Ch. 161..170

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 161

Cringy Phone Conversation

In the end, she grew tired and stopped hitting him. “Carter, please tell me that was a joke,” she demanded furiously.

Unfazed, Carter told her, “Mom, I’m tired. You should head home.”

He successfully ignited her anger again.

“Damn it! Why are you so stubborn? You have plenty of choices out there. Why won’t you give up on Amelia? Is she that amazing? Is she worth all your efforts?” Faye yelled in fury. “You’re seriously taking revenge on what I did back then. I raised you up, but this is what I get in return. How disappointing!”

Carter’s mind was throbbing dully. First, Jennifer caused a scene, followed by his mother. He couldn’t help but get depressed.

Meanwhile, Faye took a deep breath to calm herself down.

Sitting down, she dismissed everything with a wave and said, “Carter, we both need to calm down. I was too rash earlier.”

Carter lay in bed silently. It was more exhausting to deal with both women than to work nonstop for four days.

As Faye folded her arms, she spoke calmly, “Carter, tell me. What must I do before you’ll agree to marry Jennifer?”

“Mom, I won’t marry her,” repeated Carter stonily.

Exasperated, Faye told herself, This is my son. He’s my son. I can’t get mad as we can talk things out.

It took her a while to regain her composure before she spoke gently, “Carter, I know you’re still sick, hence the immature words. Can we stop arguing?”

Carter’s head was throbbing. “Mom, I wasn’t trying to argue with you. Forget it. I’m tired, so I’m going to sleep now.”

Faye towered above Carter and said, “I’m not trying to force you, Carter. All I want is for you to forget Amelia and start a relationship with Jennifer. You need to give her a chance to find out if she’s the right one for you.”

In response, Carter’s eyelids fluttered shut.

Faye reached out and shook him to force out a reply from him. Utterly annoyed, Carter opened his eyes again and responded, “Mom, please give me some freedom if you still think of me as your son. The more you force me, the further I’ll drift apart from you. One day, we might end up being strangers. Don’t blame me, for this is all your doing.”

Faye was dumbfounded as she had never expected her son to say something this brutal to her.

Sighing, Carter added, “Mom, leave me alone. I’m really drained out by Jennifer and your actions. Do you know how torturing it is to be plagued by a woman you don’t even know? Stop pushing me to do stuff I hate!”

Disbelief flashed across Faye’s face.

“I’m doing this for you. How could you say that to hurt me?” Faye slumped down in her seat in dejection.

As Carter was her only son, she loved him dearly and tried her best to provide the best for him. Alas, her son didn’t even appreciate her efforts.

Feeling heartbroken, tears rolled down her cheeks. I worked so hard for him, but he couldn’t even understand my efforts!

She started bawling her eyes out.

“I’m such a failure! My son isn’t on my side and is even accusing me of being pushy! Well, I’m a stepmother to him. This is seriously upsetting.”

Carter watched helplessly as she put on a show.

He didn’t let her continue for long as she was, after all, his mother. Struggling to sit up, he consoled her. “Mom, stop crying. Do you want me to come and wipe off your tears while holding back the pain in my stomach?”

And Carter did just that. Yet, before he could leave the bed, he accidentally jostled his wound again.

Faye rushed to his side and helped him down anxiously. “Carter, are you all right? Does it hurt? I’ll ask the doctor to come examine you. You’re so stubborn! Is it so hard to give in to me?”

Carter let out a bitter laugh.

He was a decisive and intimidating businessman who could deal with sly foxes in the corporate world easily. Yet, the two women rendered him helpless.

No wonder Amelia married another man while Tiffany called me a jinx. I finally understand what they mean. If I can’t deal with my mom and Jennifer, I don’t have the right to say I love Amelia.

Carter took his mother’s hand and uttered weakly, “Mom, don’t call the doctor. Just leave me alone, all right?”

That was the first time Faye had seen Carter this weak. Her heart softened immediately.

She hurriedly tucked him in and replied, “I’m sorry for being too emotional. Don’t worry. I won’t disturb your rest.”

Carter insisted. “Mom, I want to be left alone. Please?”

Left with no choice, Faye agreed reluctantly. “Okay, I’ll leave for now. Rest well. If you need me, I’ll be right outside.”

Carter nodded.

After Faye left, Carter took his phone and called Amelia without hesitation. However, she didn’t answer his call.

He typed out a text: Amelia, I’m sorry. I didn’t know Jennifer would push you earlier. I’m really sorry about that. Can you please answer my call?

Ten minutes later after he sent that text, there was still no reply from Amelia.

A sense of helplessness welled up inside Carter as he let out a long sigh.

Meanwhile, Amelia heaved a sigh when she saw Carter’s text, too.

Tiffany gave her some warm milk and asked, “Is it from Carter?”

Amelia nodded.

“What did he say?”

Without hesitation, Amelia handed her phone to Tiffany.

After reading the text from Carter, Tiffany snickered. “Jinx! Will an apology suffice for what he did to harm you?”

Amelia was tickled by her reaction.

“Tiff, don’t be prejudiced toward Carter. It’s unfair for you to blame everything on him,” said Amelia.

Tiffany snorted. “It’s his fault for having such a weird family. Now, that possessive Jennifer Larson has dug her claws into him. He’s unlucky for being surrounded by weirdos. You can’t blame me for scolding him, can you?”

Amelia retrieved her phone and deleted the text.

She sipped on her warm milk and revealed her thoughts. “Sometimes, I pity him for having such a mother. He needs to go along with her wishes lest others label him as an unfilial son. It’s difficult for him to go against her.”

Tiffany spoke nonchalantly, “A matured adult would be able to deal with his relationships easily. Only a mama’s boy would obey to his mother’s every command.”

Amelia chuckled without saying anything.

Tiffany steered the conversation back to the topic. “I think Carter is getting possessive of you, Amelia. If you don’t like him, you should keep a distance from him.”

Amelia could sense that as well. She felt pressured by Carter’s change.

Tiffany continued, “Babe, don’t tell me you didn’t notice Carter’s change? I’ve only dated a few times, but as a freelance writer, I’m really good at observing men.”

Amelia seemed to be deep in thought.

Furrowing her brows, Tiffany continued, “Babe, I think you should stop contacting Carter. Jennifer was raised in a loving family, so she won’t allow the man she loves to care for another woman. I’m not asking you to cut off ties with him. At least wait until you give birth to your baby.”

After pondering briefly, Amelia nodded.

“You should stay with me for a few days. Anyway, Oscar is busy with his lover now. He won’t remember his wife for the time being,” said Tiffany with a straight face.

At her words, Amelia’s eyes dimmed a little.

Just then, Amelia’s phone rang with a call from Oscar.

Tiffany glanced at her and inquired, “Who is it?”

“Oscar,” replied Amelia softly as she answered the call.

“Huh. Speak of the devil,” muttered Tiffany.

“Mr. Clinton,” Amelia greeted him politely.

“Where are you?” Oscar sounded worn out.

Amelia felt sorry for him, so her voice softened. “What’s wrong? You sound exhausted. Is it tiring to take care of Ms. Yard?”

“A little. I miss you.”

Amelia was shocked into silence. After all, this was the first time Oscar had ever talked to her in that manner.

Her cheeks flushed pink while her hand shivered in delight.

“If you miss me, come home. Will you be back tonight? I’ll prepare dinner for you. We haven’t eaten together for some time. I miss that a lot,” she replied.

Then, she held her breath in anticipation.

“All right. I’ll be home tonight.”

Upon hearing Oscar’s answer, happiness glowed inside Amelia’s heart.

“I’ll wait for you, then. Don’t be late or stand me up, okay? I’ll prepare a delicious spread for you.”

“Okay.”

Tiffany cringed at their conversation.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 162

The Atmosphere Is Just Right

Even after they hung up, Amelia’s smile did not fade. She looked like a young girl in love, giggling to herself from time to time.

Tiffany shivered, looking as if she could not stand the scene in front of her. “Wipe your mouth. Your saliva is dripping everywhere.”

Amelia then actually lifted her hand to the corner of her mouth. Tiffany was dumbfounded. Women in love were scary. One moment, she would be sensible and calm. The next, it was as if she was out of her mind.

“Babe, there’s no cure for you anymore. All it takes is one call from Oscar and you’re acting as if you’ve lost your mind. I’m sure you’re better than this.”

Amelia placed her phone down, then smiled faintly. “I haven’t seen him in a few days. I miss him. My baby misses Daddy too.”

Tiffany looked at her in disbelief. She did not think Amelia could come up with such a lame excuse.

“Do you want me to send you home, or do you want to go over to my place first?”

“Send me home. I need to go to the farmer’s market. He’s coming back, so I want to buy some ingredients and cook a nice meal for him.”

Tiffany glanced at Amelia’s belly in disapproval.

“Isn’t Molly home? Just give her a call and get her to do it. What’s the use of having a housekeeper if the owner needs to do everything by herself? You treat your housekeeper too well, giving her a higher salary than others, but also letting her do less work than she should. You’re letting her take advantage of you.”

Amelia looked at her, stunned. “Tiff, stop blaming Molly. I’m the one who wants to spend time alone with Oscar. Besides, her salary is paid by the Clintons. Even if she doesn’t come over to work here, she’s working back at Clinton Residence. She’s definitely not working less than others.”

As Tiffany drove, she said, “Fine. I know you have a good relationship with Molly. I only said one thing but you’re already defending her so much. If I say anything else I’m afraid you’ll actually start attacking me.”

Amelia was stupefied. She did not know why Tiffany was picking a fight with the housekeeper.

However, Tiffany was simply acting angry on purpose. She smiled and continued, “Okay, I won’t tease you anymore. I’ll come along and give you a hand.”

Amelia leaned back on the passenger seat and smiled to herself.

As Tiffany was familiar with the roads, they had a smooth drive to the farmer’s market. She parked the car, got off, and moved to stand beside Amelia. She remained protective of her as they walked, fearful of someone accidentally bumping into Amelia.

Seeing how cautious Tiffany was being, Amelia felt warmth in her heart although she was also a little bewildered. “Tiff, relax. There’s no need to be so careful of others. I’m just pregnant, not dealing with cancer.”

Tiffany glanced at her and tutted. “Babe, can you say something more positive? Don’t joke about such things.”

Amelia waved in apology. “Okay, sorry. I was wrong. Don’t be angry, okay?”

Tiffany really did not know how else to handle her.

The vendors in the farmer’s market were all familiar with Amelia and were greeting her enthusiastically as the pair walked by.

“Hi Amelia, not buying groceries with Molly today?” asked a woman who seemed to be in her early forties.

“I’m here with a friend today. How’s business, Mrs. Fuller?” asked Amelia as she picked out some broccoli.

“The usual, neither good nor bad. As long as it gets sold out by tonight, I can close my stall.” Mrs. Fuller then continued, “What’s your friend’s name? She’s a beauty just like you. I keep hearing others say something about birds of a feather flocking together. I believe it now. Since you’re a beauty, I am sure all your friends are definitely beautiful and handsome.”

Both Amelia and Tiffany were amused by her words.

Tiffany replied sweetly, “Miss, you’re a beauty too. Since we’re all beauties, can you sell this to us at a cheaper price?”

Mrs. Fuller was delighted. The older women grew, the more they liked to hear others calling them “Miss” since it made them feel quite a few years younger.

“You and your sweet tongue. How much are you buying? For each type you buy, I’ll give you a discount of one.”

Amelia then handed the vegetables she had selected over to the lady. “Mrs. Fuller, Tiff is just joking with you. You’re running a small business. It’s not easy to make money.”

“So what? It’s no big deal. I make a little less money but we now have two beauties here at our farmer’s market. It’s rare for us to see such pretty visitors. Everyone here is happy to see you two.”

Amelia had picked out many vegetables from the stall, and as promised, Mrs. Fuller gave her a discount for every item.

After paying for the vegetables, the pair next went to a stall selling chicken and duck. Amelia purchased a whole chicken, then got Tiffany to carry it.

“Tiff, do you want to eat fish? Why don’t we buy some back and bake it?”

Tiffany replied, “I’ll head home and cook myself some pasta later. Just buy enough to cook for Oscar and yourself.”

Amelia laughed. “You’re helping me so much right now. Do I look that heartless as to make you help me prepare everything then just let you go home on an empty stomach?”

“I don’t want to be a third wheel.”

Amelia smacked her on the arm and said, “Stop your nonsense.”

Tiffany simply grinned at Amelia.

The two then headed toward the fish stall. Tiffany jokingly said, “Babe, if I stay for dinner, I’m afraid Oscar will get into a bad mood once he gets home. When that happens, remember to stand behind me. With his character, I can’t guarantee that he won’t be violent toward women.”

Amelia was astounded.

Tiffany was getting bolder with her words.

“The two of you must be a cat and a dog in your previous life. Whenever you meet you’ll definitely fight over something. Based on your novel-writing tropes, you two would become a couple in the end. Sure enough, novel and reality are definitely opposites.”

Tiffany pulled away from Amelia and acted as if she were fighting something off. “Oscar and I are clearly from two different worlds. Don’t put us together. If the two of us ever get together, it would bring chaos and destruction to the world.”

Amelia could not help but slap her on the arm playfully. “You’re talking nonsense again. He’s really not as bad as you said.”

Tiffany replied, “Babe, that’s because you’re looking at him from a lover’s point of view. As for me, there’s nothing else that’s good about him other than the fact that he’s handsome, rich, and has a good career. He is not even a considerate person. Only a fool like you would fall for such a man.”

This made Amelia even more dumbfounded.

At the fish stall, the vendors welcomed the two of them enthusiastically. A few women in their forties and fifties could not help but compliment them. “You two look really beautiful. I can basically tell that you’re born into good families and are educated women with good upbringing.”

Tiffany replied, “Miss, you must have been very beautiful when you were young too. Although you’ve grown a little older now, you must have been very popular amongst men when you were younger by looking at your facial features.”

The vendors all brightened up and laughed at her words.

Looking at the women, Amelia could not bring herself to say such false praises. They were not actually pretty, and in fact, could be considered somewhat ugly. She did not understand how Tiffany could praise them that way.

As the vendor’s moods improved, she gave them a discount on the fish.

“Since both of you are so pretty, I’ll sell you this fish for ten. Usually, I charge thirteen.”

Tiffany said, “Miss, it should be that we’re all beauties. Beauties understand each other the best.”

The vendor’s mood further improved.

In the end, the pair returned with their hands full of fresh produce and other items.

Tiffany carried the entire bunch, rejecting Amelia when she offered to help.

“Babe, don’t you think I am amazing? My sweet tongue has helped you save quite a bit of money. How are you going to repay me?” asked Tiffany, trying to take some credit for herself.

“I’ll cook you something delicious?”

“Don’t give me that. You only care about your husband now. Where is the room for me?”

“What reward do you want then?”

“Every night before bed, you have to tell your baby just how great and lovable his godmother is. Then, when he’s born, he’ll love me more than he loves his daddy.”

Amelia shook her head, unable to hold back her laughter. “Tiff, can you be any more childish?”

Tiffany kept a straight face. “I’m serious. I need to start forming a bond with the baby. Otherwise, based on Oscar’s personality, he won’t let the baby interact too much with me after you have given birth. I can already predict what he’s going to do.”

Amelia had long given up on trying to resolve the issues between Tiffany and Oscar. No matter what she did, as soon as they met they would start fighting anyway. It’s either they treat each other coldly or start to attack and ridicule each other. Most of their fights were started by Tiffany. Oscar was usually the one who remained cold and calm.

Back in the car, Tiffany continued what she was saying. “Babe, remember to talk to your baby about me every night. I want him to place me in a higher position than your husband in his heart.”

“Tiff, can you be more graceful and classy?” asked Amelia.

“No, you don’t understand. I have to compete with your husband to see who wins.”

“Do you think you’re writing an action novel?”

“I do actually have the intention to write one this year. It’s just that I’ve never written this genre before so I don’t know if my audience can accept it. I also don’t know if my editor will kill me for this.”

Amelia was not surprised by her carefree comments. After all, she was already used to Tiffany’s quirks.

“Your romance and fantasy novels have already helped you build a fanbase. If you suddenly change genres now, you may lose some of them. But who knows, maybe you’ll gain some new ones too. I quite approve of this new attempt. Maybe you can talk to Shannon first. What if she actually supports you? After all, when you’ve written one genre for too long, your creativity and writing style may become dull.”

Tiffany snapped her fingers and said, “Babe, you sure know me best. For your sake, I won’t pick on Oscar anymore.”

Amelia laughed.

Whenever she spoke about a serious topic, Tiffany always had her own ways to lighten the situation, astonishing those around her.

“I think the one who knows you best is the person who discovers your talents.”

Tiffany did not understand what Amelia was suggesting. She asked, ”Who?”

“Your boss, Mr. Hisson,” replied Amelia jokingly.

Tiffany was stunned for a moment. When she composed herself again, she rolled her eyes at Amelia. “Why are you mentioning him all of a sudden?”

“Who knows? He could be your Mr. Right.”

Tiffany started to blush.

“Babe, you’ve been learning bad things.”

“I could say the same for you.”

Oh, man! Did I just dig a hole for myself?

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 163

Show Off Your Affection

When they got back to the apartment, Oscar, who said that he would only be back at night, was already waiting inside. Amelia and Tiffany fell silent in shock when they saw him.

After a while, Amelia broke into a smile. “Mr. Clinton, you’re back.”

Tiffany spared Oscar a glance. Yet, Oscar did not even bother to look at her and walked over to Amelia. His eyes burning hot and intense into hers, making Amelia feel a little warm.

Amelia started to blush and her heartbeat quickened. She broke their eye contact, pretending to tidy her clothes.

Tiffany scowled, then spoke to state her presence. Otherwise, the couple would totally forget about her existence.

“Mr. Clinton, stop looking at her so blatantly. You’ll burn a hole through her soon,” said Tiffany deliberately.

Amelia’s cheeks grew even redder.

Oscar simply shot her a look and said, “You can go now.”

Tiffany laughed boisterously. She lifted the bags in her hands and said, “See these? I went to buy them with Amelia and she invited me to stay for dinner. So, it’s too bad that I’ll definitely be a third wheel today. I don’t think a president like yourself would be so petty to not even let me have a meal, right?”

Oscar looked at the groceries, then at Amelia. Amelia turned to Tiffany and said, “Tiff, put the groceries in the kitchen first. They’re heavy.”

Tiffany shrugged her shoulders and looked smugly at Oscar, forcing him to acknowledge that she still had a place in Amelia’s heart. Even if Oscar wanted to spend time alone with Amelia, she would not just chase her away.

In the end, all Tiffany wanted to do was to challenge Oscar and not let him get what he wanted so easily. She needed to let him know that no matter what, Amelia still had many friends that had her back, and was not someone he could just order around as he pleased.

Tiffany raised the bags in her arms and said, “Mr. Clinton, it’s time to make yourself useful. Take these groceries to the kitchen. A big strong man like you should act more gentlemanly.”

Without another word, Oscar took the bags in her hands and strode into the kitchen.

Tiffany said, “At least he got the cue.”

Amelia was feeling a little helpless. “Tiff, don’t quarrel with him since he’s finally made it home. Both of you are very important to me. I don’t want to see you fighting all the time. It’s making my life difficult.”

“Don’t worry. As long as he doesn’t hurt you, I won’t make things difficult for him. I’ll always consider your feelings first.”

Amelia patted her on the shoulder. “I know you mean the best for me.”

Tiffany shrugged and said, “I think ever since you were exposed to men, you’d totally forgotten about your best friend. You’re always siding with Oscar now and never speak up for me anymore. I’m getting upset.”

Amelia did not know what to say to that. Is it my fault to have fallen for someone?

Tiffany grabbed her hand and smiled. “Babe, I was just joking. When I’m done helping you in the kitchen I’ll make myself scarce. Oscar’s kind of machismo so I don’t think he’s reliable enough to help you cook, but it would be too tiring to cook everything by yourself.”

Amelia was touched. She laughed and said, “Stay for dinner. We have enough ingredients anyway.”

Tiffany glanced at the kitchen before she replied, “I don’t want to be the third wheel. Your husband is trying to kill me with his gaze alone. He clearly doesn’t want me here. One day, when he comes to beg me about something concerning you, see how I’ll deal with him then. Just thinking about it makes my day.”

Amelia stood still as she didn’t know how to react to her comment.

Those two had been fighting like cats and dogs for the past four or five years. Even Amelia’s attempts to mediate had never worked. There was no way for both of them to coexist as normal human beings.

They were just two magnetic fields that collided.

“I don’t think you’ll get your wish. He’d never beg you for anything involving me. However, there could be a possibility if it is about Cassie,” said Amelia in a neutral tone.

Tiffany shrugged her shoulders. “Who knows? You’ve been together for four or five years. I don’t believe that he doesn’t feel anything for you at all. Unless you’re telling me that he’s just a block of wood.”

Amelia had a blank look on her face.

She could guarantee that Oscar was no block of wood. Otherwise, he could not be that passionate in bed. However, aside from intimacy, she only had a handful of good memories with Oscar over the years. He was rarely involved in her life other than providing her with food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. Amelia also did not understand how she fell for a man who was so insensitive and unromantic. However, when she realized she had fallen for him, she was already truly, deeply, madly in love with him. It was too late to stop her feelings then.

Consequently, she started to care more and more about Oscar’s attitude toward her. Amelia was both excited and uneasy when she first found out about her pregnancy. She was excited that she finally had a child with Oscar, but felt uneasy as she was worried if he would ask her to abort the child.

Amelia’s feelings for Oscar were very complicated. Perhaps she had always felt that she had no sense of security in her marriage since their marriage was a love contract bound by terms and conditions. She would always become fearful even when any little thing happened.

Oscar came back out to join them after he put down the groceries and washed his hands. When Tiffany saw him, she said, “Mr. Clinton, how does it feel to live in the hospital? You were happy with someone else. I almost thought you’d totally forgotten that you still have a wife.”

Oscar only spared her a glance before subsequently ignoring her.

He walked over, sat down in front of Amelia, then caressed her belly and whispered, “Has our baby been good?”

Amelia smiled slightly and replied, “Sweetheart has been good these few days, and didn’t act up. Maybe he knows that Daddy’s not here, so he needs to protect Mommy.”

Oscar’s expression softened. He replied in a tender voice, “I missed you a lot.”

Amelia’s cheeks started to burn. It was fine if Oscar had not said those sweet nothings. However, once he said it, it made her heart flutter.

Tiffany, who had been watching this from aside, started to have goosebumps.

She rubbed her hands together and said, “Mr. Clinton, I know you’re a master of flirting, but could you please consider the feelings of others around you before you act all lovey-dovey with your wife?”

“The door’s over there. If you can’t stand it, you’re free to leave.”

Tiffany was already used to him kicking her out.

“The more you want me to leave, the more I won’t do it. It’s too bad for you, but I’m definitely staying,” replied Tiffany provokingly.

Oscar did not bother to respond.

Amelia was getting a little restless, fearing that the two would really start a fight. She did not expect Oscar to suddenly speak. “I won’t quarrel with unreasonable women. It would lower my status”

Amelia was taken aback. She subconsciously glanced at Tiffany.

Tiffany just laughed, her voice was laced with anger. “Same here! Everyone else says that Mr. Clinton is so refined and classy. Looks like that’s not true. From what I see, you’re not worthy of Amelia at all.”

Oscar simply kept a straight face and turned to Amelia. “Didn’t you want to cook? I’ll help you. We haven’t cooked together before. I’ll cook a few dishes and you can tell me if I’m good at it.”

Amelia was rather surprised.

“You know how to cook?” They had been married for so long, but she had basically never seen him cook before.

Oscar gently tapped the tip of her nose and said in a tender, loving voice, “Of course, I know how to cook.”

“But the last time…”

“I didn’t want to cook then.”

Amelia fell silent.

“What’s wrong? You don’t want to cook with me?”

Amelia shook her head.

Tiffany was getting completely ignored. Her presence was not felt at all.

Oscar took Amelia’s chin in his hands and studied her face. He said softly, “What’s the matter? Are you that surprised to know that I can cook?”

Amelia shook her head, clearing the disappointment away from her thoughts. She smiled and said, “I was just thinking, would you make me whatever I have craving for”

Oscar nodded.

“I want to eat roasted rosemary chicken. Do you know how to make it?”

Oscar nodded again.

He then stood up and offered Amelia a hand, like a gentleman. She put her hand in his large palm before noticing that Tiffany was watching their entire interaction, waiting for a good show. It was only then that Amelia realized she had been so distracted by Oscar’s charms that she had forgotten Tiffany was in the room.

Amelia indeed forgot about her friends once she found love.

Amelia hurriedly withdrew her hands and faked a cough before she said, “Tiff, what do you want to eat? It’s rare that Mr. Clinton’s interested in cooking today. Looks like we’re going to have a good meal.”

Tiffany crossed her arms and said with a faint smile, “Mr. Clinton, do I have the honor of tasting your cooking?”

Oscar immediately rejected her. “No.”

Amelia patted him awkwardly on the arm and said to Tiffany with a hint of embarrassment, “Tiff, he’s just joking. Don’t take it to heart.”

Tiffany was already used to Oscar’s rejections, so she was not the least bit unhappy. She simply shrugged. “Looks like I’m just an unwanted guest. I’ll just go back now and stop being a third wheel.”

Amelia mistakenly thought that Tiffany was really angry. She hurriedly replied, “Tiff, don’t be angry.”

Tiffany laughed. “Babe, do you really think I’m so easily provoked?” As she spoke, she moved closer to Amelia, then leaned in and whispered, “I’m trying to let you guys spend some time together. I don’t want to be the third wheel and have to tolerate your husband’s attitude toward me. You just enjoy your romantic candlelit dinner today.”

Amelia was deeply moved.

“You’re not staying for dinner?”

Tiffany shook her head. “I’ll just go home and cook something. You can flirt all you want with Mr. Clinton. I won’t bother you anymore. If you need me, I’m just a call away. Just call me and don’t try to handle it by yourself if Mr. Clinton bullies you. I’ll deal with him for you.”

Amelia felt so touched. At the same time, she was dumbfounded.

Tiffany waved. “I’m out.” She then turned to Oscar and continued, “Mr. Clinton, I’ll be leaving now. I won’t be an eyesore anymore. You can stop acting so petty. You look awful that way.”

As soon as she was done, Tiffany hurried off as fast as she could.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 164

Happiness And Bliss

Amelia stared at the door, which Tiffany had slammed shut. Then, she turned to look at Oscar. “Excuse me, Mr. Clinton, but are you that petty?”

Gazing at her affectionately, Oscar lifted his hand and tapped her on the nose. “Don’t you know that better than anyone else?” he drawled.

Unbidden, the corners of Amelia’s mouth lifted. She appeared to be in an exceedingly good mood now.

Meanwhile, Oscar was now in love with the feminine side of her – her shyness, allure, and even child-like naivety at times. In short, the many sides of her simply had him irrevocably infatuated.

I’ve truly squandered the time we’ve spent together in the past! I’d always thought that she was a gold digger, who was trying to seduce me, so I’d never planned to truly understand her. In doing so, I’ve really wasted too much time! But now, I’m glad I’ve finally moved to open my heart and appreciate the different sides of her. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have realized that she’s actually so adorable and enchanting!

Wrapping her arms around his waist, Amelia nestled into his embrace docilely. “I missed you, Darling,” she murmured.

This statement was very effective against Oscar, for the corners of his mouth lifted. He then pulled her nearer to him, plastering their bodies even closer.

“I missed you, too.”

An unprecedented sense of security flooded Amelia as she burrowed against him. I wish I can stay in his embrace forever, never to be separated from him!

Subsequently, Oscar raised his hand and stroked her hair. His deep voice was exceeding hypnotizing as he asked, “Did you eat properly while I was gone?”

At this, Amelia chuckled. “While you were gone, I used food to alleviate my sorrow and ate even more than when you were here. I feel as though I’m turning into a little pig now.”

As Oscar lifted a hand and placed it over her stomach, he jested, “Let me see whether you’ve truly become a little pig.”

Upon hearing this, Amelia’s laughter grew even more exuberant.

The two of them bantered for a while before Amelia changed the subject. “Darling, Tiff wasn’t deliberately trying to gainsay you, so don’t take offense at her.”

At the mention of this, the look in Oscar’s eyes changed. He then tilted her chin up. “I notice that you sometimes care about her more than you do me,” he noted tersely.

Amelia met his eyes, and they both stared at each other. In the end, she couldn’t help exclaiming with a giggle, “Don’t tell me you’re jealous, Darling?”

In response, Oscar grabbed her hand and nipped it. “You’ve grown bolder again now that you even dare poke fun at me,” he commented.

At this moment, Amelia’s smile was exceedingly sweet, the bliss written on her face plainly visible to all.

The affection in Oscar’s gaze deepened when he saw that. Tapping her on the nose, he then declared, “In the future, you’re not allowed to speak of Tiffany too much in front of me.”

Amelia lifted her head and stared at him as she said with utmost seriousness, “Darling, Tiff is my best friend, and she was the only one who was willing to stay by my side when I was at my lowest. I’ll never forget her friendship. Can’t you be a bit more amicable to her for my sake?”

However, Oscar remained silent, saying nary a word.

A glimmer of disappointment flashed across Amelia’s eyes.

He’s indeed rather good to me, but he’s unwilling to be good to my friends. People say that when a man truly loves a woman, not only will he take care of her meticulously, but he’ll also take good care of her parents, family members, friends, and relatives.

Admittedly, he has always provided for me financially, but he has never tried to be part of my life. Plus, his attitude toward my friends is also lukewarm.

Unbidden, she wondered, Is he still regarding me as a dispensable pet even as he draws close to me now and pampers me?

Naturally, Oscar noticed her sudden change in demeanor. Lifting her chin, he queried, “What’s wrong? Are you not happy?”

Amelia shook her head, shaking off the tangle of thoughts in her mind. Then, as though nothing had happened, she blurted, “Didn’t you say you’re going to cook for me, Mr. Clinton? Let’s go. I’m really looking forward to trying your cooking. After all, I’ve never seen you cooking in the five years we’ve been married.”

As a sense of distance manifested, Amelia changed her address of him out of habit.

The moment her words fell, Oscar hugged her domineeringly. “You’re unhappy,” he declared. It wasn’t a question, but a statement.

Amelia was still wearing a smile on her face, but her smile was tinged with a hint of detachment.

Oscar hated such a smile from her, for it made him feel that there was a gulf between them.

His possessiveness was exceedingly intense in matters of the heart, so he hoped that his woman would make him the priority without having any other motives in the mix.

“Are you unhappy because my attitude toward Tiffany is too cold?” he demanded, hitting the nail right on the head.

However, Amelia shook her head.

All of a sudden, she felt that it was rather childish to be bothered about such a matter when it came to their relationship. What does it matter whether he’s good to my friends and family? He’s my husband now, and he’s going to be my baby’s daddy in the future. That’s enough.

Furthermore, we didn’t get married out of love in the first place, but for some other reason. In turn, our marriage is destined to be stained with impurities. Thus, it’s actually rather unreasonable for me to hope that he’ll be good to my friends.

Out of the blue, Oscar asserted firmly, “I don’t like you keeping secrets from me.”

As Amelia stared at him, she suddenly felt like giggling. I never knew that he has such a serious side to him.

“Mr. Clinton, I really hope that you can get along well with Tiff. It’s not a far stretch to say that the two of you are the most important people to me, so I indeed feel a tad uncomfortable here when I see you both fighting like cats and dogs every time you meet.” As she spoke, she pointed at her heart.

At this, an array of emotions flittered across Oscar’s eyes. In the end, he conceded, “I’ll try my best to be nice to her in the future, okay?”

Amelia was stunned for a moment, for she had never expected that he would one day compromise with her.

I’d always thought that he’d never relent easily just because of a request from me. When did he become so soft-hearted? Or is he only this indulgent because it’s me?

When Oscar noticed that the smile on her face had turned genuine, he breathed a sigh of relief. “Are you happy now?” he asked.

Amelia replied in the affirmative and gave him a warm hug.

“Thank you so much, Mr. Clinton. Thank you for always indulging me. Even if I’m not the person you love, I still thank you for having treated me so well in the past four or five years,” she remarked sincerely.

Again, a range of emotions flashed across Oscar’s eyes, rendering his thoughts indiscernible.

After Amelia had said that, she flashed him an incredibly warm smile.

Then, she placed a hand over her stomach and lamented in feigned distress, “I’m hungry, Mr. Clinton. The baby is also urging me to tell you this – ‘Daddy, I’m starving! Hurry up and cook something for me, or I’m going to be angry with you!’ There you have it.”

At this, Oscar chuckled in exasperation.

I really can’t bring myself to be hard on her. Speaking of that, I’ve truly been blind in the past! How could I have thought that such a pure girl is a gold digger?

Subsequently, Oscar went into the kitchen to cook, while Amelia helped him out.

This was the first time she ever saw him cooking, and only now did she realize that he was actually a man with hidden talents. After all, his movements were extremely nimble as he bustled about. At this sight, she recalled how he’d once said that he couldn’t cook, nor would he ever cook. Actually, it’s not that he can’t cook or isn’t willing to do so. Rather, he hasn’t met the right person, so he didn’t have the inclination to cook. In this case, does his willingness to cook for me now mean that his feelings for me have already undergone a fundamental change?

As Amelia gazed at Oscar, who wore an apron and looked like a househusband, the corners of her mouth lifted. Ah, such bliss is truly inconceivable!

This was the first time a man had ever cooked for her. True to the claim that a man was most handsome while cooking, and she almost lost herself in his extraordinary allure.

In the past, he was very cold and aloof. But now, the man, who was washing vegetables in the kitchen, had lost his hostility of the past and was much more approachable. Hence, she was all the more captivated by his current self.

I can’t believe that such an outstanding man is actually my husband! I must have done a good deed in the past life and garnered God’s favor. That’s the only explanation for me to have met him. Despite our less-than-stellar start, our relationship is wonderful at this moment, and I’m also feeling blessed beyond words!

As long as he doesn’t mention anything about a divorce, I’m willing to keep myself immersed in this beautiful dream he weaved and believe that he truly loves me even if this bubble will ruthlessly burst one day.

Hugging Oscar from behind, Amelia professed, “I’m really happy now, Mr. Clinton. I truly wish this happiness will remain for a while longer.” She sounded wholly like a young maiden who was in the love for the first time.

While washing the vegetables, Oscar stilled for a moment. Then, he teased her, saying with a chuckle, “You’re happy just because I’m cooking for you. Are you really this easily satisfied?”

Behind him, Amelia nodded. “It feels like home.”

Upon hearing this, Oscar’s heart abruptly clenched. He then deliberately made light of things, noting, “I thought only diamonds and jewels will be able to win over a devastating beauty like you. Never had I thought that a mere meal is sufficient to conquer your heart.”

In response, Amelia lifted a hand and hit his back lightly.

In the next moment, Oscar guffawed aloud, his low laughter reverberating in the relatively huge kitchen.

Likewise, Amelia was in high spirits.

As Oscar cooked in the kitchen, she silently watched at the side. Such happiness and bliss were priceless, for no amount of money could ever buy it.

In the past, she always prepared a feast and awaited his return hopefully, but he either came home late for various reasons or disdained the food. Thus, she had to watch as the steaming hot food grew cold and lost all warmth – just like her heart. In the beginning, it was filled with hopeful anticipation before it slowly turned into disappointment, and finally, it became numb.

However, things were now different. Oscar was personally cooking for her, so she felt exceedingly happy no matter the taste.

In reality, women’s desires were very simple – a warm home, a loving husband, sensible and adorable kids, as well as for the entire family to be safe and peaceful. Apart from that, nothing truly matters all that much.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 165

Dancing

“Mr. Clinton, I’m really happy now. Truly, I’m impossibly happy. Even if this is a dream, I implore you to let me dream on for a while longer,” Amelia entreated.

After placing the vegetables he’d washed onto the plate, Oscar chided, “You’re letting your imagination run wild again, huh? If you like my cooking, I’ll take the time to cook for you when I’m not busy. I’m your husband, so it’s only natural that I cook for you. Is it necessary for you to think that you’re dreaming?”

Amelia rested against Oscar’s back like a child. Bliss was written all over her face, but her eyes unwittingly turned red.

He simply can’t understand my sorrow when it comes to my longing for a home. Ah well, he’ll understand one day. Or perhaps he’ll never understand it in this lifetime.

Nonetheless, Oscar’s broad back gave her a strong sense of security.

Again, she repeated, “Mr. Clinton, I really feel extremely happy now. Such happiness can never be measured by money.”

Her proclamation hit Oscar squarely in the chest, for he’d never expected her to be so easily satisfied. He was merely cooking a meal for her, yet it was already more than sufficient to have her saying that she was happy.

She said, such happiness can never be measured by money.

In truth, this statement was an epiphany to him. No woman had ever told him that the happiness they craved was merely to be with him without branded gifts or jewelry, a resplendent villa, or a sports car. All those women drew close to him with a motive. Some did so for the sake of fame and fortune, or even just for the thrill of it, while others wanted to enjoy a better life. Contrarily, this woman, whom he had once labeled a gold digger, was reveling in happiness at this very moment because of a meal he cooked.

All at once, a wealth of warmth engulfed him. This feeling was one he had never experienced before – a sense of contentment that was lacking even during the height of his relationship with Cassie back then.

Oscar simply allowed her to cling to his back like a koala as he continued cooking.

Undeniably, he was incredibly skilled at cooking, his movements unhurried. The entire scene appeared exceedingly beautiful and enthralling.

In short, it created a picture of a man cooking for his beloved woman, while the woman nestled beside him blissfully and looked on happily.

In other words, the man bustled about, while the woman waited to eat.

Indeed, it was all incredibly romantic.

Anyway, all this appeared very romantic in Amelia’s eyes. Even if this romanticism included the smell of grease and smoke, she still felt particularly happy.

The entire meal took two hours in the kitchen because of all their lovey-dovey gestures. When they stepped out of the kitchen, it was already half-past seven.

Amelia then got some candles out from somewhere and said, “It just so happens that it’s dark now, so what about a candlelight dinner, Mr. Clinton?”

Flashing her an indulgent smile, Oscar countered, “Don’t you think it’s even more romantic to eat under dim lighting?”

Surprisingly, Amelia acted out of character and pouted. “In the movies, it’s very romantic to see the male and female leads having a candlelight dinner, so I want my man to also reenact the scene with me. Mr. Clinton, are you not going to grant me such an insignificant request?”

Upon hearing this, Oscar was torn between laughter and exasperation. However, he still went with her and turned off all the lights. In a flash, the house plunged into utter darkness.

Amelia initially wanted to arrange the candles, but Oscar then quickly strode over and snagged the candles from her hand. “Just sit down. I’ll do all the preparation,” he asserted.

Amelia obediently sat down. She couldn’t quite see anything in the darkness, but strangely enough, she wasn’t at all anxious. Perhaps that could be attributed to Oscar’s presence beside her.

Out of the blue, she giggled. “Mr. Clinton, I think we’re both quite silly. Why didn’t we light the candles with the lights on? We just had to light it in pitch darkness. Isn’t it particularly silly?”

At her remark, Oscar was startled for a moment. When I’m with her, some of my actions have become rather silly.

At long last, he finally managed to light the candles. Then, he took his seat on the other side.

As the candlelight illuminated Amelia’s flushed face, she appeared as beautiful as a flower in full bloom.

Oscar’s gaze instantly darkened significantly as he stared at her.

Amelia then lifted her glass and murmured, “Cheers.”

Her glass was filled with milk, which Oscar poured especially for her.

Raising his glass, Oscar clinked it against hers. After taking a sip, he placed it down and took some food for her with his silverware. “Try this,” he urged.

Thus, Amelia took a bite of it. Meanwhile, Oscar’s gaze unconsciously followed her every move as he observed her expression closely. Even he himself didn’t realize that he was actually a touch nervous at this moment.

“How is it?”

Amelia merely lifted her head and looked at him without answering the question.

At this, Oscar’s brows furrowed. He then asked, “Does it taste bad?”

Still, Amelia chewed slowly and kept him suspended on the edge.

As time ticked past, Oscar became all more unconfident, and even his voice was colored with a hint of nerves.

“Is it awful?”

As Amelia looked at his apprehensive expression, she finally burst out laughing. Only then did Oscar realize that he’d been tricked.

All at once, exasperation inundated Oscar. “You’re really impish, woman.”

Subsequently, Amelia swallowed the food in her mouth and gave him a thumbs-up. “Mr. Clinton, I never expected your cooking to be so delicious,” she complimented.

Finally, Oscar’s heart that had been in his throat settled back into his chest.

“Truly?”

Nodding, Amelia supportively took another huge bite.

She was now filled with happiness. He has truly given me too many surprises today. Not only has he been tender to me, but he also cooked for me personally. In the past, I never dared to even think about this!

“Mr. Clinton, I’ve never seen you cook. When did you learn to cook?” she questioned, curious.

As Oscar took some food for her, he answered, “When I was studying abroad back then, I wasn’t used to the food outside, so I learned to cook. To improve the taste of my cooking, I even attended classes and learned different cuisines. I’m actually pretty good at cooking Erihalian cuisines as well, but I just don’t quite favor it.”

Hearing this, Amelia again flashed him a thumbs-up. “Mr. Clinton, you’re truly a man of many talents. I feel incredibly proud whenever I think of the fact that such an outstanding man like you belongs to me. It’s a feeling of, ‘Hey, that’s my man!’ I even wonder how I’m worthy to be your wife. Thus, I’m really thankful I got to marry you. Even if I did so for the money at first, but now…”

She didn’t finish her utterance, but she was certain that he would understand her meaning.

Getting up from the chair, Oscar leaned forward and knocked her head lightly. “Silly girl!”

Just because of those two words, Amelia’s eyes turned red despite herself. He’s simply too gentle under the candlelight, his loving gaze seemingly drawing me in.

She dipped her head and furtively dashed off her tears, unwilling to ruin such a wonderful atmosphere with her melancholy.

Then, Oscar took more food for her while prompting, “Eat more.”

Amelia then buried her head and ate. Oscar, on the other hand, watched her eat indulgently.

Perhaps his gaze was too piercing that even Amelia, who was pretending to be eating intently, couldn’t keep up the pretense anymore.

She lifted her head and looked at Oscar, who only had some noodles on his plate. “Are you not eating, Mr. Clinton?” she asked.

To which Oscar replied, “You’re a scrumptious dish in itself.”

Amelia was stunned at first before her cheeks flamed.

“Mr. Clinton, sweet talk seems to be coming to you with hardly any effort. Well, how many women have you said this to?”

At her remark, mirth bubbled within Oscar. “Are you jealous?”

However, Amelia shook her head in denial.

Placing more food onto her plate, Oscar then urged, “Eat more. I’ll be keeping you company at home tonight.”

Likewise, Amelia took some food for him and placed it into his. “Are you not going to the hospital?” she inquired.

“Are you hoping that I’ll go?”

Shaking her head, Amelia murmured, “I just feel that Ms. Yard is quite possessive about you. Will she really let you go so easily?”

It was clear as day that Oscar would rather not speak of Cassie, for he merely deflected, saying, “I told her that I’ll be going home today. Plus, Steph will be going over to take care of her tonight, and they’ve been friends for many years.”

All things considered, Amelia’s expression remained rather calm after hearing that.

“Why? Are you unhappy about that?”

Picking up her silverware, Amelia took some food and placed it into his bowl. “It doesn’t really matter. Ms. Yard is the woman you love most, so it’s normal that you’re concerned about her. Since she’s the woman you’ve been longing after for so many years, you should be very happy now that you’ve finally won her over.”

When Oscar’s heard this, he could tell that she was brimming with jealousy.

Thus, he deliberately teased her, exclaiming, “And you said you’re not jealous? I can even smell the strong stench of jealousy wafting in the air now. Do you not smell it?”

Amelia rolled her eyes at him and chided, “You’re incorrigible, Mr. Clinton!”

At that, Oscar laughed heartily, his laughter instantly riveting Amelia.

When his laughter had finally tapered off, she unwittingly blurted, “Oscar, you look really handsome when you laugh.”

Oscar was taken aback for a moment before he then snapped back to his senses.

“Were you swept off your feet by my allure?” he quipped.

Under the candlelight, he was no longer the shrewd and aloof man he appeared to others. Instead, he became particularly talkative and approachable.

Amelia felt herself insensibly falling head over heels at his outstanding personality and charm even as her heartbeat started accelerating.

Suddenly, Oscar stood up and extended his hand in a gentlemanly gesture of invitation. Amelia stared at him at a loss for a moment.

Hence, Oscar murmured, “My beautiful lady, I’d like to be your Prince Charming tonight. May I have the honor of having this dance?”

Amelia’s right hand instinctively flew to her mouth, and her gaze was stained with a hint of incredulity.

When she didn’t react, he repeated, “My beautiful lady, may this Prince Charming of yours have the honor of having this dance tonight?”

Jolting out of her surprise, Amelia languidly placed her hand into his, whereupon he pulled her up.

As he placed his hands at her waist, he asked in a low voice, “You don’t mind dancing with me in the living room without any music, do you?”

Amelia shook her head. In the next moment, she insensitively blurted, “When did you become so romantic, Mr. Clinton?”

Chuckling softly, Oscar boasted, “There are plenty more romantic things I can do.”

“Ah, you’ve been hiding your talents all this time, Mr. Clinton,” Amelia bantered.

At this time, Oscar placed a finger at his lips and shushed her. In an extremely entrancing voice, he whispered, “Be good and keep quiet for a while. You just need to feel it.”

Amelia obediently zipped her mouth.

The two of them then danced in the absence of music. It formed a beautiful picture – one that couldn’t be described by words.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 166

What Do You Want Me To Do

On the one hand, Amelia and Oscar were enjoying themselves, the living room filled with intimacy and tenderness. But, on the other hand, the atmosphere at the hospital was bleak.

Stephanie dragged the sofa over to the bed and plopped down without the slightest hint of self-consciousness. Looking distressingly at Cassie, who was as pale as a sheet on the hospital bed, she lamented, “How did you end up in such a state, Cassie? How did you lose the child all of a sudden? If I hadn’t overheard my mom’s conversation this afternoon, I wouldn’t even have known that you’ve been admitted to the hospital. I’m really anguished to see you like this.”

As Cassie stared at her, her eyes suddenly went red from aggrievement.

Upon seeing this, Stephanie hastily snagged a tissue for her. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying out of the blue?” she questioned.

Feeling all the more aggrieved, Cassie sniffled pitifully, “Steph, I only dare weep in front of you because we’ve known each other since young. I don’t dare grouse at your brother when he’s here, afraid that he’ll get sick of me and not want me anymore. However, there’s just this ball of distress within me. If I continue bottling it up, I’m truly afraid that I’ll go crazy.”

After wiping her tears for her, Stephanie urged, “Just tell me whatever’s troubling you. I’ll help you out. You’re the woman Oscar loves most, so he’ll feel for you if you grouse at him. He’ll never disdain you.”

Surprisingly, Cassie’s tears flowed all the swifter, making her appear extremely pitiful.

Stephanie truly regarded her as a friend and hoped that she would be her sister-in-law, so she grew panicked when she saw Cassie wailing in such devastation.

“Say something, Cassie! Don’t just cry. Just tell me if someone is bullying you, for you’ve still got me to stand up for you if worse comes to worst,” Stephanie prompted.

Dashing off her tears, Cassie murmured while still holding her cards close to her chest, “Steph, I only dare say this to you, so don’t repeat it to your brother. I’m afraid that he’ll blame me for sowing discord before you. Since I betrayed him back when I was young and willful, I’ll only have myself to blame if he doesn’t want me anymore.”

Stephanie had no inkling of what she was trying to say. But still, she replied, “Just let bygones be bygones. People have to look toward the future. Besides, you’re now back, aren’t you? You’re the only woman my brother loves, so he’ll never bear to have you suffer any grievance.”

After hearing that, Cassie heaved a loud sigh.

Then, she lowered her head to conceal the resentment and aggrieve teeming in her eyes. Despite her true emotions, her voice sounded extremely melancholic and pitiful. “I’ll be honest with you, Steph. Your brother seems to have fallen in love with Amelia Winters. He’s increasingly concerned about her now, and conversely, not as concerned about me as he did in the past. I’m afraid that I’ll be caught in an awkward situation after she has given birth, and there’s a child linking him to her.”

Pausing for a moment, she then continued in a choked voice, “Anyhow, I asked for it. I was the one who destroyed our relationship back then. Frankly speaking, I should tactfully remove myself from the equation now that he has fallen in love with another woman. But I love him! I can’t bring myself to just leave like that. However, what does that matter? My child is gone, so I really don’t know how I can win him back. Steph, I’m afraid that I won’t have the privilege to be your sister-in-law anymore.”

At this, an array of expressions flitted across Stephanie’s face. Finally, she countered, “That’s impossible, Cassie. Anyone with eyes can see that Oscar loves you.”

However, Cassie shook her head and rebutted, “You don’t need to console me, Steph. If you’d said this in the past, I might have believed it, but now, I’m afraid that your brother’s heart has been stolen by Amelia Winters.”

For a moment, Stephanie had no retort.

Suddenly, Cassie grabbed her hand and sobbed pitifully, “Steph, I really want to be your sister-in-law. Then, we can shop together and pour our hearts out to each other like sisters. But now…”

In an instant, Stephanie’s gaze turned exceedingly conflicted.

Meanwhile, Cassie’s tears continued flowing like a faucet. Her incessant weeping had Stephanie so flustered that she hurriedly wiped her tears for her while urging, “Don’t cry, Cassie. You haven’t recovered fully, after all. There’ll be long-term sequela if someone who’d suffered a miscarriage were to cry overly much or overthink things.”

Still, tears continued streaming down Cassie’s face.

Stephanie was at an utter loss. Yet, she still insisted, “Calm down, Cassie. I’m here for you. I don’t like Amelia being my sister-in-law either, so I’ll fight for you and ensure that Oscar takes you as his wife. Although the child is gone, both of you are still young, so you can have all the children you want in the future. Listen to me and stop crying. Two heads are better than one, so I don’t believe that we can’t defeat her when we team up.”

At this moment, a glimmer of malice flashed across Cassie’s eyes. Nonetheless, she still put on a show and uttered, “Steph, I hope you don’t offend her because of me. Otherwise, your brother will be angry.”

Contrarily, Stephanie merely waved a dismissive hand while callously declaring, “I’ve long since despised her. She’s merely a Cinderella from a destitute background. Other than her looks, she doesn’t have anything else that makes her worthy of Oscar. “Five years is long enough a reign for her as the daughter-in-law of the Clinton family, and she should be giving you the title now. Otherwise, I’ll be so repulsed when I’ve got to see her every festival that I can’t stomach any food. She’s simply too revolting.”

Wiping her tears, Cassie feigned hesitance as she muttered, “Don’t deliberately insult your sister-in-law just because of me, Steph. I don’t want your pity.”

As Stephanie sat on the sofa with her hands crossed, she retorted, “You know me best, Cassie. If I say I hate someone, that means I truly hate her. The only thing that woman knows is to act pitiful in front of my mom. “Ever since she became the daughter-in-law of our family, my mom has been treating her like a precious gem, afraid that she’ll shatter at the slightest hurt and spoiling her greatly. Even I, her biological daughter, come after that woman. She has long since been a thorn in my flesh, and I even hope that she’ll quickly get divorced with Oscar.”

Hearing this, Cassie dipped her head as a flash of malice flittered across her eyes once more.

“I do want to be your sister-in-law, Steph. But judging from your brother’s demeanor, I don’t think he wants to divorce Amelia.” Cassie’s voice sounded extremely disappointed. In the next moment, she lifted her head and looked at Stephanie helplessly. “Steph, you’re the only one who can help me now. You don’t want Amelia to be your sister-in-law, and I hope I’m the only person your brother loves. So…”

Off her guard, Stephanie asked, “What do you want me to do?”

“Break the link between your brother and her.”

For a moment, Stephanie didn’t quite get her meaning.

“What link?”

“The baby in her stomach.”

Understanding abruptly dawned upon Stephanie that moment. Her eyes instantly went wide, and she gaped at Cassie in disbelief. “Have you lost your mind, Cassie?” she gasped.

“I’m in full possession of my mental faculties, Steph. If the child in Amelia’s stomach sees the light of the day, I don’t think your brother will divorce her anymore,” Cassie surmised.

Stricken with terror, Stephanie jumped up from the sofa and waved her hands wildly. “No, no! That’s my nephew or niece. I’ll never kill my nephew or niece no matter how much I loathe Amelia. Cassie, I’ll consider it a slip of tongue since you’re too anguished after suffering a miscarriage not long ago.”

At this, a flicker of malice again glinted in Cassie’s eyes.

“Steph, there are still plenty of opportunities for your brother’s children to call you aunt in the future. But once Amelia gives birth, the link between her and your brother will deepen. Are you willing to live with her under the same roof, seeing each other every single day?”

Stephanie went silent upon hearing this.

In truth, she truly loathed Amelia. In the beginning, she merely disdained her, but when Olivia’s attention seemingly shifted wholly onto Amelia, her disdain slowly turned into intense hatred. Ever since young, she’d always been the center of attention with everyone eager to pamper her. However, after Amelia had married into the family, her status suffered a one-eighty turn.

Her mother loved Amelia more than her, so it would be a blatant lie if she were to say that she harbored no envy at all.

And at this time, Cassie again added fuel to the fire. “Steph, I heard people saying that Mrs. Clinton loves Amelia Winters very much, more much than she does, you, although you’re her biological daughter. If the baby in her stomach is a boy, her status in the Clinton family will most likely be elevated accordingly. At that time, Mrs. Clinton will probably go along with everything she says. Do you think you’ll still have a place in the Clinton family? “When you get married later, the Clinton family will be all hers. Do you think she’ll help you if you were to encounter any issues with your husband’s family? Don’t pin your hopes on your brother, for men will only listen to their wives. He might not even remember whose sister you are then!”

Upon hearing this, Stephanie’s face darkened time and again.

Indeed, she had considered everything Cassie mentioned, and that was why she envied and detested Amelia. What enables a woman, who has seemingly nothing at all, to easily snatch everything I had from the Clinton family? Stark resentment swamped her at this thought.

Subsequently, Cassie continued fanning the flames. “I’m not scaring you, Steph. Amelia Winters is the kind of woman who has the ability to lead men by the nose. Do you think Mr. Yard’s stance toward her won’t soften when she has given birth to the first grandchild of the Clinton family? With the child as the catalyst, everyone in the family will side with her at that time. And what do you think will become of you when you’ve once offended her?”

At this, Stephanie’s expression turned all the more forbidding.

In reality, if she actually understood Amelia’s character and trusted her family, this picture Cassie painted would never come to pass. Alas, she was clearly blinded by her jealousy. Thus, when someone else sowed the slightest discord, her trust in her family instantly collapsed.

Irrefutably, Cassie was indeed a rather shrewd woman, for she managed to hit Stephanie right where it hurt.

At this moment, a myriad of emotions flashed across Stephanie’s face and eyes.

Knowing that her provocation had already accomplished quite an effect, Cassie then changed her tune.

She pretended as though she was concerned about Stephanie instead. “Steph, I know you don’t have the guts to do it, so just regard all that as my tirade. Anyway, even if I don’t marry your brother, I can marry other rich heirs considering my family background. But as for you… Forget it. You’re a member of the Clinton family, so I shouldn’t be saying anything.”

After hearing all this, the range of expressions flickering across Stephanie’s face became even more unfathomable.

“You’re right, Cassie. My brother will still have other children in the future. I don’t mind having any other woman giving birth to the eldest grandchild of the Clintons, but not Amelia Winters. What are you planning to do about the child?” Stephanie snarled with a malicious expression, seemingly having made up her mind.

A flash of triumph glinted in Cassie’s eyes at once, but she feigned hesitance and murmured, “Steph, I’m afraid that if you get involved in this matter, you won’t be able to withstand your brother’s wrath when he learns about this.”

At this, Stephanie hesitated as well.

“How about you just forget about it? Just regard all that as crazy ramblings.”

Stephanie dithered for a long while. But in the end, she asserted, “No, this child can’t be allowed to see the light of the day. Amelia is already the apple of my mom’s eyes, so my mom will probably love her all the more if she gives birth to a son. At that time, I’ll be caught in a difficult position.”

Cassie was feeling increasingly smug, yet she asked with an utterly innocent expression, “Are you sure, Steph?”

This time, Stephanie nodded resolutely.

“Well, Cassie? What do you want to do? Don’t tell me that you’re dragging me into this because you want to make me your scapegoat?” As she stared at Cassie with a complicated look in her eyes, she also commented, “You’ve changed a lot, Cassie. In the past, you’d never do anything to hurt someone else.” In other words, Stephanie was saying that Cassie had now learned to scheme against someone else.

However, Cassie wasn’t at all bothered. Rather, a glint of malevolence manifested on her pale face. “Steph, I don’t want to hurt anyone either. I just love your brother too much, so I don’t want to have him snatched away by other women. I’m merely defending my relationship. You’ll understand when you fall in love with someone. “Anyway, you have no right to judge me. Isn’t Amelia also hindering your interests? Otherwise, would you have decided to make a move against her at the risk of your brother finding you out?”

Stephanie fell silent, indicating a tacit acquiescence at her words.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 167

Birds Of A Feather Flock Together

Cassie then looked at Stephanie and stated, “Steph, don’t blame for being ruthless when we’re now in the same boat. You don’t want Amelia Winters to steal all of Mrs. Clinton’s attention, while I don’t want Oz to fall in love with her. We have the same motive, and we’ll have attained our goal when we successfully drive her away.”

Upon hearing this, Stephanie mulled it over for a while. Then, a fearless smile bloomed on her face.

“I think this is quite a good turn of events, Cassie. You were simply a meek girl in the past, and I was even worried that you’ll be bullied because of your easy-going disposition. Thus, it’s good that you’ve now learned to scheme against others. This is something crucial to people from affluent backgrounds, after all. We’ve got money and power, so it’s only a matter of utilizing some connections when we do something wrong. Would the police really dare arrest and imprison us?”

As Stephanie said this, she was incredibly arrogant without the slightest hint of fear on her face.

Cassie merely smiled at her words, but inwardly, she was scoffing with contempt. Her comfortable life has her feeling that she’s infallible, but she knows nothing else apart from branded bags, clothes, and shoes. All she does is eat, drink, and play. When it comes to working, however, she’s a completely useless spoiled brat!

Subsequently, Stephanie picked up an apple and queried, “Can you eat an apple now, Cassie? I’ll pare an apple for you.”

Cassie nodded in response.

While paring the apple, Stephanie asked, “What are you planning to do about Amelia, Cassie?”

After a moment’s contemplation, Cassie mused, “Steph, what way is there to have a woman miscarry without arousing suspicion?”

Stephanie pondered for a moment before answering, “There are plenty of ways considering the current medical advancements. But if we use medication to do it, it’ll be easily discovered by the doctor. Therefore, the only recourse is a physical collision. A pregnant woman is very fragile.”

The moment Cassie heard this, she snapped her fingers. “Great minds think alike, Steph!” she exclaimed with a bright smile.

“But how should we accomplish it in such a way that Oscar doesn’t suspect anything?” Stephanie wondered.

Staring right into her eyes, Cassie declared, “That’s where you come in.”

At a loss, Stephanie pointed at herself. “Me?”

Cassie nodded and explained, “You’re Amelia’s sister-in-law, so she won’t turn you away if you were to approach her no matter the misunderstandings between you both. Thus, you just need to obtain her trust and ask her to accompany you shopping. Then, create a commotion on a busy street. In the midst of the chaos, someone accidentally collides with her stomach. Everything is then solved, no?”

At this, Stephanie swung her gaze over and gaped at her in surprise.

“So, you’ve actually planned everything and were just waiting for me to take the bait, Cassie?” she demanded indignantly.

Her scheming makes me look like a fool! She has dug a hole in the ground, and I actually jumped in foolishly. In the end, I didn’t know that I’d been duped and even offered myself up as a victim! Ugh! How infuriating!

It was as though Cassie could read her thoughts, for she hastily refuted and coaxed, “I’ve already been planning this, Steph. Initially, I didn’t plan on dragging you in, but it just so happens that you came to visit me tonight. I only told you about my plan because you abhor Amelia as well. Will I be plotting against you when we’re in the same boat?”

Stephanie then ruminated on it for a moment.

It does make sense. If I hadn’t overheard Mom saying that Cassie is now in the hospital after having suffered a miscarriage, I really wouldn’t have known that something had happened to her.

Meanwhile, Cassie continued, “Steph, if you’re afraid, just forget about everything I said. My child is gone, and your brother is already thirty years old. Hence, if the baby in Amelia’s stomach is gone as well, no one knows when your brother will have a child. Mrs. Clinton is sure to be hankering after a grandchild, so I don’t want you to take the blame.”

However, if she truly hadn’t wanted to drag Stephanie into this matter, she wouldn’t have said anything earlier.

Stephanie was actually quite conflicted, but she then remembered that her status in the Clinton family would be particularly awkward should Amelia give birth to a boy.

I’m the lady of the Clinton family, yet I have no room to breathe with Amelia there! Mom is always lecturing me with her as the yardstick and asking me to learn from her. As the lady of the Clinton family, I know better about manners and etiquette than anyone else! How is she better than me?

Because she was always compared to Amelia, her jealousy and resentment toward her multiplied day by day. For that reason, she easily took the bait even when Cassie had just sown a bit of discord.

Curling her lips in contempt, she mocked, “She’s just a woman with no manners. Is she worthy of giving birth to a child of the Clinton family? I’m even afraid she’ll bring the child astray!”

Just for the sake of their self-interests, Cassie and Stephanie would go as far as making a move against an unborn child. Hence, this was no idle prank. Rather, they were truly cruel without a shred of compassion.

People claimed that children and infants were always to be spared, yet they were even planning to murder an unborn child. Therefore, it went without saying that they were truly sinister.

Upon hearing that, the corners of Cassie’s mouth lifted. “It’s decided then, Steph. We’ll execute the plan when I’ve recovered and been discharged from the hospital. She’s going to give birth soon, so we’ve got to do it before that. Otherwise, we won’t have an opportunity when she has given birth.”

Stephanie nodded in agreement.

In the next moment, Cassie again spoke. “Steph, I think you should build a relationship with Amelia. You’re her sister-in-law, so it’s only natural that you show some concern for her,” she urged.

When Stephanie heard this, a flash of aversion flittered across her eyes.

At this time, Cassie panted slightly as she hugged a pillow against her chest. She wasn’t fully recovered, so it was already a miracle that she had managed to speak for such a long time.

Stephanie naturally noticed that something was amiss and hurriedly asked, “What’s wrong, Cassie?”

“Women will be weak for some time after suffering a miscarriage. I can’t quite catch my breath, so I’m a bit breathless. I’ll be fine after resting for a while,” Cassie replied weakly.

Stephanie then helped her onto her back while chiding, “Don’t overtax yourself if you’re weak. On the other hand, Oscar is really something else. Doesn’t he know that he should stay and take care of you in the hospital when you’re in such a state?”

At this, Cassie’s gaze dimmed a fraction. In a disappointed voice, she murmured, “Your brother’s attention is now mostly on Amelia.”

Upon that, Stephanie pulled the blanket over her before saying, “Don’t think too much. Oscar loves you. When you were abroad, he always took out the little gifts you gave him every once in a while and looked at them. And every time I told him that you were going to be back soon, he was always over the moon. “In my opinion, it’s impossible for him to have fallen in love with Amelia in such a short time. I think he just went back because he’s worried about the child in her stomach. That’s the first grandchild of the Clinton family, so it’s only natural that he’s concerned. Thus, don’t read too much into things.”

Cassie merely stared at the ceiling blankly. “I hope that’s truly the case.”

After doing and saying all that, Stephanie picked up the half-pared apple and continue paring it. When she was done, she cut off a slice and handed it to her. “Here, Cassie. Have some fruits.”

Cassie took the slice of apple, but she didn’t eat it.

Seeing that, Stephanie asked, “Do you not feel like eating apples?”

Cassie shook her head. “I’m just wondering whether Oz is being intimate with Amelia now,” she murmured.

Stephanie, on the other hand, munched on the apple and insensitively retorted, “Isn’t it normal for them to have physical contact when they’re married?”

All at once, Cassie’s expression darkened. However, she swiftly concealed it, so Stephanie didn’t notice anything amiss.

“That’s true. They’re married. I forgot that I’m the disgraceful and abhorred third party,” she deliberately lamented in a pitiful voice.

Conversely, irritation swamped Stephanie.

“Cassie, you never used to complain so much in the past. You’re noble, beautiful, and classy. Do you think Amelia is your match when you’re fully recovered?”

At her remonstration, Cassie’s heart jolted. I thought she’d side with me. Never had I thought…

“Steph, Oz loved me in the past, so I was naturally confident that I could win him back. But now, his heart has been stolen by that woman, so I really don’t know if I can still do so.”

Waving a dismissive hand, Stephanie cockily proclaimed, “Oscar has a fatal weakness – loyalty. On the surface, he appears rather aloof and distant, but we both know that he’s absolutely loyal once he gets into a relationship. When he falls in love with a woman, it’s for a lifetime. Therefore, I can guarantee you that he won’t forget you so easily.”

This was also something Cassie was once very certain of. The only reason she left without a single word back then was her conviction that Oscar wouldn’t forget her so easily. Of course, she never once considered whether another woman would be able to win his heart.

However, reality proved that she had overestimated his feelings for her and underestimated Amelia’s allure toward him. That was why she panicked and went as far as risking her life by tumbling off the stairs so that she would miscarry, and in turn, obtain his love. But in the end, she hurt herself and paid the price of possibly never having any children in the future. Yet, she didn’t obtain all of his love.

I have no idea where everything went wrong. He loved me a lot, but in just a few months, his attitude toward me has undergone a one-eighty turn.

“Stop letting your imagination run wild, Cassie. Your task now is to just sleep. I don’t want anything to happen to you, for Oscar will kill me otherwise,” Stephanie stated.

Stretching out a hand out of the blanket, Cassie grasped her wrist and implored weakly, “Have a chat with me, Steph.”

Stephanie was just about to say something, but her cell phone chose this moment to ring. She took out her cell phone and glanced at it before saying, “Sorry, Cassie. I’ve got to take this call.”

Then, she got up and went to the side to answer the call. When she came back, she insouciantly blurted, “Cassie, my friend asked me to make a trip to the nightclub. She said a new group of muscular men has just started patronizing it today, and they all look really nice. So…”

Cassie naturally knew what she meant, so she replied smilingly, “Go on, then. But do be careful. Nightclubs are a messy place with all kinds of people there, so keep your guard up.”

“Don’t worry. What else can people do at nightclubs? It’s just drinking, dancing, and going to a classy yet romantic hotel to have some fun if they stumble into someone they fancy. When they wake up, they both go their separate ways, neither knowing the other. Even if they were to meet in the day, they’ll pretend to be strangers. What’s there to be afraid of?” Stephanie scoffed.

Cassie merely flashed her a smile in response.

Stephanie then waved and bid her farewell. “Bye, Cassie. I’ll come and visit you tomorrow if I’m free. And I won’t forget about the little secret between us. I can promise you that Amelia will definitely be no obstacle to you.”

After saying that, she left right away.

As Cassie stared at the closed door, her expression collapsed in itself, her lovely face twisted with malice. At this very moment, she looked exceedingly ghastly.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 168

I Would Love Anything From You

After Stephanie left, Cassie continued to lay on the bed as she stared at the ceiling with wide eyes.

She then pulled out her phone and called a very familiar number.

It took quite a few tries before the other side finally picked up. Cassie’s voice immediately softened. “Oz, I thought you were going to visit me at the hospital. Are you on your way?”

“I’m sorry, Ms. Yard. This is Amelia. Oscar is currently in the shower. He asked me to let you know that he’s quite tired after taking care of you the past few days, so he won’t be visiting tonight,” Amelia’s businesslike tone informed Cassie.

Cassie’s expression immediately soured. “I bet you’re feeling pretty good about yourself now, Amelia,” she said through gritted teeth.

“I don’t understand what you’re talking about, Ms. Yard. If you have nothing else to say, I’ll be hanging up.”

“Wait,” Cassie said. “Don’t get ahead of yourself. Oz is mine. He always has and always will be mine. If you have even half a brain left, then you should leave and take that sorry excuse of a child away too. If not, I’m going to make sure your child never sees the outside world.”

Amelia frowned but tried her best to stay patient. “Ms. Yard, I understand that you must be in a bad mood due to your miscarriage. I’ll pretend I never heard what you just said. Anyway, you should rest early as it’s getting late.”

“Amelia!” Cassie screamed into the phone, giving Amelia a shock.

“You better watch it. Oz is only treating you nicely because of that bastard child in your stomach. Besides, he’s already promised me that he’ll leave you once you give birth to the baby,” Cassie said haughtily.

Nonetheless, Amelia’s voice remained calm. “Thanks for the reminder, Ms. Yard. However, it’s none of your business if and when Oscar and I ever get a divorce, even if you become his wife in the future. Please remember that as of right now, I’m the woman he married. I have the right to protect my own marriage. As for you, don’t you feel embarrassed being so unreasonable and cocky? I bet the Yard family must feel incredibly ashamed that one of their own has resorted to being a mistress. Where did your dignity go? I really don’t understand how you have the confidence to say and do such things.”

“Amelia-”

“Ms. Yard, I believe Oscar and I will be in love for the rest of our lives. Yes, he may have talked about getting a divorce before, but it’s been months, and my baby is almost due. I believe he’s still in love with me, so I think you should learn your lesson and leave before it’s too late,” Amelia fired back calmly.

If it wasn’t for Oscar cooking her that meal, she might have held back. But after experiencing that homely, comfortable warmth, she couldn’t bear to think about him leaving her. She would protect her marriage till the very end for herself and for her baby.

Cassie’s expression resembled one of an angry bull. Her breathing started becoming irregular huffs out of rage.

“Watch out, Amelia Winters.”

Amelia didn’t notice anything off with Cassie and simply replied, “I’ll be hanging up now, Ms. Yard.”

After hanging up, Oscar opened the bathroom door and walked out in just his underwear.

Amelia blushed at the sight of Oscar’s perfect figure on nearly full display in front of her. Instinctively, she looked away.

Oscar walked over and pulled her face toward his before kissing her firmly. At the sight of his phone in her hand, he asked, “Who called?”

Amelia came back to her senses and said, “It was from Ms. Yard. She asked me if you were going to go back to the hospital for tonight.”

Oscar looked at her. “What did you say?”

Almost as if testing the waters, Amelia replied, “I told her you wanted to spend time with your wife at home today. Is that an adequate answer, Mr. Clinton?”

Oscar chuckled. “That’s my honey.”

Amelia immediately cheered up as if she had gotten a shot of confidence.

Oscar then lay down, with Amelia naturally curling up in his embrace. He stroked her slightly rounded stomach softly. She wasn’t showing as much as other pregnant women would around this stage, but her belly was still rounded and pretty fun to touch.

Amelia smiled gently and asked, “Mr. Clinton, would you like to speak to the baby?”

Oscar leaned his head closer to her belly and said quietly, “Hi, baby. This is your dad. Be nice to your mom, and don’t give her trouble, okay?”

Amelia stroked her fingers through Oscar’s slightly stiff hair and said, “Do you want a son or a daughter?”

“A son,” Oscar said straightaway,

Amelia froze for a second. She thought Oscar would have given the age-old cheesy answer, “as long as it’s with you, I couldn’t care less.” Thus, she hadn’t expected him to give such a straightforward answer.

Amelia felt a little pressured and asked hesitantly, “Do you not want a little girl?”

“The Clinton family needs a son to be our heir. Though personally, I would like a daughter,” Oscar replied.

Amelia’s hand stopped, and her gaze became uncomfortable. “Mr. Clinton, what if I give birth to a baby girl instead?”

Oscar looked at her and chuckled. “Silly girl. I would love anything from you.”

Yet, Amelia’s expression was still uneasy.

In fact, her palms had started sweating, and she asked anxiously, “Do you really want a son that badly?”

Upon that, Oscar lifted his head and leaned against the headboard as he took Amelia closer in his arms. “The Clinton family needs an heir after all. Our business can never fall into an outsider’s hands. That’s why I need a son.”

At that moment, Amelia felt like asking, Just a son? From any woman? Does it have to be mine, or do you not care?

However, she forced the words back down before she could blurt them out.

She knew how stupid the question was. Just as Oscar had explained, the Clinton family business was extremely successful and was about to extend into the Erihal market. Besides that, their products had already made their way into the Koandria, Jetroina, and Thymion markets.

Oscar lifted her chin. “Is something wrong?”

Amelia forced a smile. “No.”

Oscar pulled her even closer and whispered, “Don’t worry. Mom will love the kid no matter if it’s a boy or girl.”

Amelia blurted out, “What about you?”

Would you be okay with a daughter too? Or are you going to treat her as a burden?

This man was just too hard to figure out. She always had to make guesses and tiptoe over the wall he had built. Yet the moment she seemed to get closer, he added another layer and blocked her out.

Amelia was always nervous when she was with him. She was afraid that Oscar didn’t feel a thing for her and that he wouldn’t love their child. Fear entrapped her, and it was all because Oscar had never given her the sense of security she needed.

She acted strong-willed on the surface as if nothing fazed her. Even so, under the surface, her thoughts ran wild, and she took every little thing into account. This left her heart vulnerable. Still, she put up a nonchalant front, so everyone else would think she was just a simple-minded girl.

Oscar flicked her nose lightly and said, “What do you think? Could I bear to hate my own kid?”

Amelia finally calmed down and relaxed deeper into his touch.

Then, Oscar patted her on the back and said soothingly, “It’s late. Let’s sleep.”

Nodding, Amelia buried her face into his chest. The unfamiliar sense of security lulled her to sleep soon enough.

Oscar just watched her face quietly, caressing her soft skin as he murmured, “Silly girl. Sometimes I have no idea what to do with you. Am I in love with you? All I know is that I’m starting to love spending time with you and that I don’t feel like letting go.”

This was entirely the truth. He truly had no idea what to do about Amelia anymore. Before, he would have been completely fine with paying her to leave him. Now, however, he felt like forcing this marriage to end by just paying her to leave would be a slap to Amelia’s face.

Ring! Ring! Oscar was shaken out of his stupor by a sudden ringtone. He picked up the phone only to see Elizabeth’s name on the screen. With a frown, he hung up instantly before shutting his phone off.

Then, he placed the phone on the bedside table and fell asleep with Amelia in his arms.

The next day, Amelia woke up still snuggled into Oscar’s arms. She giggled once she looked at Oscar’s fringe, which had stuck up somehow while he was sleeping. Reaching out her fingers, she playfully pinched his nose, letting go every time he seemed like he was about to wake up.

Amelia kept playing around with Oscar’s sleeping face until she decided to get up and get ready. After freshening up in the bathroom, she put on a simple white shift dress and went downstairs.

At the same time, Molly was already preparing breakfast in the kitchen.

Amelia walked in and smiled. “Morning, Molly. What’s for breakfast?”

Molly looked up at her and smiled as if she were a parent watching their child. “Good morning, Mrs. Clinton. Did you rest well?”

Amelia nodded.

“It smells great in here. Is that bacon I smell?”

Molly nodded and said, “I went to the market especially early this morning, so I could pick out some fresh goods to go with it.”

Hearing that, Amelia hugged her warmly.

“Molly, you’re the best.”

Molly chuckled and said, “Mrs. Clinton, you’re still as child-like as ever even though you’re about to have a child of your own.”

Amelia giggled. “You’re practically like my real mom at this point. Of course I can act like a child in front of you. Do you not like it?”

“Of course I do,” Molly said gently. “Did Mr. Clinton come home last night?”

Amelia nodded in response. “He’s still asleep upstairs.”

For some reason, Molly seemed thankful for that. “Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Clinton is a busy man. I hope you’ll be able to keep an open mind and let him do what he has to do. After all, he’s a man, and they all have lives outside the home. Don’t worry too much.”

At that, Amelia looked at Molly suspiciously and asked, “What are you trying to say?”

Molly thought things through before deciding to remind Amelia after all. “Don’t take this the wrong way, Mrs. Clinton. I heard from Mrs. Clinton that Ms. Yard is in the hospital. I just don’t want you to worry too much if he doesn’t come home as often.”

Amelia asked calmly, “Do you know Cassie too?”

“Mrs. Clinton, I’m telling you this because I really do love you as I would my own daughter. I knew Ms. Yard since I was the Clintons’ maid. Mr. Clinton had a relationship with her once, but they broke it off five years ago. Now, you’re the one Mr. Clinton loves. Don’t think too much. I can tell he loves you a lot.”

Hearing Molly’s response, Amelia chuckled. “I knew about Cassie a long time ago. Oscar is a great man, so obviously there would be plenty of other women surrounding him. Anyway, don’t worry; I won’t misunderstand anything. As long as I’m the woman right by his side, it doesn’t matter. Isn’t that right, Molly?”

Molly smiled.

“That’s right, Mrs. Clinton. I was starting to worry that you and Mr. Clinton would start arguing and drift apart.”

Amelia shook her head.

After that, Molly finally stopped worrying and finished preparing breakfast.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 169

Exhausted

Once Molly was done with breakfast, she said, “Mrs. Clinton, please wake Mr. Clinton up. It’s almost eight, and he still has to go to work.”

Amelia went upstairs after some thought.

The moment she stepped into the bedroom, she started laughing out loud.

Oscar was clinging onto a pillow about half her height as he muttered her name in his sleep.

To be frank, Amelia rarely got to see Oscar acting so child-like and almost didn’t want to wake him up.

Thus, she walked toward the bed and watched him for a long time. Suddenly, Oscar opened his eyes, and Amelia hurriedly diverted her gaze.

After Oscar properly woke up, he glanced at Amelia and smiled. “Come here. I want a hug.”

Amelia walked over to him and Oscar wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his embrace. He planted a soft kiss on the top of her head and said in a low, husky voice, “When did you wake up?”

“Ten, maybe fifteen minutes ago. You were sleeping so soundly I didn’t feel like waking you up,” Amelia replied with a smile.

“I thought my Sleeping Beauty would have given her Prince Charming a kiss to wake him up,” Oscar said lightheartedly, which was a rare occurrence.

Amelia giggled at his joke.

“Mr. Clinton, you’ve gotten pretty cocky. I can’t believe you’re calling yourself ‘Prince Charming.’ Has your skin gotten thicker?” Amelia joked, pulling Oscar’s cheeks lightly.

Oscar sat there obediently, allowing her to squeeze his face.

The two of them played around a little while longer before Amelia said, “You should go freshen up. It’s getting pretty late, and Molly made us a hearty breakfast. I might end up finishing all of it if you don’t get ready soon.”

Oscar pulled Amelia onto his lap and said huskily, “You can have breakfast all to yourself. I have everything I want to eat up right here.”

Upon that, Amelia’s cheeks heated up, and she struggled slightly, clearly embarrassed. She half-heartedly slapped Oscar on the chest a few times.

Oscar caught her hand in his and nibbled on her thumb gently. “What can I say? You taste better than any delicacy I’ve ever tried.”

Amelia’s eyes glistened momentarily.

Oscar simply couldn’t get enough of her.

“I wish I could keep you in my pocket so no other man could get a look at you,” Oscar suddenly said as he looked at her fondly.

Amelia’s heart started racing. She felt like she was drowning in Oscar’s deep gaze.

The last bit of logic she still had quickly reminded her to wake up and stop falling for Oscar’s sweet nothings so easily.

Oscar was good to her, but he was flirtier than anything else. Though he treated her well, he never gave her any promises about their future.

Hence, she was worried that Oscar wasn’t actually in love with her and that it was all just her wishful thinking.

“You better keep me in there for a long time, or I might just get snatched up by another man. By then, you might not be the only one for me anymore,” Amelia said, only half-joking. But of course, she was trying to subtly test Oscar.

All she was trying to say was, As long as you truly love me and keep me with you forever, I’ll do the same to you.

She hoped Oscar could decipher her actual message. Still, Oscar could very likely continue acting ignorant even if he did understand.

Just then, Oscar held her even closer and kissed her possessively.

By the time the two of them broke apart, Amelia had collapsed in Oscar’s arms, panting lightly.

After a while, Oscar looked at her and said, “Never talk about other men again. You belong only to me.”

Amelia looked at him slyly and asked, “Mr. Clinton, aren’t you getting a little too possessive?”

“But you like my possessiveness,” Oscar said proudly.

Amelia swatted him on the chest again and giggled. “You really are becoming bolder by the minute.”

She then stood up and started attempting to pull him up. “Get up, Mr. Clinton. You have to have breakfast before going to work.”

Oscar got up and pulled her into his embrace once again. He kissed her on the forehead before saying, “Go on then, I’ll join in a bit.”

Amelia looked at him and his tall, lean figure before nodding. “Make it quick, okay?”

With a light grin on his face, Oscar kissed her on the cheek. “I’ll be right there after I brush my teeth.”

After Amelia left, Oscar checked his phone only to see over twenty missed calls all from Elizabeth. There were also some text messages from her.

He opened it, and they were all saying the same thing: Where are you, Oscar? Cassie is getting another operation. If you still care about her at all, come to the hospital at once.

A frown flitted across his face; he couldn’t imagine what Cassie could have done in just one night to send herself back into the operating room.

He felt like the old Oscar would have been worried for Cassie no matter how minor the injury was.

However, now that he was finally away from her influence, he no longer felt like he was that worried about her.

He then called Elizabeth back. She picked up almost instantly and started screaming, “Oscar, you b*stard! How could you be so cruel? Did you know Cassie got a medical crisis notice yesterday? She’s still on the operating table! If anything happens to her, I’ll kill you!”

Oscar started gripping his phone even tighter.

“What happened to Cassie?” Oscar finally found his voice back and asked slightly worriedly.

Elizabeth started wailing in contempt, “Oscar, do you even remember Cassie anymore? Did you forget the woman you once loved?”

At that, Oscar’s frown deepened. “I’ll rush over right now.” After that, he hung up and ran into the bathroom to freshen up as quickly as possible before dressing in a casual outfit.

He rushed downstairs. Amelia, who was enjoying her breakfast, noticed that he wasn’t in his usual business attire and asked, “Mr. Clinton, is today casual day?”

Oscar replied, “Cassie’s in the operating room again, so I’m going to go visit her.”

For some reason, Amelia’s heart thumped loudly the moment she heard that. Could the phone call last night have something to do with that? But is that even possible?

She hadn’t even said anything insulting to Cassie except for the truth. Oscar was her husband, after all, so there was nothing wrong with wanting to protect her marriage.

If Cassie really did end up having to go back into the operating room because of those words I said, then she’s pretty weak-minded. If she purposely sent herself back in there, then she really is willing to do anything as long as it gets me in trouble.

Amelia then reached out and pulled at Oscar’s arm lightly. She purposely avoided looking at his face. “I think you should have some breakfast before you leave. You can’t go out on an empty stomach.”

Yet, Oscar stroked her face gently and said, “It’s alright. You eat up, okay? I’ll be going now.” After that, he walked out without even looking back.

Amelia watched him leave. She was starting to feel like this time, Cassie would create an even bigger rift between herself and Oscar.

At that, Amelia started feeling distressed. “Did the meal you cooked for me mean nothing to you? Why is it that every time I feel like I’m getting closer to you, you get further away from me and closer to Cassie instead? Should I just give up on hoping you to love me back?” she murmured to herself.

She didn’t even realize as tears started falling down her face.

Right then, Molly walked out with another set of breakfast but was shocked at the sight of Amelia’s tears. She quickly placed down the tray and rushed toward Amelia. “What’s wrong, Mrs. Clinton? Why are you crying?”

Amelia looked up and touched her cheek only to realize that she was crying. She forced a smile and replied, “I’m fine, Molly. Don’t worry.”

Clearly, Molly didn’t believe her. “If you’re fine, then why are you crying?”

Amelia reached over and hugged Molly like a helpless child. “I’m really alright, Molly. I just suddenly felt like crying.”

Heaving a sigh, Molly patted her on the back tenderly and said, “I’m here. You can tell me anything.”

However, Amelia just kept repeating, “I’m really fine. I don’t know what came over me.”

But of course, even without saying, Molly was wise enough to know that when a woman cried, men were usually the reason behind it.

“Did Mr. Clinton make you sad again?”

That question immediately struck a chord in Amelia, and she started crying again. “Molly, do you think Oscar and I can be together forever?”

That was a question she had never dared to ask out loud. She didn’t plan on crying, but it seemed like her pregnancy was messing with her hormones and making her cry even more easily than usual.

Molly was stunned before chuckling. “Silly girl, the two of you are made for each other. Of course you’ll be able to stay together forever. Don’t think too much, alright? Mr. Clinton might think I’m mistreating you if he comes home and sees you like this.”

Amelia started giggling. The tears streaming down her face and the upturned corners of her mouth created a stark contrast against the bitterness in her heart.

Oscar’s ambiguous attitude made Amelia’s life ten times harder. Her heart felt as unclear as to his feelings toward her. For Amelia, loving Oscar was the hardest thing she’d ever done.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 170

Will You Stop Making A Fuss

Molly wiped Amelia’s tears off gently and said in a loving voice, “Don’t cry anymore, sweetie, just come and talk to me anytime. I may be getting old, but that means I can give better advice too.”

Amelia started feeling rather embarrassed.

She sat up straight once again and asked, “I’m so sorry, Molly. That was unreasonable of me.”

Molly chuckled. “All I saw was a cute and loveable version of you. You weren’t being unreasonable at all.”

At that, Amelia giggled as well.

“Mrs. Clinton, I think you should ask Mr. Clinton to come down for breakfast before he’s late for work,” Molly said.

Amelia’s smile suddenly froze on her face. Molly noticed Amelia’s awkwardness and immediately understood. “Has Mr. Clinton already left?”

Amelia nodded, trying to act nonplussed.

However, Molly could already tell she was bothered.

“Did the two of you argue?”

Amelia almost wished they’d argued instead. But Oscar had never given Amelia a chance to argue about anything. He was always giving her almost everything she could ever ask for, and she was always just accepting it. It almost seemed like she was just someone he could buy off with money.

If only Oscar actually placed me first for once, I wouldn’t have to be so paranoid. It wasn’t even the first time that Oscar hadn’t prioritized me, so why did it hurt so much more this time around?

Maybe it was because their relationship had deepened after yesterday, and she couldn’t treat Oscar as some financial backer anymore.

“No. The company called and said there were urgent documents that he needed to sign, so he rushed off without eating. I was worried that he would get gastritis, so I guess I became a little paranoid.” Amelia randomly strung together.

Molly could tell she wasn’t telling the truth, but she simply let it be and replied, “I thought you two had an argument! If that’s the case, I can whip up a quick focaccia sandwich, and you can bring it to him later.”

Upon that, Amelia was hesitant.

Oscar’s departure seemed really urgent, and it seemed like Cassie was not doing well. If Amelia went over now, she could probably anger the Yard family, which would end up reflecting on Oscar.

After a torrent of emotions, Amelia finally shook her head. “It’s alright. He’s working, and I don’t want to disturb him.”

Despite that, Molly packed up some food for her and chuckled. “I think Mr. Clinton would love it if you visited him at work. He may not say it directly, but he really cares about you. Even when he’s not home, he calls me to ask if you’ve eaten and if you’re feeling alright.”

At her words, Amelia cheered up a little and asked, “Really?”

“Would I have to lie about something like that?” Molly smiled.

Amelia’s foul mood finally dissipated.

“Feeling better, Mrs. Clinton?”

Amelia nodded, a little embarrassed.

Molly was glad, but she still felt worried for Amelia. She could tell that Amelia had fallen deeply for Oscar, but she wasn’t sure if she could say the same for him. On the one hand, he had his old lover, and on the other, he had his wife of almost five years. Men were peculiar creatures in that they never treasured something until they lost it. Thus, Molly was worried that Oscar was in the same situation and that he was unable to see how much Amelia loved him.

Hopefully, Mr. Clinton would know better than other men and wouldn’t choose the woman who once left him behind. If he did choose her, Mrs. Clinton, who truly loved him, would get hurt, and he’d lose his chance at a regular happy marriage.

“Eat up, Mrs. Clinton. You’re barely showing even though you’re almost seven and a half months pregnant.”

Amelia took another bite at the bacon paired with some eggs and some homemade focaccia bread. It was savory with a hint of fragrance from the garlic and herbs. Pairing with the runny yolk, it tasted just like heaven. “This is delicious, Molly. You could compete with a five-star restaurant at this point. I can’t even imagine being this good at cooking,” she praised.

Molly felt incredibly happy at Amelia’s compliments.

“Mrs. Clinton, you were born into a good life. All you have to do is go out there and enjoy yourself! Buy all the clothes you want, and leave the cooking to people like me,” Molly said.

“Please don’t say that. Sometimes I start feeling like cooking is more fun than shopping, but my skills are far from comparable to yours,” Amelia chuckled.

While the atmosphere in the house was starting to lighten up, it was the opposite at the hospital.

When Oscar arrived, Elizabeth shot him a venomous glare. “I see you still have some humanity left in you, Oscar.”

Oscar hurried over and said, “What happened, Mrs. Yard? I thought she was doing well yesterday.”

Immediately, Elizabeth’s expression soured, and she slapped Oscar across the face. “If anything happens to her, I’m going to make sure you regret it,” she threatened.

Oscar’s expression darkened as well.

Just then, Charlie wrapped his arms around Elizabeth and said to Oscar, “She’s just high-strung because of Cassie, Oscar. Don’t take it personally.”

Nonetheless, Oscar just stayed silent.

Charlie sighed, his face lined with tiredness. “I think you should head home, Oscar. We’ll be here for Cassie.”

Elizabeth looked even more agitated at that.

With all her might, she wormed out of Charlie’s grasp and said, “He can’t leave! He’s the reason Cassie is in there right now fighting for her life.”

“You can’t blame everything on Oscar. Cassie chose to do that to herself.” Charlie replied helplessly.

As soon as Elizabeth heard that, she snapped at Charlie and glared daggers at him. “Charlie, need I remind you that the one lying in the operating room is also your daughter? I get that you’re still caught up on Olivia, but can you get your head clear enough to care about Cassie for one second?”

At that point, Charlie was already feeling exhausted. Not only was his daughter in the operating room, but his wife was also trying to start a fight. He was starting to feel like his once-happy family was starting to deviate into chaos.

He worked so hard just to provide a comfortable life for his family, but all he got in return was his daughter becoming someone’s mistress and his wife starting fights every day.

Oscar frowned and broke the silence. “As the reason for Cassie’s condition, don’t you think I should be allowed to know exactly what happened? Even criminals get to be aware of the crime they committed before getting sentenced.”

Charlie looked at him and sighed before passing Oscar a piece of paper. “This is the will Cassie wrote yesterday. If Elizabeth and I hadn’t visited her when we did, she might have already left us. She did truly love you, after all, so just do what you will with that.”

Oscar took the piece of paper and started reading the will. As his eyes traveled further down the page, his frown started deepening.

The will read: Oscar, I love you so much. I can’t stand being second to any other woman in your life. I’m terrified that you’ll fall in love with someone else and leave me behind, so I decided that taking my own life was the only way that you would remember me forever. If my death makes its mark on your heart, I’d take that as a success. I called you yesterday but that woman picked up instead. She said you had already personally confirmed your love for her, and that you were only getting your revenge on me. That’s why you treated me so well, so you could let me down and leave me behind. I didn’t believe it at first, but that woman sent me a voice recording confirming exactly what she told me. You already stopped loving me almost five years ago. I was devastated by that message. I can’t live in a world where you don’t love me, so forgive me for choosing such an irresponsible way to end my own life. I just want me to mean as much to you as you do to me, even if guilt is the cause of that.

Oz, this will truly make you remember me forever, right? I don’t believe that you no longer love me. I wanted to marry you, to put on a wedding dress, and read our vows together, though it looks like that won’t happen in this life anymore. But if we’re so lucky as to meet again in our next life, will you marry me then? You promised that you would only marry me. I can’t believe you went back on your promise in less than five years’ time. Not only did you marry another woman, but you were also even willing to have a child with her. You have no idea how much I envy her for being the woman you married. Oz, in our next life, please only love me, okay?

There wasn’t much written on what was supposed to be her will, but every single word showed how much Cassie loved Oscar and the lengths she was willing to go to have him all for herself.

Oscar couldn’t help but feel slightly startled at this strange, unfamiliar side of Cassie.

No one wanted to hear their significant other threatening them by taking their own life.

Hence, a woman placing such immense pressure on a man by literally giving her life up for him was only going to distance him from her. Oscar didn’t feel like this was romantic in the slightest. On the contrary, he was terrified.

At that moment, Oscar was feeling extremely conflicted. For one, he didn’t believe that Amelia would have sent Cassie such a voice recording. After all, Oscar had never even said such things.

Since he was aware of that, he couldn’t understand why Cassie would say that in her will. Was it simply so I would misunderstand what Amelia did?

The more Oscar thought about it, the more he felt like he no longer knew who Cassie was. The pure, sometimes reckless woman that he once loved was now gone. And in her place was a venomous, calculative woman who only acted nice and gentle in front of him.

Charlie patted Oscar on the shoulder. “Don’t take it too personally, Oscar. Cassie certainly did go too far this time.”

Elizabeth, however, pulled Charlie toward her and hissed, “Charlie Yard, if you say one more negative thing about our daughter, you better believe that I’ll kill you.”

Once again, Charlie sighed in resignation.

Their once warm and cozy home was now in shambles because of Elizabeth’s unreasonable behavior.

Elizabeth then pushed Charlie away and jabbed a finger at Oscar. “Oscar, I’m warning you, if Cassie comes out alive, you had better marry her no matter what. I only have one daughter, so I can’t let anything else happen to her. Though I may not be able to lay a finger on you if you choose not to marry her, I can’t say the same for your pregnant wife.”

In just a split second, Oscar’s expression became extremely dark, almost murderous.

“Are you threatening me, Mrs. Yard?”

Even so, Elizabeth spat back, “No, I’m not threatening you. As a mother, I am willing to do anything to keep my daughter safe and happy. I don’t care how cruel or inhumane it is. Cassie was willing to die for you, so I’m not going to let you get away with that.”

Charlie sighed and pulled Elizabeth away from Oscar. In a low voice, he told the woman, “Will you stop making a fuss?”