force you. Mary, you have to go to work during the weekdays, but you have time over the weekend, don’t you? You and Jason should come home for dinner this weekend. Max, would you be available?” “Yes.” Max looked at Mary. Mary’s eyes narrowed, and when she looked at Sofia again, she simply smiled and replied, “Okay.” “It’s decided then. Max, I have something to talk to you about. Let’s go to your office.” “Mother, could you wait for me in my office? I would like to talk to Mary for a moment.” Sofia frowned and looked at Mary suspiciously. In the past, Mary knew what she should say with just one glance from her. Now, Mary’s expression remained unaffected, nor did she say anything. Sofia didn’t dare to control Max, so she said, “I’ll wait for you outside. Hurry up with your secret conversation with Mary.” Max watched Sofia walk out of the office, being going over to shut the door and locking it. Standing in front of the couch, Mary heard him lock the door. Cautious, her downcast eyes looked up. Once again, she met his deep, endless gaze. Her heart skipped a beat against her will. Max locked eyes with her for a few seconds. He walked up to her silently. His mature, crisp, masculine scent filled her lungs with her every breath. Mary sensed that something was strange in the atmosphere. Max’s lips were pursed and his eyes were dark. Silently, standing at half a head above her, he enveloped her in his scent. She wondered what madness he was going to unleash this time. She just wanted to dispel the tense atmosphere between them. Max’s hand suddenly reached for her slender waist. Mary’s feet instinctively took a step back. In her heels, she tripped over the coffee table, and as she lost her balance, her body leaned back and threatened to fall over. Max’s hand quickly shifted from where it had been, and clasped over her slender waist firmly. In one swift motion, he then brought her into his arms. Mary’s soft flesh and Max’s masculine chest pressed against each other. Sparks collided between them. Mary raised her head to look at him, and just as she called out, “Max…” he suddenly held the back of her head. He bent over, and kissed her hard on the mouth. As her mind blanked, the man’s long, slender hand lingered around the hem of her dress…

Chapter 16: John Liam’s Confession Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Mary Hanks was suddenly jolted back into reality. She pushed Max Gaston away angrily. “Max Gaston!” “Don’t move,” Max said as he stared at Mary’s lips, which were now tender from being kissed. His Adam’s apple moved sexily as he said in a raspy voice, “I’m only checking out the wound on your stomach.” Mary stopped trying to push him away when he said that. Max once again pulled the lower hem of her shirt aside with his slender fingers. He touched the fair skin on Mary’s stomach with his slightly coarse fingertips. Mary immediately trembled. She had just laid her hand on Max’s chest without any force yet when he tightened his grip around her waist. Her hand was caught between their bodies. She could clearly feel the heartbeat through his chest. Her face became feverish and her mind was in utter chaos. She heard Max’s raspy voice, which was now tinged with a little pity for her, reverberate around the office. “Jason said that you nearly lost your life when you gave birth to him and that you had a C-section. He said that your wound would act up whenever it is about to rain.” Mary’s expression wavered. Max’s words had tugged on a specific memory. Her heart was suddenly filled with immense grief. She was not grieving about how she had almost lost her life when giving birth to Jason Hanks. Instead, she was grieving for the baby that she failed to deliver. That was a regret that she could not make up for even if she gave up her life. Mary suddenly and forcefully pushed Max away just as he hooked his fingers into the band of her dress and was about to look at her belly. Max’s muscular figure was forced a step back. He looked at Mary’s reddened eyes. His gaze turned a shade darker as he called her, “Mary.” “Don’t call my name. Don’t touch me,” Mary said. She seemed to have suddenly transformed into a different person. She was breathing hard. The gaze she looked at Max with was foreign and spiteful. She fumed, “Get out. I don’t want to see you right now.” It didn’t matter that Max had promised to take responsibility. She would not have lost one of her babies if she had not seen him being intimate with Sandra White when she woke up. She had gone through much suffering and indignance to keep Jason. How was that something she could forget just because of one of Max’s pity-laden sentences? She had been given daily injections, drugs, and undergone countless tests. She had been bedridden. Despite that, she was constantly afraid. She was afraid that she could not keep Jason and that Jason would not be healthy. The fear and worry she felt during those days were like an invisible hand tightly grasping her heart, refusing to let go. That feeling was something that only a mother would understand. Back then, she had not only just narrowly escaped death, but she had also just become a legal adult. She could still be considered a child if her parents had been by her side. Yet, at that time, Max was getting involved with Sandra White. “Mary,” Max called out again. He knitted his brows and looked at Mary with his deep eyes. “Get out!” Mary shouted, much more agitated than before. “Fine, I’ll leave,” Max said, his expression a little ugly. “Calm down for now. I’ll get back to work. I’ll wait for you downstairs when you’re done to head back together.” Max opened the door to see Priscilla Johnson looking worried. “Go in and accompany Mary,” Max said without emotion. He then surveyed the surroundings but did not find Jason. He left the office building alone. Priscilla had come over when she heard Mary shout but she could not enter the room as Max had locked the door. She quickly walked toward her and asked with concern, “Mary, are you alright?” “I’m fine,” Mary replied. She looked into Priscilla’s eyes and forced a smile to reassure her. Priscilla nodded and did not pursue the matter. The office momentarily fell silent. Priscilla only whispered a question sometime later, “Mary, did you tell Max that his mother and Sandra were the ones who harmed you back then?” “No,” Mary answered while shaking her head. “You have to be careful now that they know that you’re back,” Priscilla warned. “I know,” Mary responded. She suppressed the emotions in her heart. She had accepted Max’s bodyguards and his offer to stay with them to protect herself from those two. She had to guarantee Jason’s safety. As for herself… A look of determination flashed in Mary’s clear eyes. All she wanted was to seek revenge for herself, her parents, her unborn baby, and the Johnsons. She would not be able to avoid them if she wanted to gather evidence. — Mary was exhausted as she had met both Sandra White and Sofia Garcia on the same day. She did not want to face Max again and followed Priscilla to the company dinner even though Priscilla was supposed to go alone. The dinner was for the leaders of the various departments. Coincidentally, John Liam, whose dinner offer to her had been rejected, was also there. He was sitting at the end of the table. Three middle-aged men were on his left and a young woman was at his right. Mary and the rest arrived a little later as they had been held up by traffic. John was looking down, going through the messages on his phone. He looked up when he heard some noise. His slender fingers stopped scrolling. His gaze turned from calm, to shock, then to elation. Unable to hide his emotions, he immediately stood up and called, “Mary!” Mary was a little shocked. She then smiled. It had been five years since they last met. John no longer looked as young and inexperienced as he had. His actions exuded the charm of a mature man. He was the son of the Liams after all. He had an extraordinary disposition. The people in the room saw that John Liam recognized Mary, and even friendly with each other. Thus, they immediately treated Mary and Priscilla warmly. Mary and Priscilla settled into their seats after some formalities. John casually looked at the middle-aged man to his left. That man immediately understood his intentions and stood from his seat away with a smile. He offered Mary to take his place. “Mary, we have not seen each other for a long time. Please sit here,” John said with a refreshing smile. Even his voice had an air of nobility. Mary smiled and agreed, and took her seat beside John. The atmosphere of the dinner was great. The department leader from the Network Intelligence Bureau praised their public media accounts for being positive and relevant to the masses, instead of being focused on celebrities. One of the accounts reported the deeds of the country’s unsung heroes, while the other shared heartwarming stories of ordinary people. The leader told them to keep up the good work. John took the initiative to send Mary back home after dinner. Priscilla coincidentally received a call from Paul and she had to excuse herself. Thus, Priscilla left Mary in John’s care, saying, “Mr. Liam, please send Mary back home safe. Thank you.” Priscilla ran away before Mary could even protest. John looked at Mary and beamed when she nodded. As he drove her home, John asked Mary about her life. He did not drive fast and it was already ten-thirty by the time they reached the Hanks villa. John unfastened his seatbelt, then got off the car and took out a long box from the boot. He said, “Mary, I bought this gift for Jason. Please pass it to him.” Mary raised a brow and declined, “John, I’m already very thankful that you sent me back. I can’t accept your gift.” Mary bade her goodbye and had just turned around when John suddenly grabbed her wrist. He pulled her into his embrace, then gently and emotionally confessed his love, “Mary, I’ve been waiting for you all these years. We were too far apart when you were overseas. Now that you’re back, I hope that you’ll give me a chance to take care of you and Jason.”

Chapter 17: I’ll Make You Remember Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Most of the city was still bustling at ten-thirty on a summer night. However, Mary suddenly could not hear anything around her. John Liam’s words were the only things that reverberated in her ears. That, and John’s warm breath. His words brought Mary back to five years ago when John had gently told her on the college campus that he would wait for her. “John, I—” Mary stammered as she struggled to free herself from John’s embrace. There was a hint of disappointment in John’s eyes as he interrupted, “Don’t be in such a hurry to reject me.” He continued, smiling bitterly under the moonlight, “Mary, I hated myself when I found out that you met with a mishap five years ago. I hated myself for only telling you that I’ll be waiting for you on the college campus that night. I hated myself for not being more selfish and arrogant, and not bringing you to the capital. As long as you are willing, I guarantee to treat Jason like my own. We don’t have to have more children after we get married. Jason alone is enough.” “…” John continued, “Mary, if these words make you uncomfortable or trouble you in any way, pretend that I never said them. We can start by being friends. Goodnight.” John got into the car and left. Mary stood there in a daze. She did have feelings for John back then. However, Max Gaston had been very strict with her. He had overbearingly and unreasonably forbidden her from getting close to anyone of the opposite sex. Max said that Paul, who had played with her since young, would lead her astray as Paul had dropped out of high school. He said that John, who had exceptional grades, was a playboy and treated every girl nicely. He also said that the Liams had already chosen a wife for Paul. They had even fought because of this. Max had wanted to reconcile with her on her birthday night. He did not explicitly say so but Mary could tell from his tone over the phone. She had made an excuse to leave and go fetch him after hanging up. However, he did not appear even after she waited for half an hour. It was then that she went to the hotel room that Max always stayed in… “He’s already left. What are you lingering outside for?” Mary was startled by the sudden sound of a man’s voice. She turned around, only to see Max Gaston’s cold figure standing in the shadows. He was staring at her with his deep eyes, though she could not make out the emotion within them. The air around him was heavy and cold. Mary only noticed now that Max was accompanied by Matthew Smith, who was carrying a set of luggage. Max had witnessed the two of them hugging. ‘So it’s true when she said that there’s man she has always liked? Getting me to marry Sandra White, saying that she was going to find a stepfather for Jason— All of that is for Liam?’ Max thought, his expression turning a shade darker. Mary did not know where Max’s anger stemmed from. She was not in a relationship with John Liam, but even if she were, what right did this man, who had been such a terrible person for five years, have to meddle in her business? She bent over and grabbed the box John had left behind. However, Max grabbed her on the wrist and asked, “That man gave you this?” There was a tinge of fury in his voice. Mary looked up and met his deep, cold eyes, then raised her brows. She decisively pulled her arm back and said without emotion, “Max, John gave this to Jason. You can carry it for him.” The air instantly turned cold. A few feet away, Matthew Smith stopped in his tracks, not daring to get near them. Max stared at Mary for a few seconds, then picked up the box and threw it on the ground in front of Matthew. He ordered coldly, “Throw it into the bin.” “Max,” Mary protested. Max’s expression was dark. He commanded with his deep, robust voice, “Tell me if Jason wants anything. Don’t accept gifts from any other men, especially those with ulterior motives.” Max had recognized John the moment he stopped the car. John had carried a torch for Mary five years ago. He had even approached Max and addressed him as if he were his brother, among other nonsense. Mary was infuriated when she saw Matthew carry the box toward the bin. She threatened, “If you throw the gift away, tomorrow, I’ll agree to his request to be together with him.” “…” Matthew’s hands were trembling in fright. He dropped the gift onto the floor. Max’s eyes became impossibly dark and sinister. He locked his grip around Mary’s wrist and growled, his tone even deeper than just now, “Mary, try getting together with John Liam, and wait and see if the Liams will hold their position the second-most influential family in Sheares.” Mary was angered. She struggled but only hurt her wrist. She mocked, “You can’t even tolerate a gift that another man bought for Jason. Why do I have to accept you, who bedded another woman?” “So you want me to marry Sandra White as planned, for Liam?” Max roared. He had to control the strength he was exerting so as not to break Mary’s wrist. Max knew that Mary was unwilling to marry him. He knew that she had many secrets, and may treat him as an enemy. He knew that she was no longer the young girl who relied on him. “I merely do not want to foil your wedding. You have to be responsible towards her, right?” Mary stated. “What if I say that there is nothing between Sandra and me?” Max asked. Mary suddenly laughed, as if she just heard a joke. She mocked, “Max, do you even believe that? Sandra even got pregnant after you did it with her five years ago.” “So you’ve always thought of me as impure and have never considered my suggestion?” Max questioned further. His grip around Mary’s wrist was getting tighter and tighter. Mary was in increasing pain and could not break free no matter how much she struggled. She clenched her teeth and replied, “Yes.” That one word broke the last remnant of Max’s self-control. There was a storm in his eyes as he asked, laughing coldly, “And you think that John Liam is that pure?” Mary did not speak. However, Max interpreted her silence as disdain for him and silent approval for John Liam. He turned his head and roared fiercely at Matthew Smith, “Throw that box away immediately!” Matthew responded mechanically and picked up the box, then threw the box into a bin a few inches away like an unfeeling robot. Mary’s fury was also ignited when she heard the box hit the walls of the bin. She seethed, “Max Gaston, let go of me.” ‘Great. She has argued with me time and time again for the same man and now she’s even calling me by my full name,’ Max thought. He laughed coldly and spoke, as if he was going to break Mary’s wrist, “You haven’t answered me yet. Do you really think that Liam is such a great man?” He was determined to get an answer, to hear it straight from her mouth. “That’s right. He’s better than you. I liked him five years ago and I still like him now,” Mary responded. She had just finished her sentence when Max suddenly forcefully pushed her toward the tree a few steps away. Caught off guard, the impact sent waves of pain down her back. She immediately teared up. Before she could even react, Max’s furious voice rang out beside her ears, “That Liam is pure and I am not? Don’t you forget, you were also been bedded by me five years ago. You’re as dirty as I am.” “I’ve forgotten. I’ve forgotten about it a long time ago. Max Gaston, let go of me,” Mary pleaded. “I’ll help you regain your memories right now!” Max snarled. He had just finished his sentence when he violently forced her mouth open with his fingers and kissed her. Mary froze. Her teary eyes widened in fury. Not far away away, Matthew had run into the villa with the luggage in fright. Under the tree, Max turned Mary around, and started pushing her dress up…

Chapter 18: Insult Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio Mary finally burst into tears. Suddenly, she felt like she had returned to that night five years ago. She recalled the pain she felt when she was under him, and the helplessness and despair of being stared at by the men outside the abandoned chemical plant. She gave up struggling because she knew it would be in vain. She had tried five years ago, but he had held her down her with all his strength so that she couldn’t even move. She knew that she couldn’t push him away this time – just like that night. As Mary lay on the branches, she prepared herself to relive the nightmare. Her body froze like a broken doll without a soul. All she could do was cover her face with her hands and arms and let herself be handled at will. Any lingering affection between them was slowly killed by his very own hands. After a while, the man stopped. He hugged her stiff body for a few moments. Many bruises had appeared on Mary’s hands and arms when she was covering her face. Her skin had been scraped by the branches. She was in excruciating pain, but her expression did not change. The man moved her arms down from her face. Under the dim streetlights, he froze in shock upon seeing the tears on her face. The jealousy that had overtaken him earlier gradually dissipated. He felt immense guilt for his behavior and his eyes were wild with sadness. “Mary.” The man called her name. Mary slowly opened her eyes. There was nothing but coldness. She understood that if she wanted revenge, she had to pay a price. Max probably regarded her body as a bargaining chip. “Get lost if you’re done.” She spoke with a voice and expression so impassive, it was as if they were strangers. The guilty Max was feeling dissipated. He was furious at her attitude. Gritting her teeth, Mary slowly picked herself up. Max bit his lips, as if he wanted to say something. When he was about to speak, Mary interrupted him, “Thank you for helping me make up my mind.” She didn’t want to see Max. He made her sick. She lowered her head and looked around. When she found her necklace that had fallen by her feet, she bent down and picked it up. Then, she fixed her dress and raised her head. She still avoided looking at Max. She moved to take a step forward, but her legs gave way and she stumbled. Max quickly reached out and pulled her into his arms. “Make up your mind about what?” he asked, frowning. He was suppressing his emotions. Meeting his dark eyes, Mary sneered, “After experiencing such a jerk, I know that he is a good man.” Max was furious with her answer. It meant she wouldn’t give up John due to Max’s earlier actions. That she had made the decision to be with John. Max’s anger rose. He wouldn’t allow her to do so. As he was about to explode, he noticed that her hand was bleeding. Even through the dim lights, he could still see that she was injured. His black pupils dilated. He realized that he had hurt her. He bent down to pick her up. Mary had no strength to struggle. And she didn’t want to struggle, because she knew it would be useless. Max carried her into the villa, through the living room, and went upstairs. Her eyes were closed as if she was asleep. However, Max knew that she was only pretending. Under the bright light, he looked at her pale face and pursed his lips tightly. He entered the bedroom and carried her into the bedroom, then placed her in the bathtub. Just as he was about to fill the bath, Mary opened her eyes and said icily, “Get out.” Max’s expression darkened. “You’re injured.” Mary replied said with a wry smile, “You’re right. I’m dirty. I was taken by you. And because of you, I was defiled by numerous other men. I can’t be any dirtier. But John likes me, and I like him. Not only do I want to be with him, but I also want Jason to take his last name.” “What nonsense are you spouting?” Max was boiling with rage as he glared at Mary. He didn’t expect her to insult herself like that. Mary’s tears flowed down her cheeks. “You can find out for yourself whether I’m spouting nonsense. There were five men. Although the chemical plant exploded, you should know that five men died there.” “Mary, I…” “Get lost now!” Mary interrupted Max harshly. Max stared at her for a long time before turning around and leaving the bathroom. Mary was left alone. She looked down at her hands for a few seconds, then began to sob without restraint. Why did she have to bear all the pain and hatred alone? If Paul had not arrived five years ago, those men would really have tortured her until she died. Paul had been seriously injured in order to save her. When she found out that Paul had been caught, she rushed back without hesitation, even if she hadn’t been fully prepared to face everything here. Mary gently tucked up her skirt. Her legs had also been cut by the branches. She endured the pain as she cleaned herself up. When she came out from the bathroom, Max had already left. Mary found a first aid kit and carefully applied some medicine before going to bed. In the corridor, Max was smoking cigarette after cigarette. He saw the lights in the room go off. He waited for a long time and then went to the Jason’s room to take a look at him, who was fast asleep, before heading downstairs. Matthew and Fred were waiting in the living room on the first floor. Seeing Max come down, both of them looked at him expectantly. Fearless, Fred was the first to ask, “Sir, is Lady Mary asleep?” Max looked pointedly at on him. Fred’s body stiffened, but he did not avoid Max’s gaze. “Yes,” he answered simply. He walked to the sofa, sat down, took out a cigarette, and lit it. Matthew and Fred followed and stood near him. Fred reported, “Sir, I’ve gone to the hospital and done some checks. Miss White did not preserve the embryonic tissue after her miscarriage.” So she threw it away. Max had expected this outcome. His face remained emotionless as he took a few puffs. His solemn expression only became gloomier as he smoked. “Sir, I’ve already arranged for someone to keep an eye on the White family. Miss White didn’t return to the Gastons’ today, but went to the White family instead.” Max looked up at Matthew. Matthew continued hesitantly, “Miss White went to Lady Mary’s office this morning and they seemed to have some sort of discussion. When Miss White left, her face was swollen.” Although Sandra was Max’s fiancée, in all honesty, Matthew and the other staff members under Max did not take a liking to Sandra. She was too arrogant. They had a better opinion of Mary. Max kept silent. He merely narrowed his eyes and looked at the cigarette between his fingers. He was wondering if Mary’s words were true. She said that Paul had saved her. Then, who had harmed her? The people around her? Or the enemies? “Matthew.” He suddenly thought of something and spoke. Matthew immediately stood upright and answered respectfully, “Yes, sir.” “Get Walter to send more people to investigate the members of the White family and the people who are close to Sandra.” “Yes, sir.” “You have to dig something out.” “Sir, Paul hasn’t given up on investigating the car accident. Should we stop him?” “Let him be.” Max’s eyes darkened. Paul had found some sort of information during his own investigation and had wanted to kill him to avenge his parents. After Matthew left, Max instructed Fred, “Protect Jason and Mary.” “Yes, sir.” Fred answered firmly. Max said coldly, “If Mary really was harmed by someone back then, now that she’s back, the culprit will definitely take action. Fred, if you let Mary and Jason come to any harm, don’t show up in front of me ever again.”

Chapter 19: Mom’s Bully Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio When Mary opened her eyes, it was already the next morning. Her body hurt all over. She couldn’t move, so she just lay there and stared at the ceiling. Her eyes were blank for a long time before she remembered how she sustained her wounds. She raised her arm slowly and observed the scabs. Sadness, anger, and disappointment ebbed and flowed within her. As she looked on at back of her hand, there was a knock on the door. Jason asked in his childish voice, “Mom, are you awake? Can I come in?” She gently put her hand down on the bed and stared at the door. Marry hesitated. She didn’t want Jason to see her injuries and make him worried, so she didn’t answer him. She pretended to be asleep, as if she could not hear him. “Mom?” Jason asked again. “Are you inside? I miss you. I had nightmares last night.” He knocked on the door again. Mary could not bring herself to leave Jason outside the door. “Come in,” Mary said. Jason pushed the door open. She sat up slowly. Jason’s small body seemed to carry a gust of wind as he ran to the bed. As he did, the smile on his face suddenly disappeared. His brows furrowed, and his voice was laced with anger. “Mom, why are you hurt? Who dared to bully you?” His heart ached so much and he wanted to avenge his mother. Mary forced a smile and comforted him, “Jason, don’t be angry. Mom’s fine.” “How can you be fine when you are so badly injured? It must be painful. Mom, tell me who did it. I can’t beat him up, but Fred and Max can help! I’ll go find them!” He turned around and ran toward the door. Mary tried to stop him. “Jason, come back!” But Jason did not listen to her. Jason ran out of the room and into Max who was at the doorway. He looked up, then shouted anxiously, “Max, I don’t know who had the guts to bully my mother. She’s hurt bad. Go take a look!” Max’s eyes flickered. Holding Jason’s hand, he entered the room. Tears began to well up in Jason’s eyes. He gritted his teeth and said, “Some bad guy hurt my mother. If I had a new father, my mother wouldn’t have been bullied.” He knew that he was still too young to protect his mother. He had to find a good man to help him protect her. Jason them pulled his hand out of Max’s grasp. He trotted to the bed, opened his arms, and hugged his mother tightly. He even patted her head and said solemnly, “Mom, I will definitely grow up fast and learn martial arts from Fred. I will also find a good father to protect you and not let you be hurt by bad guys.” Max looked at Mary, but she ignored him. She lowered her eyes and patted Jason’s back. She didn’t want Jason to be sad anymore, so she decided to tell him a white lie. She explained gently, “Jason, I wasn’t bullied by bad guys. I was bitten by a dog when I was on the way back last night.” Jason looked up. He asked, “Mom, where is that dog? I’ll go beat it up! Also, have you been vaccinated? People need to be vaccinated against dog bites!” “Of course.” Mary gently caressed Jason’s head. Jason stared at her hand for a few seconds and blew on it. It warmed her heart. “Mom, does it still hurt?” “If Jason blows on it, it won’t hurt anymore.” “Jason, let’s go downstairs first. Let your mom wash up before breakfast.” Max’s gentle voice broke the warm atmosphere. Jason turned to look at him. He smiled gently at Mary and whispered in her ear, “Mom, I love you.” He then left the room with Max to wait for her downstairs. Half an hour later, Mary went down. She saw Jason and Max sitting at the dining table, chatting away. The way Jason looked at Max was full of admiration. As she came down from the final step, the man at the dining table looked up at her. It was hard to figure out what he was thinking through those eyes. Mary turned her gaze away and walked towards them. Max got up and pulled out a chair for her. “Mom, have an egg.” Over the past few years, Mary had cooked an egg for Jason almost every day. Jason had been responsible for peeling the eggs since he was two. “Thank you, Jason.” Because of her injury, Mary had sent Priscilla a message saying that she wouldn’t be in the office for the next two days. Priscilla thought that Mary was sick, so she gave her a call. She was relieved to hear that she was fine. Mary rested for three days. The medicine she had applied was excellent. Upon waking up on the fourth day, she was almost fully recovered. Unless people looked closely, they would not be able to see her wounds. On a working day, Jason insisted on seeing her off with Fred. He raised his head to look at Mary. “Mom, Fred and I will protect you!” Mary didn’t stop him. At the office, Priscilla felt that something was off about Mary when she saw her. Priscilla held Mary’s hand and asked worriedly, “Mary, what happened? Were you recuperating at home these few days? Did Sandra do something to you?” The questions came one after another. Mary shook her head with a smile. “No, I fell and hurt myself.” “You fell?” Priscilla frowned and recalled, “John sent you home that night. How did you fall? I’ll call him and ask him what happened.” “Priscilla.” Mary grabbed Priscilla’s hand. “It has nothing to do with John.” “Really?” “Yes.” “Anyway, did you hurt yourself anywhere else?” Mary was wearing long sleeves and pants, so Priscilla could only see only the wounds on her hands. Other than those, Priscilla could not be sure if there were any other. Mary shook her head. “No, just my hands. How’s Sofia?” “Oh, they will come over this afternoon to finalize the proposal. Mary, they want us to do an interview with Sandra.” “Interview?” Mary walked to her desk, pulled out the chair, and sat down. Priscilla explained, “Sofia wants to take advantage of Sandra’s wedding. So, before Sofia promotes the products, she wants to Sandra to have an exclusive interview.” Many reporters always tried to schedule an interview with the famous film star, but Sandra rarely ever agreed to give one. However, it seemed like Sofia could persuade Sandra to go through with it this time. “As long as Sofia can get Sandra to agree, we will arrange an interview for her.” Mary turned on the computer, and frowned as something occupied her mind. Priscilla nodded and continued, “Mary, there’s something else. Yesterday, I received a call from the Gaston Group. They want to establish a long-term working relationship with us.” Mary froze, her hand on the mouse stopped. She looked up and met Priscilla’s gaze, only to laugh coldly. Three days ago, Max had gone on a business trip on the very next day after he had pushed her down. Matthew informed her that Max would be back in about a week. “Mary, should we agree to the Gaston Group’s proposal?” The Gaston Group was definitely a capable company. Many would grab such an opportunity. Once Mary secured a contract with the Gaston Group, she would no longer need to consider other business partnerships. Priscilla knew that much, but she was unsure about was the personal relationship between Mary and Max. Mary focused her vision back to the computer. She asked casually, “Who contacted you?” “Lily.” Priscilla thought that perhaps Mary didn’t know who Lily was, and so after a while, added, “Max’s chief secretary.” His chief secretary? Why did Max want to cooperate with her now and even get his chief secretary to contact them? Because he felt that he needed to compensate for what he had done to her? Or because he felt guilty after knowing about those men five years ago? Mary’s scorn for Max deepened. She said calmly, “Reject them for now. Tell them that we’re busy promoting Garcia Group’s products and preparing for Sandra’s interview. If they want still want to work together, they’ll have to wait until after Max and Sandra’s wedding.”

Chapter 20: Conflicting Feelings Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio At 11: 30 a.m., a young man delivering flowers came to Mary Co.’s office. “I’m look for Mary Hanks?” Mary was at Priscilla’s seat, looking at the proposal for Garcia Group and the edited pictures. Before she could speak, someone shouted, “Here! Mary is here!” The man passed a bouquet of vibrant red roses to Mary. “Miss Hanks, please sign here.” Mary took a look and signed. Priscilla took out the card from the flowers and handed it to Mary. She smiled and said, “Mary, quickly take a look at which admirer these are from.” Yvonne, a neighboring colleague, looked at Mary with admiration. “It’s only right that such a beauty would receive flowers. I want to pursue Mary too! Mary, are you bi? Would you consider me?” Mary smiled back at her. “Sorry, I’m not interested.” Everyone burst into laughter. Yvonne pretended to be heartbroken. “Mary, you’re so direct. How can my heart take it?” “Alright, enough.” Priscilla patted Yvonne’s head. “If you continue, we will have no appetite for lunch.” Mary laughed and she was about to say something to Yvonne, but before she could, her phone rang. Mary stood up and said to Priscilla, “Distribute the roses to everyone.” She went back into her office to answer the call. It was John. His voice was low and pleasant to the ears. “Mary, I’m downstairs now. Shall we have lunch together?” “John, I…” “Other than treating you to lunch, I have some business to discuss with you. It’s about your father’s accident.” John’s tone turned serious. “John, do you mean you have clues to the accident back then?” Mary said nervously, tightening her grip on her phone. “I’ll give you the details later.” “Okay,” Mary answered. After she hung up the phone, she took her bag and entered the elevator. The Liam family was not as powerful as the Gaston family in the business world. But they had an upper hand in the political arena. When Mary exited the building, she saw John leaning against his car, waiting for her. It was a scorching hot day. John was physically attractive – muscular yet classy. Women who walked by all looked in his direction. Mary waved her hand and greeted John. He opened the car door when he saw he coming from a few meters away. He looked into her eyes and smiled. “Mary, hop on.” “Thank you.” Mary closed the parasol she had been carrying and got into the car. On the opposite street, Max had just walked out from the gate. He saw Mary getting into John’s car. John put his hand on the top of the car door to protect Mary from bumping her head as she went in. He was gentlemanly and considerate. She even looked up and met his gaze before she fully disappeared inside. From Max’s perspective, it as if they had feelings for each other. His handsome face instantly darkened. He clenched his fist and gritted his teeth. He took out his phone and to call Mary, but instead, his phone rang. He glanced at the number and answered the call. “Max, are you free this afternoon? Come have lunch with us at 1587. Let me update you about the progress.” It was Max’s good friend, Gordon Polt. Two years ago, he returned to Sheares just two years ago. “Okay. See you in the afternoon.” Max did not ask any further. As he was answering the call, he was watching the car until it blended into the traffic and went out of sight. … 1587 was a restaurant suitable for both business and leisure. It was a quiet location exclusive to members. In the hall on the first floor, partitions had been installed between tables to separate them, while the second to the fourth floor housed many private rooms. This was where the elites of Sheares gathered. John and Mary were part them. They had chosen a private room on the third floor. After placing their orders, the waiter poured some water for John and Mary and left the room. John stared at Mary’s hand and asked calmly, “Mary, what happened to your hands?” Mary had thought he wouldn’t have noticed them. Blinking slowly, she said with a dismissive tone, “I fell and my hands scraped against the floor.” “Really?” An inquisitive look flashed across John’s eyes. John pursed his lips at the thought of how Max had looked at him when he sent her back that night. Mary quickly changed the topic and asked, “John, you have clues to my father’s accident that happened that year?” “I looked through the documents and found something suspicious. The case was closed in a hurry because the witness said that it was a normal car accident.” Mary recalled the day, when she was still only eight years old. The day of the car accident was her father’s birthday. Before her father left, he had promised her that he would blow out the candles on the birthday cake with her at night when he came back. However, when she saw her father again, he was cold and covered in blood. She had cried so loudly. The rims of her eyes were red and swollen from her tears. But no matter how much she cried, her father did not return. “This eyewitness, they can no longer be contacted?” Mary asked calmly. John’s expression turned grim. “Two years after the witness testified, he died in a car accident.” “And a few years ago, his family left the country. Mary, I’m currently looking for his family. Perhaps I can find some clues from there.” Mary nodded. “Thank you, John.” Although Paul was also looking for the witness’s family, there was little hope of finding them. She had been eight when her father had gotten into a car accident, while Paul was only fourteen. John said, “Mary, you don’t have to be so courteous with me. I want to help you find out the truth behind the accident. I also want to help you with what happened five years ago.” He knew something terrible had happened to Mary then, but he didn’t know what it was. He wanted to know, only then could he help Mary. Just then, there were two knocks on the door. After a moment, the door to the private room was pushed open, and the waiter came in with the dishes. A faint smile appeared on Mary’s delicate face. “This meal today shall be on me. Thank you for helping me. However, please don’t send flowers, or I will feel so embarrassed that I will no longer dare to sit down for a meal with you.” “Alright, I won’t send flowers anymore.” John laughed. Halfway through the meal, Mary got up and went to the washroom. She hadn’t expected to bump into Sandra there. The plaster on her legs had already been removed. Mary was surprised that she recovered so quickly. It might not have been that serious after all. “Mary, why are you here?” Sandra had been slapped twice by Mary that day. When she met Mary again, she was a little intimidated. Still, she managed to put on a smile quickly enough. “Did you come because you knew that Max and I are eating here? Did you send someone to watch me and follow me in order to find Max?” Mary sneered. Matthew had said that Max was going on a business trip for a week, yet Sandra said that they were eating together? Mary thought Sandra should keep up to date about Max’s business arrangements before lying. “Do you think that I need to find Max through you?” “Of course! If you didn’t follow me, why would you be here?” Sandra recalled Max’s attitude towards her not long ago. He was not as cold as before, and he even gave her a necklace. She laughed smugly and touched the necklace around her neck. “See? This necklace was given to me by Max.” Mary’s eyes paused on her necklace for a second before she entered the cubicle. Sandra sent Max a text message. [Max, I had fall in the washroom. It hurts. Could you do me a favor?] Sandra happened to leave just hen Mary came out of the cubicle, . Mary washed her hands and left the washroom. Not far from her, she saw Sandra throwing herself at Max, saying coquettishly, “Max, it hurts!”