Ch. 1051..1060

Chapter 1051

Mila walked out hastily, joyfully welcoming Nathan home. Imogen stood quietly in the living room, watching the doorway.

A strikingly handsome, authoritative middle-aged man entered, his gentle smile lighting up the room. Without changing his shoes, he wrapped Mila in a warm embrace and kissed her lips.

"Surprised to see me?" he said tenderly.

"Yeah, I thought you weren't coming home today," Mila replied with a smile, gently pushing him away.

Nathan chuckled affectionately. "I wanted to surprise you." Then he pulled her close for a deeper kiss.

Imogen lowered her head and looked away, feeling utterly awkward.

Mila quickly pushed against his chest, whispering, "Nathan, stop. We have a guest."

Nathan paused, curiosity lighting up his eyes as he looked toward the living room. "A guest?"

Mila hummed in response and handed him his slippers. "Change your shoes and come. I'll introduce you to a friend."

"Your friend?" Nathan asked as he changed his shoes.

"Yes. She's much younger than me, a junior who helped solve a rocket program issue for the space agency. She's incredibly talented."

Mila had always admired knowledgeable people, respecting talent regardless of age or nationality.

With his slippers on, Nathan walked into the living room with Mila's arm around his. Mila beamed, "Imogen, let me introduce my husband, Nathan..." She paused, her words hanging in the air.

Imogen looked up at Nathan, a tall, imposing figure who exuded a captivating blend of handsomeness, elegance, and maturity. He was the kind of man whose striking presence left a lasting impression, impossible to forget after just one encounter.

Nathan's powerful presence made her nervous. Moreover, he bore a striking resemblance to Jasper, though his gaze was even more intense and commanding.

Imogen waited for Mila to initiate the conversation.

Mila smiled. "Meet Mr. Morrison."

"Hello, Mr. Morrison," Imogen greeted politely with a nod.

Mila pointed to Imogen and said, "This is Imogen."

Nathan smiled warmly and extended his hand. "Nice to meet you, Imogen."

Imogen, slightly nervous, quickly grasped his hand with both of hers. "Nice to meet you too."

She appeared polite yet reserved. Nathan, on the other hand, was gracious and forthright. After the handshake, he sat and said, "Please, have a seat."

Imogen followed suit, sitting down nervously. Unsure of what to say she

nervced at Mila awkwardly She

felt a vague familiarity about Nathan but couldn't quite place it.

She sat quietly, a hint of unease in her demeanor.

Nathan, not particularly adept in

conversing with younger women et

turned his intense gaze to Mila and asked softly, "Is everything settled with the space agency?"

"Not yet," Mila replied.

"When will you be able to come back to the lab with me?" Nathan grumbled.

With a smile, Mila countered, "Is the lab really that desperate for me?"

Nathan leaned closer, whispering, "It's me who needs you."

Mila discreetly reached toward his waist and pinched hard.

Nathan winced with his lips pursed but maintained his composure.

Turning to Imogen with a gentle smile, Mila said, "Imogen, don't be so tense. Consider this your home."

Imogen's self-consciousness heightened. She smiled politely and nodded.

Hearing Mila's words, Nathan looked at her in surprise. He leaned closer and inquired in a whisper. "Are you matchmaking for Jasper?" Mila subtly shook her head.

Nathan, who hadn't looked closely before, took another good look at Imogen. She was indeed elegant and poised, a beauty who likely appealed to Jasper. Given Mila's approval, she must be very talented.

Just as Nathan was starting to misinterpret the situation, Mila leaned in and whispered, "She's married."

Chapter 1052

Nathan sighed softly, his lips pursing as he lowered his head.

Though he refrained from meddling in Jasper's love life, as a father, he couldn't shake off his concern.

Noticing that dinner was ready, Mila walked over to Imogen's side after the maid's call and said warmly, "Imogen, let's have dinner."

Imogen politely replied, "Sure. Thanks, Professor Winkler."

At the dining table, Mila warmly encouraged Imogen to eat more.

Imogen observed Nathan's reserved manner in speech but noticed how tenderly he looked at Mila, his eyes filled with affection. It reminded her of young couples in the bliss of new love, their eyes sparkling with adoration.

Unable to contain her smile, Imogen remarked, "Professor Winkler, your relationship with Mr. Morrison is extremely lovely. It doesn't seem like you've been married for decades."

Mila looked puzzled. "What should being married for decades look like?"

Imogen thought of Gregory and Carol. "It's usually about contempt out of familiarity, with feelings fading over time."

Mila and Nathan exchanged a smile. Mila responded, "Ours seem faded too, and not as passionate as when we first started dating."

Quick to reassure, Imogen insisted, "No, it doesn't seem to be faded at all. I can see it."

Mila explained, "That's because he's been stationed at the frontier for a while now. We haven't seen each other for quite some time." Surprised, Imogen asked, "Mr. Morrison works at the frontier?"

Mila nodded. "Yes."

Nathan smiled without saying a word. He served Mila some meat and advised, "Eat more protein. You've lost weight since I last saw you."

As if a pampered little princess, Mila playfully complained, "It's all those late nights. The rocket tests keep failing, and the data was consistently off." Nathan couldn't help but furrow his brow. "Take care of yourself no matter how busy you are."

"Alright, I will." Mila smiled knowingly.

Imogen couldn't help but notice Nathan's expressions and the fondness in his eyes, sensing a striking resemblance to Jasper. Lost in her thoughts, she nervously lowered her head and focused on her meal when she felt Nathan's gaze on her.

Caught peeking at Nathan, she felt incredibly embarrassed and awkward.

She simply noticed the resemblance

between Nathan and Jasper,

nothing more, not intentionally spying on him or drawn in by his charm. She wondered if Nathan

would misunderstand her.

"Mr. Morrison?" Imogen pondered, slightly surprised as Jasper also bore the Morrison surname. "Could they be related?"

After dinner, Imogen shared with Jasper her location, with a text saying, "I've finished dinner."

"I'll come pick you up now. Wait for me." Came Jasper's reply.

"Okay," she replied, setting her phone down after sending the text.

In the living room, a maid set out

fruit and brought in Earl Grey tean et

Mila and Imogen chatted while enjoying the fruit, while Nathan went upstairs to freshen up.

Unable to resist, Mila asked, "Imogen, do you have any sisters? Or perhaps friends?"

"I'm the only child, but I do have friends," Imogen replied.

Mila smiled awkwardly and inquired, "Do you happen to know any nice ladies who might be a good match for my son? Someone like you will do."

Imogen thought for a moment

before saying, "Alright, I'll keep an eye out and ask my friends if they're open to blind dates. I could play matchmaker."

"Thank you, Imogen." Mila was pleased.

Just then, Jasper called. Imogen glanced at her phone and exchanged an awkward look with Mila.

Mila smiled and said, "It's okay, go ahead and answer it."

Suppressing a smile, Imogen answered the phone and brought it to her ear. She whispered, "What's wrong?"

Jasper's voice sounded alarmed. "Imogen, is your location correct?"

Imogen replied, "Yes, why?"

"Are you sure you're at Sudvilla right now?" he asked urgently.

Imogen covered the phone and asked Mila, "Professor Winkler, is this Sudvilla?"

Chapter 1053

Mila nodded. "Yes."

With Mila's confirmation, Imogen informed Jasper, "I'm at Sudvilla, at Professor Winkler's place."

Jasper asked, "Professor Winkler? Is it Mila Winkler?"

Surprised, Imogen questioned, "You know her?"

"Imogen, wait for me. I'm on my way," Jasper urgently instructed.

Bewildered by his sudden urgency, Imogen hung up the phone in confusion.

"Is that your husband?" Mila gently inquired.

"Yes." Imogen nodded.

"I heard you met through a blind date and had a whirlwind marriage?"

Imogen hummed a response and nodded again.

"How's your relationship?" Mila probed.

"We weren't close before. After the whirlwind marriage, we started getting to know each other and our feelings were gradually warming up. "But I don't wish to continue anymore. I want a divorce..." Imogen's voice trailed off, her emotions sinking.

Mila was taken aback by her revelation and asked empathetically, "Why? You've just gotten married. Why do you want a divorce already?" Imogen pressed her lips bitterly, weighing her thoughts.

Feeling Mila was a trustworthy confidante, she confessed, "My dad is disabled, and my mom is a housekeeper. We're not even middle-class. "He's from a prestigious background, with affluent parents in high positions. He's also a CEO of a corporation. We're just not a match."

Mila felt sorry for her plight. She understood the burden of social expectations and sympathized with Imogen's feelings of helplessness and self- doubt.

"Imogen, if your husband isn't bothered by these concerns, his parents' objections shouldn't matter much. After all, it's you two who have to walk this path together."

"I haven't even met his parents."

"Why not?" Mila was surprised.

Imogen smiled bitterly and shook her head, indicating her uncertainty. Then she continued, "Probably because of my background. He's hesitant to introduce me to his parents."

Mila nodded in understanding, reflecting."He loves you. He's probably afraid they would break you two apart if they knew."

"I don't know what he's thinking. Our backgrounds are so different. Marriages fueled only by passion don't last long.

"Eventually, we'll divorce. It's better to end it now while our feelings aren't deep, to avoid greater pain later," she concluded with a sigh.

Mila nodded in agreement with Imogen's sentiments, respecting her decision.

Then, with a mix of jest and

sincerity, Mila remarked, "Imogen we don't have social barriers or

class biases in our family. If you do decide to divorce, you might consider meeting my son."

Embarrassed by the premature matchmaking suggestion before finalizing her divorce, Imogen awkwardly smiled and replied, "No, Professor Winkler, that wouldn't be appropriate."

Mila persisted, "It's appropriate as long as you young people hit it off."

Outside, the rumble of a car engine and the subsequent ring of the doorbell interrupted their conversation.

A maid hurried to open the door, respectfully greeting, "Good evening, Mr. Jasper."

The hurried footsteps echoed.

Surprised, Mila stood up, asking, "What's going on? Why has my son suddenly arrived?"

Imogen turned curiously toward the door.

Jasper burst into the living room, breathless and visibly anxious. He glanced nervously between Mila and Imogen. Perplexed, Imogen wondered aloud, "Why did the maid at Professor Winkler's house address him as Mr. Jasper?" A brief silence filled the room.

Mila's puzzlement was palpable at Jasper's urgency.

Just then, Nathan finished freshening up and came downstairs in casual his home attire.

"Jasper's back?" Nathan broke the silence.

Jasper turned toward the stairs, and after composing himself, he greeted politely, "Mom, Dad." Imogen sat there frozen, utterly stunned.

Chapter 1054

Mila approached Jasper, her tone gentle yet tinged with puzzlement. "Didn't you say you were too busy to come back? It's so sudden. I thought you weren't coming back.

"Come over here for a moment. I want to introduce you to someone."

Jasper's emotions were tangled. He had never anticipated this scenario for their first meeting.

He had been waiting for Imogen to accept him and reciprocate his feelings before formally informing his parents and family. The current situation was complex.

Imogen herself was stunned. She had long known that Jasper's father was a general and his mother a renowned chemistry professor.

However, she hadn't expected Jasper to be Mila's son and the dignified man to be Nathan Morrison, the defense general of Norvania.

Imogen felt her palms growing clammy as she glanced shyly at Nathan and then at Mila.

Mila gently positioned Jasper in front of Imogen, her smile warm as she introduced, "Imogen, let me introduce you. This is my son, Jasper Morrison." Imogen struggled to find words, feeling disoriented and lost.

"Jasper, this is Imogen-"

"I know her," Jasper interjected.

Mila looked surprised. "You two know each other?"

Jasper met Imogen's evasive gaze, sensing her unease and confusion.

Nathan walked over to the couch, preparing to speak, when Jasper suddenly declared, "Mom, Dad, I've gotten married."

Nathan and Mila froze at his words. They exchanged shocked glances, their excitement evident yet tempered.

Mila couldn't contain her joy, her

hand covering her mouth as she stared wide-eyed at Jasper. After a moment to compose herself, she exclaimed, "Is this true? Are you serious? Who is she? When will you bring her home?"

Nathan chimed in, "Yeah. Although your marriage is yours to decide we're a family. Sooner or later, we'll need to meet her. Bring her over when you're ready. Let's all get acquainted."

Imogen trembled with nerves, caught completely off guard by this turn of events.

Just moments ago, she had confided in Mila. Never did she imagine the professor was her future mother-in-law, and that dignified man was her father-in-law.

She wished she could disappear into the ground right then. How could such a coincidental series of events unfold?

Just as Imogen picked up her bag anxiously to bid farewell and leave, Jasper suddenly approached her. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and drew her close into his embrace.

Imogen's face drained of color with fear, her body tensing as she stared straight ahead at Mila and Nathan. The shock was evident on Mila's and Nathan's faces as well.

With solemnity, Jasper said, "Meet my wife, Imogen Kingsley."

Mila gasped in disbelief, remaining silent for several moments. The atmosphere in the living room grew heavy with silence.

Nathan, accustomed to life's

surprises found this unexpected news delightful, believing in the inexplicable nature of fate. After a brief moment of astonishment, he smiled knowingly.

Mila covered her mouth, struggling to compose herself for quite some time.

Imogen, her nerves tingling, awkwardly bowed her head in greeting. "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were Jasper's parents. I just found out now. I....."

She was anxious about how Nathan and Mila would react next. Given her modest background, few elders would readily accept her into their family.

She also wondered whether Mila's earlier mention of introducing her to her son had been a jest or a sincere proposal.

Mila quickly waved her hand, responding, "There's no need to apologize. It's Jasper's fault.

"He didn't tell us about your marriage, and he hasn't brought you home all this while. It's all his fault."

Chapter 1055

Jasper quickly added, "Yes, it's my fault."

Mila took Imogen's hand, urging, "Let's sit and chat."

Imogen still felt awkward to address them as Mom and Dad. Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions.

Mila, transitioning from shock to joy and then to relief, struggled to calm her racing heart. All her previous worries had vanished.

Jasper wasn't gay, nor did he have any sexual dysfunction—he was a perfectly normal man with impeccable taste.

Whether it was Imogen's looks, values, personality, or morals, Mila was delighted with Jasper's choice.

However, one concern lingered: Imogen wanted a divorce.

Mila swallowed nervously, wiping a cold sweat from her worries for Jasper. Though he had married a wonderful woman, their marriage was unstable and could fall apart at any moment.

She understood Jasper's caution-he feared the fragility of their relationship and hadn't dared to bring Imogen home. He wanted to avoid worrying the family.

Once seated, Jasper held Imogen's hand and formally reiterated, "Dad, Mom, let me officially introduce my wife, Imogen Kingsley. She's 27, the same age as me.

"Imogen, this is my father, Nathan Morrison, and my mother, Mila Winkler."

Mila's smile grew even brighter, her joy impossible to hide. She softly said, "It's wonderful to meet you, Imogen."

Mila then nudged Nathan's leg, signaling him to speak up. Nathan had never been so humbled, having to greet a junior first. But Mila's word was law. Nathan, genuinely pleased with Imogen too, politely said, "Welcome to our family, Imogen."

Being greeted with such warmth and respect by two esteemed figures-her in-laws, Imogen felt deeply humbled. She respectfully responded in haste, "Thanks for having me here, Mom and Dad."

Imogen's words brought smiles to everyone's faces.

Jasper beamed with joy, the curve of his smile growing even wider.

Mila clasped her hands together in delight. "What an incredible coincidence!"

Imogen felt increasingly uneasy, her breathing becoming more erratic.

Sensing her discomfort, Jasper said, "Mom, Dad, I'll take Imogen home for now. We'll visit again soon."

Glancing at the time, Nathan mused, "It's still early. Why not stay a little longer?"

Noticing Imogen's tension and understanding the overwhelming impact of the situation, Mila knew the gathering couldn't be relaxed She gently held his hand, subtly signaling the oblivious Nathan. She then said to Jasper, "Alright, take Imogen home. Come over again when you have time."

Hands being held by Jasper, Imogen stood up with mixed emotions, timidly bidding farewell. She left Sudvilla in a daze and got into Jasper's car.

After seeing Jasper and Imogen off, Mila sighed deeply, linking her arm with Nathan's as they walked back into the living room.

Nathan, curious, asked, "You

seemed to like Imogen. You were so

worried about Jasper not having a

girlfriend before that you couldn't eat

or sleep well. Now that your wish has come true, why the sigh?"

Mila looked up at Nathan. "Do you know why Jasper didn't tell us about his marriage for so long?"

"Why?"

"Because Imogen wants a divorce."

Nathan stopped in his tracks, stunned. After a moment, he asked, "Is it because Jasper isn't good enough?"

Mila shook her head. "No, it's the opposite. Jasper is too good, too exceptional. Imogen feels they're from different worlds, different classes, and they're too far apart to be a good match."

Chapter 1056

Nathan inquired, "What's her family background?"

"Imogen's father is disabled, and her mother works as a cleaner. She graduated from technical school but never found a permanent job. After marrying Jasper, he secretly had her join Star Enterprise."

Surprised, Nathan blurted, "They're really from different worlds. How did Jasper meet someone from that social class?"

Mila shook her head, signaling her lack of knowledge, and sighed once more.

Nathan felt equally helpless. Pulling Mila close on the couch, he continued, "Then Jasper should put in more effort to boost her self-esteem and help her gain confidence. Let Imogen know that while society may have its divisions, our family doesn't judge her based on her background."

"Yeah, Jasper should help ease her burden of thoughts. She seems burdened by it," Mila nodded thoughtfully.

Nathan deeply empathized with Imogen's feelings. After all, with such a vast difference, Imogen must have worried that she and her parents would not fit in well with the Morrisons.

Suddenly recalling some other matter, Mila slapped Nathan's arm and exclaimed, "Oh no!"

With a wince, Nathan inquired, "What's so urgent that you had to hit me?"

Realizing her abruptness, Mila hurriedly patted his arm. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you."

"What's wrong?" Unable to get angry at Mila, he asked in concern.

Mila nervously swallowed. "Jasper's been in the gossip lately."

"With who?"

"The granddaughter of Oakley Gibson. She's quite famous on the inte."

Nathan frowned involuntarily. "Oakley's granddaughter?"

Mila nodded with a troubled expression.

Nathan furrowed his eyebrows, asking, "How did Jasper get involved with her?"

Mila leaned against Nathan, clearly worried. "I had no idea. This is bad. How can Imogen possibly compete with someone from the Gibsons?" "Let Jasper handle it himself."

"Okay."

The city streets shimmered with neon lights, alive with bustling activity.

Jasper stole occasional glances at Imogen beside him as he drove.

Leaning against the window, Imogen was lost in the night scenery, her thoughts in disarray.

"Imogen, I didn't expect you to know my parent." Jasper broke the silence.

Imogen remained silent, staring into the night without a word.

"They really like you," he added.

She didn't know how to respond.

"Should I say thank you? Or should I say I like them too?" she wondered aloud.

As she hesitated over how to address the topic of family, Jasper spoke again, "Let's arrange a time for our parents to meet and dine together." Nervously, Imogen replied, "No, my parents aren't aware of your background yet."

"It's only a matter of time before they find out. Let's take this opportunity to tell them," Jasper insisted.

Imogen lowered her head, her

fingers nervously entwined. She hesitated, then spoke, "Jasper, you, me, and our families, we're just too different. We-"

Cutting her off abruptly, Jasper asserted, Imogen, our backgrounds, families, wealth, and social status; none of these are issues. Whether our marriage lasts is entirely up to yout now."

"If that's the case, what about the rumors with the inte celebrity?" she thought. Imogen wanted to inquire but struggled to find the courage.

She couldn't shake the feeling that

marrying someone as remarkable as

Jasper was an honor for her whole family, leaving her with little to complain about.

She pondered whether this behavior was common among the wealthy: maintaining a marriage with a remarkable wife while pursuing other women.

Chapter 1057

Imogen lapsed into a brief silence before she asked, "Do you really believe family background isn't important for marriage?"

Jasper affirmed confidently, "Yes."

"You truly live a different world," commented Imogen with a helpless smile.

"It's you who cares too much about it."

"I can't help it."

"Imogen, I don't want to argue. Can we avoid talking about families?"

Imogen pursed her lips and nodded reluctantly, her emotions unsettled. After a moment of silence, she continued, "If not families, then let's discuss our social circles."

Jasper remained quiet, grasping her intentions but hesitant to proceed. He knew such discussions often led to discord.

Imogen pressed on, "I could never fit into your social circle. I know nothing about fashion, economics, or your lifestyle. The world your friends perceive is different from mine. I've never left Phoenicia all my life, while you've explored the world and accumulated so much knowledge." Imogen lowered her head, her voice subdued as she said, "My circle of friends would be even more unfamiliar to you. We might watch a late-night movie to save a few bucks, enjoy greasy street food by the roadside, and laugh loudly and freely.

"While you debate the finest vintage wines, I'm content with a cheap soda."

After her words, the atmosphere in the car grew heavy, the air stifling, lingering until they reached home.

Jasper turned off the engine and unbuckled his seatbelt. He didn't step out but instead quietly gazed ahead.

Imogen followed suit, unbuckling her

seatbelt. Just as she was about to

exit, Jasper suddenly spoke, his voice was gentle, tinged with sadness, "I recognized you from the moment I first saw you. Before you even introduced yourself, I knew you were Imogen Kingsley."

Imogen's hand hovered over the door handle, frozen in place as she kept her back turned to Jasper.

Jasper spoke gently, "It's not because you look the same as you did in middle school. Honestly, you've changed a lot. You're completely different from the youthful and naïve you back then.

"The reason I could recognize you is

because all these years, I've never forgotten you. I've had a hidden

account furking on many of you

socialmedia. Every post, every selfie of yours, I've watched them over and over again."

He continued, "My mom is anxious about my marriage, not because I'm getting older, but because my family thinks there's something wrong with my mind and body.

"But they don't know that since middle school, I've had a secret crush on someone. For over a decade, I haven't been able to forget her, and no one else has caught my eye.

"I've never been an impulsive person.

Keeping my identity hidden and marrying you suddenly-that's the most impulsive thing I've ever done in my life, but also something I would never regret.

"There are some things we can't change our families, our upbringing, even our social circles.

"If, because of these reasons, you want to divorce me, I won't agree."

Jasper's voice grew increasingly sorrowful, trembling slightly. "Unless... unless you don't have feelings for me at all. Unless being with me is painful for you, I..."

Imogen slowly clenched her fist, leaning into her seat, her head bowed in silence.

Jasper's voice cracked hoarsely, filled with emotion. "I-I don't want to see you suffer. If you insist on leaving, then I'll agree to divorce."

Listening to his heartfelt confession, Imogen felt waves of pain tugging at her heart. She was moved, yet a profound sadness crept in, mingling with both happiness and uncertainty.

Chapter 1058

Chapter 1058

Being such an ordinary woman, Imogen wondered by what virtue and grace could she have made such an outstanding man as Jasper, to secretly love her for over a decade, and still hold her in such a fond memory.

Imogen took a deep breath, determination settling within her as she turned to Jasper. She declared earnestly, "Jasper, let's give this another try."

Jasper gazed at Imogen in astonishment, his eyes shimmering with excitement.

When their eyes met, he momentarily lost control and drew her into an embrace. Imogen stiffened, her body tense in his arms.

Jasper held her tightly, whispering eagerly in her ear with a trembling voice, "I-Imogen, thank you. I will do everything to make you happy."

Imogen gently wrapped her arms around Jasper's waist. Resting her head on his shoulder, she murmured, "I should be the one making the effort. I'll try my best to improve myself, to be someone more worthy of you."

Jasper smiled warmly. "Don't be silly. You don't need to change a thing, just be yourself."

They embraced in the car for what felt like an eternity.

After stepping out of the car, Jasper, for the first time, openly held Imogen's hand and walked into the house together.

This simple act had been his dream for over a decade. Leading the woman he loved into their home made him feel like his long-held dream had finally come true, yet he couldn't afford to relax even a bit. After all, Imogen had only agreed to give their relationship another chance, temporarily setting aside thoughts of divorce without firmly committing to a future together.

They both retired to their respective rooms.

Imogen completed her evening routine and prepared for bed. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. She knew it was Jasper and instantly grew nervous. It was her time of the month, making intimacy impossible.

"Jasper, I'm going to bed. Can we discuss this tomorrow?" Imogen called out.

Jasper opened the door directly. Imogen frowned and sat on the bed, staring at him with an annoyed expression.

Jasper approached and hastily slid into bed, drawing the covers over himself before turning to Imogen. "Let's sleep together from now on. Sleeping separately isn't good for our relationship," he proposed. Imogen paused briefly, then nodded in agreement.

With her affirmation, Jasper embraced Imogen's waist tenderly, murmuring, "Come lie down. I want to hold you while we sleep."

Feeling a bit uneasy, Imogen whispered, "I'm not convenient tonight. Please... not that..."

Jasper gazed at Imogen's flushed cheeks with understanding and affection. "Okay, I got it," he reassured her gently.

With that, Imogen obediently lay down beside him.

Jasper pulled the blanket over her. He enveloped Imogen in his embrace, savoring the lingering scent of her bath. Imogen felt a bit tense initially.

As time passed, Jasper remained calm and merely held her close as they drifted into sleep.

In the darkness, Jasper suddenly reached for his phone. He opened the notes app and quietly typed a few words.

Imogen glanced over and clearly saw "Honey's period" written.

Jasper set down his phone and drew her nearer once more.

In the dimly lit room, he held her close, her form soft against his Softly, he asked, "Do you usually feel sable at this time?"

Imogen shook her head. "No, I've never had menstrual cramps."

Genuinely pleased by her answer, he inquired again, "And how's your mood?"

"Hormones don't usually affect me much. At least, I've never been irritable during my period."

Nuzzling into her neck, Jasper murmured, "You're truly an angel."

"Have you been watching too many movies? Thinking all women painful periods and become irritable?" Imogen teased.

Jasper responded, "I get it now, everyone's different."

Imogen hummed in response.

"Imogen, shall we visit your parents tomorrow and discuss our matters?"

Chapter 1059

Chapter 1059

Jasper's words unsettled Imogen.

After a brief hesitation, Imogen asked, "Aren't you concerned they might accuse you of deceiving them? And what about Aunt Eloise? She's fond of Asher and has always wanted me to marry him." Jasper responded calmly, "We'll have to face it eventually."

"Okay," Imogen agreed.

That night, Jasper was too excited to sleep. He kept talking, sharing words that seemed endless.

It wasn't until after Imogen fell asleep that he finally drifted off himself.

The next morning, Imogen woke up first, still cradled in Jasper's embrace.

Throughout the night, Jasper had held her tightly.

Imogen, mindful of potential side leaks, didn't dare move much, and now she felt her waist stiffening.

She shifted her body slowly.

At that moment, the phone rang twice. Located right by the pillow, Imogen found the sound somewhat jarring, hence she reached over to fetch it.

The phone rang twice more.

Intrigued, Imogen glanced at the illuminated screen.

There was a message displayed. Even though it flashed briefly and disappeared, she managed to catch those few words.

It was a message from Yulia Gibson. "I feel so sad. Can you come over and keep me company?"

Imogen's heart sank, a heavy ache as if falling into an abyss of uncertainty. She placed the phone on the bedside table, her morning mood dampened by the message. Slipping on her slippers, Imogen wearily walked into the bathroom.

Never before had her mood been disrupted by her menstrual cycle, but this time, her emotions caused a ripple of discomfort during her period.

Seated on the toilet, thoughts of the woman's message to Jasper intensified her discomfort, a faint ache echoing in her lower abdomen.

After freshening up and changing her clothes in the bathroom, Imogen exited and approached the vanity.

Just then, Jasper, still half-asleep, rose from bed. With a lazy, relaxed demeanor, he pulled Imogen into an embrace.

Imogen managed a strained smile. "Did I wake you?"

Jasper's spirits lifted. Holding Imogen close, he gently stroked her long hair, as if comforting a well-behaved kitten. He murmured, "No, just couldn't sense your warmth, so I woke up."

"Do you want to sleep a little longer?"

"I don't want to sleep anymore if you're not with me," he answered.

Imogen then inquired, "What time are we heading to my parents' house today?"

"After breakfast."

Pushing lightly on his chest, she instructed, "Go wash up."

Jasper lowered his head, bringing his face close to Imogen's. "Give me a kiss."

Imogen was taken aback by his sudden request.

Jasper's voice turned tender and playful as he held her waist, his head still lowered. "I want you to initiate a kiss, please..."

Was this what he meant by initiating a kiss? Imogen smiled helplessly. It was clear he was the one who wanted this.

Imogen tiptoed and lightly kissed his slightly stubbled jaw.

Jasper closed his eyes contentedly, pulling her into a tight embrace once more. "Imogen, you're so sweet!"

Yet Imogen couldn't shake off the unease stirred by the message from Yulia. Happiness eluded her.

She nudged Jasper toward the bathroom. "Go wash up quickly. Let's finish breakfast and head home early."

Jasper's smile of happiness grew brighter as he muttered, "Alright, I'll do as you say."

As Imogen pushed him into the

bathroom, her smile faded instantly. She turned back to glance at Jasper's phone lying on the bedside table.

The Wrong Woman

Chapter 1060

Chapter 1060

Chapter 1060

Imogen settled into Jasper's car, preparing to visit her parents. Upon calling Carol, she realized that Carol and Gregory had returned to their hometown for a visit.

Imogen considered postponing the visit, but Jasper insisted on meeting the Kingsleys today. Thus, they altered their route and set off toward her hometown.

Imogen's hometown was a remote and impoverished village, dotted with run-down houses mostly inhabited by elderly residents, women, and children left behind. The roads were muddy and difficult to navigate, adding to the feeling of a laborious journey despite the short distance.

As they drove into the village, their arrival seemed to stir up curiosity among the villagers.

Local gossiping women emerged to witness the commotion, while children playfully chased after the car. Beneath a large tree, elderly villagers sat, pointing and discussing the arrival of the visitors.

Their car halted in front of a dilapidated house, and Imogen felt a pang of unease. She didn't want Jasper to see the stark reality of her family's original home, fearing his potential judgment.

Stepping out of the car, Jasper surveyed the house. He was momentarily taken aback but quickly adjusted to the authentic historical ambiance of the place.

Upon hearing the car engine, Carol hurriedly stepped out, her smile warm and welcoming. "Oh, you're here already? There's no need to come all this way for a visit. We'll be back in Phoenicia in a couple of days. You can visit us there, it's the same."

"Mom," Jasper greeted politely, stepping out of the car with gifts in hand. "I wanted to meet Grandma." "That's thoughtful of you. Come on in. Are you tired from the drive? I'll prepare some food for you." Inside the house, Jasper met Imogen's grandmother, Pippa Glaston-a benevolent old lady in her 80s.

In less than half an hour, the entire village learned that Imogen had returned with her husband, Jasper, for a visit.

Jasper was tall and handsome, driving a luxury car. The gifts he brought seemed valuable, clearly marking him as affluent.

The already narrow living room was crowded with a makeshift square table laden with snacks.

A circle of people had gathered around it-Pippa, Gregory, Carol, Imogen's aunts and uncles, together with a few curious children seeking snacks and excitement.

They nibbled on snacks, casting curious gazes at Jasper as though he were a rare specimen. Their gaze sent chills down Jasper's spine. Imogen and Jasper sat there, tense and uneasy.

Renowned for his fearless dominance in the business world, Jasper now found himself sweating under their scrutiny. Imogen, too, felt nervous, taking occasional sips from her glass.

The relatives, captivated by Jasper's handsome appearance, looked on with both admiration and jealousy in their eyes.

"Imogen, what does your husband do for a living?" asked one of them.

"Where does he work? How much does he earn each month?"

Another chimed in, "Did you buy a house in Phoenicia?"

"How old is he? Are his parents still alive?"

"How did you two meet? Are you married? Will there be a wedding banquet?"

"What did you receive as the wedding gift?"

Both Imogen and Jasper were taken aback by the barrage of questions. They exchanged uncertain glances, unsure how to respond.

Originally, they had planned to confess their deception to Carol and Gregory, hoping for forgiveness and understanding. However, the timing wasn't right to broach the subject. They worried that involving the older women might only complicate things further.

Seeing Jasper and Imogen both silent and sensing the awkward atmosphere, Carol smiled and intervened to answer on Jasper's behalf. She carefully explained using Asher's information.

Later that evening, following local customs in the village, Jasper couldn't sleep with Imogen at her parents' home. Due to limited space, Jasper ended up sleeping with Gregory, while Imogen slept in a separate room with Carol.