Ch. 711..720

Chapter 711

Daniel wore a somber expression as he spoke, "Mrs. Lawson, I don't resent you. I understand your sentiments entirely. Were it my daughter, I would hesitate to see her with an anti-drug officer too." Shelly turned to look at Daniel, sensing in him a man of integrity. If not for his profession, marrying Sienna to him would be like winning the lottery.

"About Felix's medical bills-"

Shelly's words were cut short by Daniel's reassurance. "Mrs. Lawson, it's a small matter. There's no rush for repayment.

"Once Felix wakes up and recovers, he can take his time to repay me when he's financially stable. There's no deadline."

Shelly was moved beyond words. Her eyes brimmed with tears as she clasped his hand gratefully. "Thank you, and thank you on behalf of Felix," she choked out.

Daniel offered a gentle pat on her shoulder, feeling a pang of sadness. To him, matters that money could resolve were insignificant. As long as he could help Sienna, he would do so without hesitation or regret.

After a brief pause, Shelly suggested, "Captain Morrison, if you don't mind, you could become like a brother to Sienna..."

Daniel's expression darkened instantly, cutting her off. "Mrs. Lawson, that's unnecessary. I'm fine with the breakup, but becoming her brother? That's absurd."

Shelly felt a twinge of embarrassment and forced a smile. She felt guilty but had no clue how to make it up to Daniel.

Daniel felt mentally drained. Shelly knew exactly how to twist the knife.

Being a brother to Sienna meant they could still have a connection, but without romance, without crossing boundaries, and without sharing their lives together. He'd even have to witness Sienna's marriage and address her future husband as his brother-in-law. Even if it cost him his life, he couldn't do it.

Standing up, Daniel politely excused himself. "Mr. Lawson, I have some work to attend to. Feel free to call if you need anything."

Shelly replied, "Of course, go ahead."

With a nod of farewell, Daniel walked away.

As Shelly watched him leave, she sighed deeply. If only Daniel would quit his job as an anti-drug officer, that would solve everything. She wondered if he'd be willing tomake that sacrifice for Sienna.

Leaning back in her chair, Shelly sighed once more.

When Sienna learned that Felix's medical bills were taken care of, her first thought was of Daniel. Though Shelly didn't explicitly say it, Sienna knew it was Daniel's doing. When Shelly suggested that Daniel resign so they could be together, Sienna felt a mix of excitement and anger.

Disregarding their mother-daughter relationship, she countered, "Mom, you can't make such unreasonable demands of Daniel. Don't force him to make a decision. Do you realize how despicable your actions are?"

Shelly still held onto hope and said, "Captain Morrison is truly a good person. I just—"

Sienna couldn't contain her emotions. "Of course, he's a good person, but look at me. I come from a modest background, average education, job, and abilities.

"There are plenty of women like me.

It's already lucky that Daniel chose me. Do you think I'm so

extraordinary? Do you still want him

to sacrifice his career? Isn't that

selfish?"

Shelly acknowledged that Sienna's words held some truth. She couldn't bring herself to make such selfish demands of Daniel, so she abandoned the idea.

As Felix's health improved, he was moved out of the ICU and into a regular ward.

Daniel returned to the hospital with Finley once again.

Chapter 712

Chapter 712

During the visit, Felix regained his ability to speak, and his mind was conscious.

Daniel and Finley introduced themselves and inquired about Felix's well-being. Upon his confirmation, they proceeded to record his statement.

Having heard of Daniel before and now realizing he was Sienna's ex-boyfriend, Felix couldn't help but hold him in high regard.

Recalling the ordeal, Felix said, "Since Sienna took Clement to court, I don't have to settle my debts until the legal matter is settled.

"But his associates were relentless. That day, they ambushed me in the mountains and beat me up brutally.

"After breaking free, I ran until I encountered an area enclosed by an electric fence. With no other option, I climbed a nearby tall tree and leaped over the barrier, landing in another tree within.

"Once inside, I searched for an exit but couldn't find one. Instead, I was chased by a few pit bulls. Eventually, I ended up in several expansive film studios devoid of sets but filled with plants resembling opium poppies. I was so shocked that I immediately hid myself to avoid detection.

"Unfortunately, fate led me to a warehouse where people were refining drugs. They discovered me and beat me mercilessly. They even stabbed me in the heart before throwing me down the mountains." Finishing his account, Felix gingerly touched the wound on his heart. The doctor had mentioned his heart's unusual position, which had saved him from a worse fate.

Daniel and Finley exchanged a solemn glance, recognizing the gravity of the situation.

The group had secured the mountain and established a film base, meeting all safety requirements, including fire inspections and police patrols. The audacity of cultivating drugs inside hinted at a powerful support. Moreover, this person must be holding a high position.

Following his statement, Felix anxiously asked, "Captain Morrison, if they realize I'm alive, will they send someone after me?"

"It's possible," Daniel replied gently. "Don't worry, I'll get someone to protect you around the clock."

"Thank you, Captain Morrison."

Daniel and Finley packed up their things and prepared to depart. As they rose, the ward door swung open, revealing Sienna carrying a lunch box. Her steps faltered Dupon seeing Daniel.

Their eyes met, conveying a shared sense of regret and longing.

"Sienna, you're here?" Felix's voice came.

Sienna immediately averted her gaze. She hid the turmoil in her heart and calmly walked over, setting the lunch box on the table. "Are you feeling better?"

Felix nodded, casting surprised glances between Sienna and Daniel. He realized they had become strangers who didn't even exchange greetings anymore. "Rest well. We'll take our leave," Finley said.

"Okay, take care," Felix replied.

As Finley started to leave, he noticed Daniel standing still, his gaze fixated on Sienna.

Unaware of Daniel's gaze, Sienna focused on serving Felix without a second glance.

"Captain Morrison," Finley ventured cautiously, sensing the tension. "Perhaps I should go back first. You can stay-"

Daniel interjected firmly, "No need." With those words, he left briskly.

Sienna never lifted her head, and her hand froze slightly as she served Felix food. Her chest constricted with an unbearable weight,

lov

suffocating her.

Setting down the lunch box, she slumped into the chair with teary eyes and released a heavy sigh.

Curious, Felix questioned, "Sienna, I can tell Captain Morrison likes you. Is it really over between you two?"

Chapter 713

Chapter 713

Sienna bit her lower lip and voiced her distress, "Can you persuade Mom to stop using her life as leverage against me?"

"I wish I could, but Mom is unwavering. Every time she threatens to end her life, she means it," Felix lamented, shaking his head with resignation.

Sienna fell into silence. She couldn't selfishly pursue her desires at the expense of Shelly's life for the sake of love.

She held onto the belief in time's healing power, knowing she would eventually release Daniel, let go of their relationship, and rebuild her life. Love hadn't blinded her.

Days later, Felix was discharged, and life resumed its rhythm. Sienna delved into writing, assisting Shelly at the shop, dabbling in cooking now and then, and unwinding with her closest friend. One day, Jane reached out and invited Sienna to a high school reunion.

Sienna, often away for work, rarely attended such gatherings. Being back in her hometown this year, she thought it would be nice to catch up with her long-lost classmates.

In a private room of a grand hotel, a lively group of men and women of similar ages filled a large round table. Some were married with children, others were newlyweds, and some were still single. Sienna and Jane, both single, caught the attention of their male peers, especially considering their outstanding looks and figures.

Amid laughter and banter, an unexpected revelation broke the air. "Back in the day, Howard harbored a crush on Sienna for years. Now that he's divorced, could it be because of his lingering feelings for her?" Caught mid-bite, Sienna glanced up in shock at the man who spoke.

The former class monitor, now a successful corporate manager, raised his glass and addressed Sienna directly, "Sienna, rumor has it you're still single. Does Howard stand a chance?" Sienna's nerves fluttered as she stole a glance at Howard Collins. Howard's gaze, gentle yet tinged with bashfulness, met hers.

Recently divorced, childless, with a stable career in the field of information technology, Howard exuded a quiet charm that matched his handsome appearance. Both of them hailed from the same town, with families acquainted and backgrounds intertwined.

Sienna, feeling the weight of the attention, offered a strained smile. "Let's not tease."

"Howard, do you think this is a joke?" The former monitor chuckled heartily.

Howard, with a warm smile, boldly confessed, "No. I've admired Siennal since middle school. I never found the courage to confess until after college, but by then, we'd gone our separate ways."

Excitement rippled through the room.

"Isn't the chance here?" The male classmates rallied around Howard, refilling his glass and urging him toward Sienna.

The female classmates, too, joined the matchmaking efforts to pair Sienna and Howard together.

Feeling embarrassed and awkward, Sienna reluctantly clinked glasses with Howard and added his contact. They were even seated together.

Throughout the rest of the reunion, their classmates continued their matchmaking endeavors.

As they left the hotel, everyone hailed cabs. They couldn't drive because they had been drinking.

Jane was whisked away by someone else, leaving Sienna and Howard to share a ride home, given they were from the same town.

Alone in the car, Sienna grappled

with the awkwardness, unsure

è it. Howard, reserved bet

nature, remained silent during the

ride.

Under the dim glow of streetlights, they walked side by side upon reaching town.

"Sienna, would you like to go see a movie together tomorrow? There's a really good one showing." Howard gathered his courage. With the thoughts of pursuing Sienna he

suggested a movie date.

Sienna smiled faintly, responding without hesitation, "Howard, I'm sorry, but my heart belongs to someone else."

Taken aback, Howard remarked, "Jane mentioned you were single."

Chapter 714

Chapter 714

"I'm single, but my heart already belongs to someone else. I'm sorry," Sienna confessed.

Howard smiled ruefully in response. "I understand what you mean. If you and the man you love don't work out, why not give me a shot? Maybe we'd be a better match?" Pausing, Sienna turned to face him.

Howard halted too, his eyes softening as he spoke sincerely, "Sienna, life is full of regrets. I've admired you for so long, and not telling you how I felt during graduation is my biggest regret. Now that I have the opportunity, I don't want to let it slip."

Sienna admired bravery in others. "Howard, I-".

Before she could finish her words, a figure approached them hastily.

She didn't have time to react when a strong arm encircled Sienna, pulling her into a warm, sturdy chest.

She looked up in surprise, meeting Daniel's resolute and handsome face.

Seeing Sienna embraced by a stranger, Howard's anxiety spiked. "Who are you? What do you want?"

Considering Daniel's imposing presence, Howard refrained from acting recklessly. "Let go of Sienna," he demanded firmly.

Daniel's gaze turned icy, a flicker of anger in his eyes. "I'm sorry, but I need to talk to my girlfriend. Please excuse us."

Girlfriend?

Sienna was dumbfounded, and Howard was equally bewildered.

As Daniel led Sienna away, Howard hurried to catch up, blocking their path. "Sienna, I thought you were single?"

Sienna nodded, then shook her head, blurting out in confusion, "I am single, but he's my ex-boyfriend."

Daniel's expression darkened even further upon hearing this.

"It's alright, you should go back. I can handle this," Sienna said with a strained smile, gesturing for Howard to leave. "Goodbye."

With a heavy heart, Howard realized he had no grounds to compete for Sienna's affection. Reluctantly, he watched as Daniel led her away.

Daniel guided Sienna into the car, ensuring her seatbelt was fastened before setting off. The vehicle glided along the wide road.

Feeling suffocated in the tense

atmosphere, Sienna opened the window, silently gazing at the passing scenery. The cool breeze filled her lungs, yet her chest felt constricted.

Despite the presence of the man she loved, he was not hers to claim. The pain of unrequited love gnawed at her heart.

"Who is he?" Daniel's voice cut through the silence, cold and stern.

Sienna sensed his anger, her response tinged with resentment. "He's my high school classmate, Howard Collins."

"What does he do?" he asked.

"IT, I guess."

"Is he married?"

"He's divorced."

"Is he trying to pursue you?"

"It seems that way."

"Have you agreed?"

"No."

"When do you plan to agree?"

Sienna took a deep breath,

suppressing her rising anger.

, don't you think you're el

Dating me like a suspect?"

"Answer me," Daniel demanded, his anger palpable.

Feeling more distressed, Sienna choked back her grievances. "We've already broken up. Please, stop doing this."

Suddenly, the car came to a stop.

Glancing around, Sienna realized they had arrived at Daniel's place.

With a cold expression, Daniel stepped out of the car, circling to Sienna's side. He opened the door, unfastened her seatbelt, and pulled her out of the car.

Feeling flustered and confused, Sienna demanded, "Daniel, it's late. Why did you bring me to your place?"

Chapter 715

Chapter 715

Sienna found herself pulled forcefully into Daniel's home. With the click of the door, panic surged within her.

Uncertain of what an enraged man might do, she struggled against his grip, desperate to break free. Yet, as a delicate woman, she couldn't match Daniel's strength. He dragged her into the living room, depositing her onto the couch.

Tension gripped her as she cast anxious glances at Daniel, fearing he might rush over in a fit of rage. But instead of erupting, Daniel settled beside her. His demeanor was subdued as he bowed his head, hands cradling his forehead in evident distress.

Silence enveloped them in the bright living room, broken only by the soft rhythm of their breaths.

Outside the window, darkness cloaked the world. The atmosphere inside grew heavy as they sat in quiet contemplation.

Sienna thought that perhaps Daniel was just angry and wanted a reason to spend some time alone with her. He wasn't directing his frustrations at her.

"Daniel, didn't we agree not to get involved with each other anymore?" Sienna's voice, timid yet resolute, pierced the silence.

Daniel sighed, his face covered by his hands. A palpable sense of sorrow emanated from him, reflecting his inner turmoil.

Leaning back against the couch, Daniel turned to Sienna, his eyes betraying a melancholic undertone. "Sienna, I promised to break up with you, but I've never given up. I've been trying, trying to win your heart and earn your family's approval."

Sienna's head hung low, her words laden with sorrow. "That's no longer necessary."

Daniel's tone turned serious. "There's been no conflict, no arguments, and no third parties between us. So why the sudden breakup? Is it because of your mother?"

Silence hung heavy as Sienna's fingers intertwined, nails biting into her skin.

"Answer me, Sienna." Daniel reached out his hand to hold hers, yet he stopped short when he drew closer. He knew he no longer had that right.

Though he longed to see her every day, to hold her, and to kiss her, Daniel couldn't justify his desires. He could only stand in a corner, silently watching her from afar.

Their breakup felt like a dull blade. Although it didn't deliver a fatal blow, it scraped at his heart each day, inflicting pain and torment.

"I can tell Mrs. Lawson likes me. Is it my career that she dislikes?" Daniel asked, seeking clarity.

Sienna's discomfort grew as she lowered her head even more.

"I could change jobs..."

As Daniel's words fell, Sienna grew panicky. She lifted her head, and her tear-filled eyes met his.

"Don't." Sienna's plea was urgent as she feared Daniel's irrational actions. "Don't quit your job. It's not because of my mother or your career. It's just that don't have feelings foryou. I don't love you. Please, don't resign."

Daniel froze, his heart clenched as he looked into Sienna's teary eyes. They were so fervent, yet she spoke such hurtful words.

He wouldn't abandon his career, but

he could step back from the frontline and take on a higher position, reducing the risk of the job. If it weren't for Sienna, he would probably be serving as the police chief in Phoenicia by now.

Daniel asked sternly, word by word, "Tell me the truth."

Sienna dared not meet his gaze. Her head bowed in sorrow as tears streamed down her cheeks. "I am telling the truth."

She couldn't bear the thought of Daniel sacrificing for her as she didn't believe she was worth it.

Daniel had faced death before in the

line of duty. He even endured the most painful tortures and barely survived. Even so, he returned to his job without hesitation after recovery.

Wealth wasn't of his concern. Yet, his dedication to duty was unwavering, even at the cost of his life. It signified his passion for his career.

Chapter 716

Chapter 716

Thus, this job meant the world to Daniel. It was his mission, his pride, his duty-everything.

Sienna loved Daniel and held his work and life in high regard.

Daniel grabbed her arm and pulled her close. "Am I not good enough compared to your classmate who's weak and divorced?"

Sienna stumbled, finding herself in his embrace. Uncertainty and anxiety filled her gaze as she looked up at him. The pain in her arm brought tears to her eyes.

Her chin trembled as she struggled to hold her tears back. She felt utterly lost as she stared at him.

Daniel's eyes filled with tears when he saw Sienna's eyes welling up. His voice, full of sadness, shook a little as he spoke, "Sienna, I wish I could go back to when I was blind and crippled.

"Even if you were only looking after me for money, I felt genuinely happy and at peace back then."

Tears trickled down Sienna's face as she thought back to those days. She didn't want to go back to the past.

Daniel's suffering was too hard to bear. She hoped Daniel would always stay healthy like he was now.

"Back in those days, you did as you pleased when I couldn't see a thing." Daniel reminisced with tears in his eyes, though a smile spread across his face.

"You bathed and fed me. We even slept in the same bed. The more I pushed back, the more you insisted on ignoring my protests.

"Even though you're Wanda's friend, my mom could easily dismiss you with just a word from me," Daniel said bitterly.

"But I can't imagine life without you. You're like a whirlwind in my heart, shaking up all the stillness and leaving me unsettled every day. My heart is in constant chaos. And then, one day, you were gone."

Tears streamed down Daniel's cheeks as he continued through sobs, "It was like I was back in those darkest times. My life felt drained of its light, color, and essence.

"Sienna, if you need money, I'll provide it. If it's love you're longing for, you'll have all of mine. If security is what you're after, I'll leave my frontline role and take a desk job."

Daniel's eyes blazed with desperation as he begged, his voice faltering. "Please, don't go, all right?"

Sienna couldn't stop her tears from flowing. She felt touched and pained. She couldn't shake the feeling that she wasn't worthy of Daniel.

"Daniel, I-"

Sienna began, but Daniel dreaded

the possibility that she might say, "I don't love you." His heart pounded, a torrent of emotions swirling within him. Unable to restrain himself, he kissed her fervently.

Sienna was surprised by the sudden kiss. Daniel's kiss was fierce and intense as he pushed her down onto the couch.

She found his scent, kiss, and the fluttering of her heart all too familiar. Every part of her being seemed to thrum with energy.

Yet, amidst the whirlwind of nerves and excitement, a voice of reason whispered for her to pull back. They had already broken up, and continuing like this felt wrong. Sienna couldn't utter a single word under his kisses. All she could manage was shy, soft moans. The more she tried to pull away, the more intense his kiss became.

She pounded on his strong chest, but his strength made her efforts pointless. Trying to push and shove against Daniel felt like a waste of energy. It was like attempting to

move an immovable object.

Her soft form, alluring scent, and tempting lips seemed to have a hold over Daniel as if she were a siren.

The time they spent apart had left him yearning for her intensely. He found himself unable to resist the urge to push her down onto the couch and kiss her passionately.

Daniel let his instincts take over as he gently trailed his hands along Sienna's well-defined curves. He pressed his body against hers.

Sienna's eyes shot open, tears

blurring her vision as she stared in

shock at Daniel's face hovering above hers. Her body responded instinctively to Daniel's touch, and a strange desire surged through her.

She could feel his intense physical reaction against her abdomen.

Overwhelmed by fear, Sienna broke into tears. Her only thought was to escape as she struggled against him.

Chapter 717

Chapter 717

Daniel pressed Sienna down beneath him. Her struggles only made things harder for him. Gradually, he pulled away from her lips and planted kisses along her fair neck.

She gasped for air and whimpered softly. Terrified and shaking, she closed her eyes and pleaded tearfully, "Daniel, please stop."

"Sienna, I love you," Daniel whispered as he kissed her ear. His voice was as deep and alluring as aged wine.

Sienna felt as if electric currents surged through her entire body wherever his lips and hands had touched. It left her feeling numb and weak.

She was trembling with fear, yet deep down, she couldn't deny a sense of longing. Eventually, she stopped struggling and leaned her body toward him.

Before falling in love, Sienna had firmly believed in waiting until marriage for sex. However, overwhelmed by her deep love for him, her physical desires overtook her sense of reason. Sienna eased her tense body. She bit her lip to stifle any moans of pleasure caused by the strange feelings sweeping through her body.

Just as she was about to succumb to the desire Daniel had sparked in her, he suddenly stopped.

Daniel leaned his head against Sienna's shoulder while gasping for air. Slowly, his hands withdrew beneath her clothes and smoothed out her disheveled attire.

"I'm sorry, Sienna," Daniel whispered, his voice filled with anguish as he battled his desires. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry..."

He hovered on the brink of losing control. When his rationality returned, he wished to knock some sense into himself.

What was he up to? Was this behavior acceptable? How had he almost lost control of himself like this?

"I'm such a damned jerk... I'm sorry." Daniel's voice shook as he rose to his feet. Breathing heavily, he rushed to the bathroom and slammed the door shut.

Sienna's chest rose and fell, her breathing erratic as she blinked at the ceiling. Remaining still, she regained her emotional balance and control over her desires.

She had just discovered the intensity of being kissed and touched by the man she loved. She had never felt anything like it before. She felt as if she had stumbled upon a whole new world.

Strong desires surged within her, though she felt bashful about acknowledging them. Still, she couldn't deny how captivating it all was.

After some time, Sienna regained her composure. She rose from the couch, ran her fingers through her long hair, and headed toward the bathroom.

As she stood outside the door, the sound of the shower from inside weighed heavily on her.

She lifted her hand to knock but hesitated. She couldn't summon the courage to do so. Her hand lingered in front of the door before she finally lowered it.

Daniel's heartfelt apologies

moments ago filled Sienna with

sorrow She wanted to reassure him

that he didn't need to carry such

heavy burdens, that her fear wasn't a

rejection of him.

Sienna lingered by the door, uncertain how to face Daniel when he emerged. The tension in the air felt awkward and loaded, leaving little room for further conversation.

Eventually she quietly slipped away.

After leaving the gate, she flagged down a cab. Once she was inside, she sent a message to Daniel. ""Let's take a break and calm down I'm on my way back."

Half an hour later, Sienna returned home, feeling exhausted. As she entered, she found Shelly lounging on the couch, watching TV.

Shelly looked up and casually asked, "Where did you go? It's late."

Wearily, Sienna dropped her keys, put on her slippers, and headed to the living room. She collapsed onto the couch, feeling completely exhausted. Noticing Sienna's reddened eyes and her downcast demeanor, Shelly asked, "Did you go see Captain Morrison again?"

Sienna curled up on the couch, too pained to utter a word.

Shelly sighed. "Sienna, please don't

be upset with me. I'm only trying

g to

protect you. Life is valuable. Do you

realize how many police officers risk their lives every year?"

Sienna kept her eyes closed, saying nothing.

"I don't want you to become a widow at such a young age. I'm also worried about how his job might affect our family. And—"

Sienna erupted in anger. She looked at Shelly with teary eyes and shouted, "Mom, enough. I've already ended things with him. What more do you want?"

Chapter 718

Chapter 718

"I..." Shelly stammered. She swallowed nervously and continued, "I-I'm doing this because I care about you."

Sienna wiped away her tears, her voice trembling with emotion as she said, "There are countless people in this world. Every day, lives are lost to illness, accidents, or even violence. Who can we truly protect from such fates?

"If I marry a driver, can you promise he won't be involved in a tragic accident? If I marry a small business owner, can you guarantee he won't fall victim to alcoholism?

"If I marry a farmer, can you promise he won't succumb to poverty or illness? Just look at the heartbreaking stories of entire families being devastated that we see in the news. "Behind these incidents are ordinary people. These unforeseeable tragedies aren't exclusive to anti-drug officers. I beg you. Please don't transfer your misfortune onto me."

As Sienna finished speaking, she collapsed onto the couch and sobbed uncontrollably.

Shelly felt panicked and was unsure of what to do. She stood still, her thoughts in chaos.

Sienna stood up after crying, wiping away her tears and sniffing. "Your first love, who later became your fiancé, passed away in an accident, and it haunted you forever. "Now, I'm just as miserable as you are. The only difference is my first love didn't die. You're the one who suffocated our relationship."

Shelly's face went pale, and she froze in place.

After speaking her mind, Sienna grabbed her phone and headed to her room.

The living room descended into silence. Shelly stayed unresponsive for a while. Later, she slumped against the couch, her empty gaze filling with tears.

That night, neither Sienna nor Shelly slept well.

The next morning, after some reflection, Sienna calmed down. She realized her words from the previous night might have been too harsh and could have hurt Shelly's feelings. After all, Shelly had Sienna's best interests at heart.

With a twinge of guilt, Sienna rapped on Shelly's door. "Mom, are you up?"

No answer came from within.

Sienna knocked again, feeling a hint of anxiety. Shelly's moods were unpredictable. She often lamented about life and battled bouts of depression.

"Mom." Sienna rapped harder.

Suddenly, the door creaked open.

Sienna's heart eased. She looked at Shelly. "Mom, are you all right?"

Shelly snorted. "What could be wrong with me?"

"About last night-" Sienna was about to apologize for what happened last night, but Shelly cut her off.

"In two days, Felix is getting out of the hospital. Go pick up some nice groceries and have Captain Morrison over for a meal at our house."

"Me? Invite him?" Sienna was surprised, giving Shelly a puzzled look.

"He's your boyfriend. You should ask him yourself. Are you expecting me to do it?" Shelly asked, feigning annoyance.

Sienna was stunned. After a brief pause, she said, "We've broken up."

Shelly's expression turned grim, her brow knitting together. "He's moved on that fast? Well, forget about him. A guy like that doesn't deserve you."

Happiness flooded Sienna so

suddenly that it took her a moment

to react. Tears of joy filled her eyes, and she beamed. "Mom, he hasn't moved on. He's still waiting for me..."

Overwhelmed with emotions, Sienna hugged Shelly and added tearfully, "Thank you, Mom. Thank you."

Pretending to be annoyed, Shelly pushed Sienna away. "You're too affectionate for this early in the morning. Is breakfast ready?"

Sienna grinned, her happiness apparent as she headed to the kitchen. "Not yet, Mom, but I'll whip something up quickly. Just give me a moment!"

As Shelly watched Sienna bustling

around with joy, her expression

softened. A smile spread across her

face. She silently wished that Sienna

would always be spared from hardship and financial struggles.

Daniel was a genuinely nice guy, and

their family was financially

comfortable. Shelly couldn't help but

assume that the wedding gifts

Daniel would provide would be quite valuable.

Contemplating the gifts they might receive, Shelly found herself liking her future son-in-law even more.

Chapter 719

Chapter 719

Sienna couldn't wait to find Daniel after getting Shelly's approval. But reflecting on her harsh words from last night, she wondered how he was coping. Was he even willing to see her? She held onto her phone, her eyes fixed on the last message she sent to Daniel. There was no response from him yet.

The day before, Sienna stated that she didn't have feelings for him and that she didn't love him. Would texting him now to express her desire to be with him seem insincere?

Would Daniel think she had disregarded his emotions and taken him for granted?

Sienna clutched her phone, a whirlwind of thoughts tormenting her. Neither calling nor texting seemed adequate to express her true feelings.

As the evening approached, Sienna rode her electric scooter toward the police station. She figured this was around the time Daniel would be finishing work.

The sunset cast a warm glow around her. She savored the beauty of the scenery along the roadside. A deep sense of contentment washed over her.

Humming a tune without melody, Sienna glided beneath the dense canopy of sycamore trees. The spring breeze gently kissed her face, carrying the fragrance of freshness. She felt exceptionally peaceful. Half an hour later, Sienna reached the police station. She parked her electric scooter and quietly gazed at the entrance, waiting for Daniel. People bustled in and out, but he was nowhere in sight. After a while, Sienna locked her scooter and grabbed her tote bag, feeling nervous as she entered the station. Once inside, she surveyed the surroundings and found police officers busy handling cases and their duties.

Suddenly, a police officer in uniform passed by and asked, "Can I assist you with something?"

Sienna smiled warmly and anxiously asked, "Excuse me, is Captain Morrison from the Drug Enforcement Division here?"

The officer glanced back into the office and replied, "No, he's not here."

"Where did he go?" Sienna asked.

The officer's expression turned serious as he scrutinized her. "Who are you? What's your business with him?"

Sienna sensed his wariness and strictness. Perhaps it was because of his profession, but he gave off an intimidating air.

Uncertain of her role in Daniel's life, Sienna didn't answer his question. She nodded politely and said, "Thank you. I'll wait for him at his house."

With that, Sienna hurriedly left the police station.

She quickly hopped back onto her

electric scooter and sped away. When

Then turned at the intersection, she saw Daniel's car emergine

from

the rear gates onto the main road.

It looked like he had just completed his work shift because he was driving his own car.

Sienna wasted no time and chased after him on her electric scooter. Luckily, a traffic light was up ahead, and she was almost closing in on him.

Yet, just as she was about to catch up, the light changed to green, and his car shot off. She pushed her scooter to its maximum speed, shifting it into the highest gear.

Just when she was on the verge of

catching up, she noticed Daniel wasn't heading home. Instead, he pulled over at the entrance of an upscale residential area, seemingly waiting for someone.

As Sienna closed in, she witnessed Vivian emerging from the residential area. She was dressed elegantly and clutching a bag. She then slid into the passenger seat of Daniel's car.

The distance between Sienna and them was only a few dozen feet.

Choosing not to follow further, Sienna slammed on the brakes and stood still. She felt a jumble of emotions as she watched Daniel's car slowly vanish.

Why was Vivian all dolled up to hop into Daniel's car? Where could they be headed?

Sienna felt a knot form in her chest, a sour feeling creeping in. It was difficult to put into words, but it was uncomfortable.

She recalled Vivian's confident remarks about Daniel's love for her. And with the timing, it seemed like an opportune moment for a romantic outing.

Sienna took a deep breath and silently chastised herself. Why was she bothered by this? Hadn't she confidently declared yesterday that she had no feelings for him?

After all, Daniel was quite a catch. There was no need for him to be committed to just one person.

Chapter 720

Chapter 720

Sienna silently scolded herself for not valuing what she once had and held herself responsible. With a heavy heart, she turned her electric scooter back home.

In the days that followed, Sienna couldn't muster the courage to see Daniel. Instead, she constantly checked her phone, hoping for his message.

She longed for a reason and the bravery to reach out to him, but each day passed without progress.

On the day Felix left the hospital, Shelly prepared various dishes at home. She had asked Sienna to invite Daniel over, but Sienna was unsure of how to broach the subject with him.

In the hospital ward, Felix folded clothes and stole occasional glances at Sienna, who sat quietly on a stool. "You're here to pick me up, yet you're not lending a hand. Why are you just lost in your phone?" Putting her phone down, Sienna glared at Felix and replied, "You're perfectly capable of moving, aren't you? Why make a fuss over folding clothes?"

Felix shook his head in exasperation. "You're really thoughtless. Anyone who marries you is in for a tough ride."

Already feeling down, Sienna felt even worse when Felix brought up the topic. She retorted, "I'm not asking you to marry me, am I?"

Sienna and Felix had been teasing and arguing since they were children. They'd always had little fights when they were kids and disagreements as they grew older.

Felix didn't hold back his words. "Let me be blunt. Guys dislike women like you who have a great body. It makes them feel insecure, like they could be betrayed at any moment. "You're not gentle, thoughtful, or considerate. You're hot-headed, and you're too gorgeous."

"I'm blessed with a great figure, something you can only dream of. A skinny guy like you deserves nothing better than a twig for a partner," Sienna snapped.

"You..." Felix winced, feeling the sting of his wound. His expression turned grim as he pointed at Sienna.

Refusing to back down, Sienna added, "No, not even a twig would want to be with someone like you. You should just stay single forever."

Felix clenched his jaw. "Sienna, watch what you say."

Suddenly, a knock on the door echoed. Sienna and Felix fell silent, their attention shifting to the doorway.

Daniel stood there, looking slightly embarrassed at the sight of the siblings arguing. The door had been open all along, but he felt compelled to knock. He found their squabble rather childish.

"Dan, you're here?" Felix exclaimed with a smile.

During Felix's time in the hospital, Daniel had been a frequent visitor. Their friendship had deepened over time. What began as "Captain Morrison" had now become simply

"Dan" Their connection had become

stronger.

Felix found himself growing quite fond of Sienna's ex-boyfriend. Not only was he mature and reliable, but he was also generous, capable, and trustworthy.

Daniel smiled warmly at Felix, nodding as he walked in. "How are you feeling?"

Felix grinned. "I'm doing great. I just need to take it easy after returning home."

Sienna sat anxiously, feeling her

heart race. Seeing Daniel again, the memories from their last encounter

came flooding back. Her cheeks turned red, and she couldn't shake the feeling of shyness that washed over her.

After greeting Felix, Daniel turned his attention to Sienna.

As soon as their eyes met, Sienna felt a warmth spread through her body. She became nervous and didn't know how to react, so she instinctively looked down to avoid his gaze. Daniel remained calm and polite, as always. "Sienna," he greeted her.

Sienna couldn't shake the feeling that she was acting strangely. Why was she suddenly feeling so awkward and getting embarrassed so easily?

She was so nervous that her breathing became uneven. There were countless words she wished to tell him, but the memory of his rendezvous with Vivian made her hesitate to speak at all. Sienna's silence and avoidance of eye contact made Daniel uneasy. His mood shifted, and his expression grew solemn.

As Felix finished packing, he said, "Sienna, you can head back by yourself. I won't be using your electric scooter. I'll ride with Dan in his car."