Ch. 221..230

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 221

Busy

On the other side, Oscar was truly wronged even though he hadn’t shown up in three days. After he left the neighborhood that Tiffany was living in, he received a call while driving. As it turned out, someone had leaked vital information from one of the company’s projects. That particular project was worth millions, and Clinton Corporations would suffer greatly if their competitors took advantage of it. The company’s share price would surely fall drastically.

Upon learning that, Oscar hurried over to the company and asked for an emergency meeting. That conference lasted for five hours. He never got to eat before he had to lead his secretary, his assistant, and the rest of the group to Pillere.

Oscar could’ve called Amelia before he got on the plane, but he figured that she was still angry. She probably won’t pick up. That thought prevented him from calling.

After being stuck on the plane for a few hours, Oscar and his men got out of the airport and into a private car immediately. They made a beeline to the company that was collaborating with Clinton Corporations.

Oscar met with a bunch of executives as soon as he set foot inside the building. That meeting lasted for a few hours, and it was already one in the morning when Oscar finally had the chance to rest.

His secretary bought some food and heated it up before handing it to Oscar. She said, “Mr. Clinton, you haven’t eaten all day. Here, have some food.”

Oscar accepted the food and asked, “What time is it?”

“It’s almost one in the morning, Mr. Clinton.”

Oscar looked out the window and enjoyed the view in Pillere. He murmured, “The view in Pillere is beautiful at night. Can you see it, Amelia? If you’d like, we can come here on vacation someday. What do you say?”

Unfortunately, Amelia wasn’t beside him, so no one answered his question.

The secretary seemed worried when she stared at Oscar. “Mr. Clinton, is there something on your mind?”

Oscar held the box of food and stared out the window without saying a word. His secretary thought that he would not answer and was about to leave him to his thoughts when he voiced up.

“Linda, what do you think about Amelia?”

Linda was momentarily taken aback. It took her some time to realize that Oscar was talking about his wife. That was the first time Oscar ever mentioned Amelia, so Linda was surprised.

“Mr. Clinton, I don’t really know much about your wife, so I can’t really say anything. But since you’ve asked, I’ll just share my limited thoughts and opinion. From the outside, Mrs. Clinton is definitely a beautiful woman. She is sexy, exudes an exquisite aura, and is downright stunning. Naturally, that is just my first impression of Mrs. Clinton. We interacted a few times after that, and I can tell that Mrs. Clinton’s beauty wasn’t just superficial. She is very nice and smart. She also knows to never go overboard when dealing with matters. In conclusion, the two of you are good together.”

Oscar couldn’t help grinning a little. He then asked, “Who one is better—Amelia or Cassie?”

Linda felt like she was cornered. She had been working with Oscar for years and had witnessed with her own eyes everything that happened between Oscar and Cassie. She knew too much, and that was why she understood that there were some things that she couldn’t say aloud.

Linda hesitated.

It seemed that Oscar had seen through that, so he granted her the permission to be honest.

“Linda, let’s pretend we’re just old friends and are chatting. You have been working for me for years, and in a way, you are my close friend. You are an excellent partner at work and a friend whom I can talk to.”

Linda sighed a breath of relief.

She licked her lip a little before she answered, “Mr. Clinton, I’ll just give a quick and simple evaluation. Please don’t take it to heart if I said anything wrong. Ms. Yard is from a rich family, so her aura is something that most women couldn’t compete against. However, I don’t think that she is the right match for you. This is just how I feel, though. She is too artistic, and her ideas are too wild. Perhaps she is different when she is with you, but I feel like she is too proud when she interacts with anyone who is not of her social status. She definitely behaves poorly and mocks those who are from a lower social class. Her views and ideas are different from yours, so I actually predicted that the two of you would not end up together.”

After saying her piece, Linda became scared, so she added, “I am just bullsh*tting, though, so please don’t take my words to heart, Mr. Clinton.”

Oscar simply waved and instructed, “You may leave. Have them postpone the meeting by an hour.”

“Understood.”

Linda nodded before she walked away in her high heels.

Oscar turned to the window again. It was almost dawn, so the entire city seemed especially quiet. Colorful neon lights illuminated Pillere and gave it a wonderful shade.

Unfortunately, the beautiful neon lights had always had a way of making one feel lonely.

Oscar got his phone out of his pocket and entered the passcode before he tapped into the photo album. He couldn’t help smiling as he stared at Amelia’s photo.

He chuckled and muttered, “You’ve won, woman. I am hopelessly and irrevocably in love with a woman named Amelia Winters. There was a time when you worried that I don’t love you, but now I have learned who my heart truly loved. When you got into that car accident and had to go for surgery, I swore that I will never let you go in this lifetime. I didn’t deal with Stephanie’s matter in the right way, and that broke your heart, so I’ll give you a few days to calm down. When I get back, I will go to you and take you home. I promise.”

Oscar only shoved a few mouthfuls of the food Linda gave him. It was exquisite and warm, so it didn’t taste bad, but Oscar didn’t have the appetite to eat it.

After his meal, Oscar took a quick nap on the sofa before he went for another meeting.

The graveness of the project information leak was worse than Oscar anticipated. They had endless meetings to discuss how to solve the matter with little time to sleep and eat. Whenever Oscar was free, he would call Olivia.

Oscar didn’t beat around the bush after the call got through. “Mom, have you gone to see how Amelia is doing?”

To his surprise, his dad was the one who picked up. Owen informed, “Oscar, your mom’s illness acted up again, and she is in the hospital now. She didn’t want to worry Amelia, so she didn’t tell Amelia about it. It’s been days since we visited Amelia as well. How are things on your end?”

Oscar frowned and shared everything honestly, “It’s not looking good, but I can handle it. What happened to mom? Isn’t she fine all this while?”

“Maybe Stephanie’s issue stressed her out too much. Olivia also felt guilty about how Amelia took the baby away, so she fell ill. You know how your mom is. She always seems so graceful and generous, but we all know that she tends to overthink things. The slightest mishap would get her to worry endlessly. Her heart has always been weak, so I have been spoiling her over the past few decades. Who would’ve thought that Stephanie would end up behaving so badly and stress Olivia out that much?”

“Is it serious?”

“She’s fine, but she needs a few days to recuperate.”

Oscar was still worried, so he offered, “James is in the country. How about I call him up and ask him to examine mom?”

“There’s no need for that. Robert treated your mom in person, and he said that her condition was caused by depression. All she needs is some rest and to stop overthinking. She will recover soon. Focus on your job. If it’s really that troublesome, I can send someone over to help you out.”

“I can handle everything here, dad. Don’t worry. All you need to do is look after mom,” promised Oscar before he nagged a little. He was about to hang up when Owen said, “I will take your mom over to visit Amelia and Tony once she feels better.”

“Thanks, dad.”

Oscar wanted to call Amelia after he hung up, but he thought of something, so he didn’t do so. Instead, he called Kurt.

“Boss,” greeted Kurt.

“Is Amelia okay?”

“Yes, she is fine, and so is the baby. I’m holding the little guy now, actually,” reported Kurt in a serious tone. It was as if he was the news anchor, reporting on the weather forecast.

Oscar frowned and asked, “Are you with Amelia now?”

“Yes, I am living in Tiffany’s place, and my primary job is to keep ma’am safe. Babysitting is my side job. In a way, I am a male nanny now.”

Oscar couldn’t help twitching his lips a little. He couldn’t even imagine what Kurt looked like as a nanny. A renowned bodyguard who is notorious for his kill count… That guy has turned into a nanny. D*mn, I can’t even imagine it.

“Where is Amelia?”

“She is doing some light exercise outdoor with Tiffany.”

Oscar hesitated for a moment before he asked, “Did she mention me over the past few days?”

Surprisingly, Kurt hesitated.

Oscar thought that the line might’ve been cut when he didn’t hear anything from Kurt.

“Kurt, are you still there?”

“Yes, boss,” answered Kurt. He carefully considered his words before he replied, “Ma’am had been playing with the baby and doing her recovery exercises these few days. Other than that, she had been sleeping and eating, so she didn’t really have the time to talk about you.”

Hearing that response got Oscar’s expression to turn gloomy instantly. He had been busy with work and went to countless meetings daily, so he was tempted to fall asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. Unfortunately, all he could think about was Amelia. That heartless woman remains cruel. All she does is eat, sleep, and play with our son. She didn’t even miss me a little. Ugh!

“Is there something else you’d like to ask, boss?”

“No. Take care of Amelia and remember that she is mine. Don’t get any funny ideas. You know how it’s like to cross me.”

“Understood.”

Oscar massaged his bloating head a little after he hung up. It had been three days since he last had a good night’s sleep. He had less than three hours to sleep every night, and his meetings lasted over ten hours during the day. That drained him physically and mentally, but his heart and mind remained alert. He kept thinking about a certain someone, even when he was lying on the bed.

Someone knocked on the door to the office from the other side, so Oscar adjusted his expression before ordering, “Come in.”

Linda entered with a bunch of documents and placed them in front of Oscar before she reported, “Mr. Clinton, these are the files you requested. After struggling for the past few days, our efforts finally bore fruit. The company’s share prices are rising slowly but surely. It shouldn’t be long before we make up for the loss incurred due to the information leakage.”

Oscar scanned the summary of the accounts before he instructed, “Book a flight ticket for me once everything is settled. You and the others are to stay and deal with the matter before returning.”

“Understood.”

At first, Oscar estimated that he could solve everything in five days, but things were way trickier than he anticipated. Linda reported that the share price was slowly rising back, but on the very next day, they learned that some malicious people had taken advantage of the leakage. Those people spread countless rumors and got the share prices to fall once more. That forced Oscar and the other executives to conduct emergency meetings again. They became busy bees, and in the end, it took Oscar two weeks before he could leave Pillere with his team.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 222

Explaining Himself

As soon as Oscar’s plane touched down, he hopped into the car and asked the chauffeur to take him to the neighborhood where Tiffany was staying.

He saw Tiffany holding a bag of trash and throwing it away when he got out of the car. Oscar was quick and ran a little to reach Tiffany. She saw him there, but her smile turned upside down immediately after. She didn’t even bother looking at him before she turned around and walked in the other direction.

Oscar reached out and grabbed her before getting right to the point. He asked, “Tiffany, where is Amelia?”

Tiffany glared over icily. “Look who’s here. It’s Mr. Clinton. I was wondering who it was. So, you still care about Amelia, huh?”

Oscar frowned and replied, “Amelia is my wife. Why would I not care about her? Also, why didn’t she pick up my calls?”

Tiffany had a skin-deep grin on before she taunted, “Mr. Clinton, are you sure you called her?”

Oscar frowned so much that he could catch a fly between his brows.

He knew that there had to be some misunderstandings.

“I called Amelia countless times, but she never picked up. At first, I wanted to fly back immediately, but I needed to stay overseas and manage the company. I can’t let all the employees of Clinton Corporations lose their jobs and go hungry over my personal issues,” explained Oscar with a grouchy expression.

Tiffany seemed to have realized that there was a misunderstanding.

She took a deep breath and calmed down before complaining, “What the hell is that supposed to mean, Mr. Clinton? You were overseas? What happened to Clinton Corporations? Why haven’t any of the Clintons come to visit Amelia and Tony over the past two weeks? Every single one of you claimed that she is a member of your family and that Tony is your heir. Yet, you guys heartlessly ignored her after she left the Clintons’ family home. Seriously, are you guys heartless? Your baby sister almost killed Amelia and her baby, and none of you bothered to do anything about it. How can she not feel abandoned under those circumstances?”

Oscar frowned and answered, “I didn’t abandon Amelia. I just got back from Pillere and had my people drive me directly from the airport. Also, I kept calling Amelia, but she never picked up. I ended up calling Kurt, and he said that she was okay. I sent someone else over to check up on her as well, and they claimed that she was fine as well. That was the only reason why I could focus on my work these past two weeks.”

Tiffany stared at him in suspicion. “Really?”

“Why would I lie to you?” demanded Oscar.

Tiffany glared over angrily before she replied, “Fine, I will trust you this one time. All that matters is whether Amelia will forgive you. You lost touch over the past two weeks, and that knucklehead Kurt never mentioned anything about you calling. From our perspective, you went missing for two weeks, and Amelia couldn’t eat well or sleep right because of that. She lost so much weight and her illness acted up. I accompanied her to the hospital two days ago, and the doctor said that she has depression. If this goes on, her body will not be able to heal well.”

Oscar was heartbroken as he asked, “Is she upstairs now?”

Tiffany shook her head.

“I asked someone to accompany her to the supermarket. They will probably be back soon,” answered Tiffany. She glared at Oscar in displeasure before complaining, “Oscar Clinton, please don’t go missing if you really care about Amelia. She only left the family home in a fit of anger, and that was only because you people condoned that murderer, Stephanie. All she wanted was a heartfelt apology from you guys. Seriously, you Clintons are too much. It’s been two weeks, but you never bothered calling or stopping by to visit Amelia or Tony. It was as if you guys fell off the face of the Earth, and you acted as if Amelia turned into a nobody once she left the compound. I knew it. Your entire family is just a bunch of rich brats who grew up with a silver spoon. I am so done with your kind.”

Oscar remained quiet.

Still, Tiffany was angry.

She warned, “Oscar Clinton, don’t blame me for being straightforward and harsh, but Amelia is a great woman, and she loves you. Please don’t take advantage of that love and hurt her recklessly. You were gone for two weeks, and she hadn’t been able to sleep or eat well this entire time. I would go at you with a blade if that act wouldn’t break her heart. Seriously, karma will come for you if you keep hurting her like this. The day will come when she falls out of love with you, and you will learn that what you lost is unconditional love. You would better buck up, or you will regret it.”

All Tiffany wanted was for Oscar to pay more attention to Amelia. He shouldn’t make this marriage look like a game to him.

Oscar frowned and was deep in thoughts.

“I will talk to Amelia in person about this, and I will explain everything,” promised Oscar in his deep voice.

Tiffany crossed her arms and gestured with her lips before saying, “The person you want to talk to is right behind you, so you better explain yourself well.”

Oscar turned around and saw that Amelia was heading over with a middle-aged woman.

At first, the duo was chatting away cheerfully, but Amelia’s smile slowly faltered when she saw Oscar there. She stopped walking when she was about three meters away from him.

Oscar approached Amelia. The middle-aged woman had no idea who he was, so she was quick to shield Amelia behind her. She asked, “Who are you?”

Oscar didn’t bother looking at that woman. His anxious gaze was stuck on Amelia, who stood behind that woman.

“Amelia,” murmured Oscar in a loving tone.

Amelia stared at him with a complex glow in her eyes. She told the middle-aged woman, “He is my husband. Please go ahead without me.”

The middle-aged woman nodded before she picked up the bags and left.

Oscar walked toward Amelia, but she instinctively backed away.

Seeing her reaction got Oscar’s gaze to take a sharp turn.

“Mr. Clinton finally shows up. Have you finally decided to get a divorce?” After two whole weeks of emotional turmoil, Amelia had gone from being disappointed, to heartbroken and now, she couldn’t care less anymore. She would be heartbroken if Oscar wanted a divorce, but she wouldn’t shamelessly hang on to a dead marriage either. She had loved him unconditionally for five years. If that wasn’t enough to get him to care, even a little, then there was nothing else she could do.

Oscar’s expression soured upon hearing that.

He walked over and pulled Amelia into his arms before complaining, “Who the hell said that I want a divorce? You are my wife! Who do you plan on remarrying if we get a divorce? I forbid you from even thinking about.”

Amelia rested in his arms and relaxed in that familiar embrace and unique scent. She couldn’t help tearing up a little, but she started struggling at the very next second. To her surprise, Oscar locked her in his arms.

He whispered into her ears, “I love you, Amelia. I kept calling you over the past two weeks, but you never picked up. I called Tiffany, too, but she didn’t pick up either, so I dialed Kurt’s number. He finally picked up and told me that you are fine. I didn’t mean to wait so long, but something happened to Clinton Corporations on the day you ran away from home. Someone leaked crucial information about a corporate collaboration and caused the share prices to drop drastically. My business partner was in Pillere, so I had to fly over. The only things I did over these past two weeks are hosting emergency meetings and missing you. I miss you so much. I was worried that you won’t be able to take care of Tony and was terrified that you aren’t healing well. Also, I worried that you’d overthink when I don’t show up, and I am especially terrified of the idea that you may not love me anymore. All that anxiety had caused me to suffer from insomnia.”

Slowly, Amelia stopped struggling. She tilted her head up and looked at Oscar. That was when she realized that he had lost a lot of weight, and his cheeks looked a little sunken. His beard was growing out as well, and those beautiful eyes had turned bloodshot. At that moment, Oscar was no longer the handsome man. He was a shadow of his former self and looked a little disheveled.

Amelia’s eyes shone with heartbreak. She reached out to caress Oscar’s face and asked, “Why didn’t you tell me that the company was in hot waters?”

Oscar held her hand and interlaced his fingers with hers before he explained, “You haven’t recovered yet, so I didn’t want to worry you.”

“I was worried because you disappeared for two weeks without telling me anything. I thought you didn’t want to be with me anymore because you found me to be too childish. I was emotionally tormented, worrying that you would have the divorce papers with you when you finally showed up. We talked about divorce and discussed the division of assets earlier, but that was when you were in love with someone else. I have to accept that arrangement, even if I didn’t want to. Things have since changed. You have just told me that you love me, and I don’t think I can handle it if you suddenly ask for a divorce like that. It’s been days since I last slept well.”

Oscar kissed the back of her hand with a broken heart and apologized, “That is all my fault. Why would you think that I’d want a divorce, though? You are the woman I love, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. We have our entire lives ahead of us, so you’re not allowed to think like that anymore, okay?”

Amelia nodded. She seemed sad about how much weight Oscar had lost, so she asked, “You seem to have lost a lot of weight. Did you not eat well?”

Oscar shrugged nonchalantly and replied, “It’s nothing.”

He thought about it for a while before he added, “I explained why I didn’t show up over the past two weeks, but you should know that there is a reason why my parents never visited. Mom’s illness acted up again, and she was hospitalized. She didn’t want you to worry, so she didn’t tell you about it. Please don’t hold it against them for not visiting.”

Amelia looked worried. She quickly asked, “Oh dear! How did that happen? Isn’t she fine all this while? Why didn’t you tell me about it? I am her daughter-in-law, so how can I not be there when she is sick? Others will assume that there is a conflict between us. No, that won’t do. I’ll go pack my things now, and we’ll head home right away.”

Oscar stopped the anxious Amelia and pulled her into his arms. He rested his forehead on hers and replied in an exasperated tone, “I knew that you would react this way. That’s why I didn’t tell you. You haven’t fully recovered yet, and the doctor said that you can’t get too agitated.”

Amelia refuted, “You shouldn’t keep things from me even if I have not recovered. I was angry at Mom for shielding your sister, but that is not an excuse to be disrespectful to my elderly. Mom is sick. It’s only right that, as her daughter-in-law, I go back and take care of her.”

Oscar felt warm. I knew I made the right decision. My wife is still as kind and as caring as she has always been. I was blind those five years and neglected her. We ended up wasting so much time.

What can I do to make up for all the years I’ve neglected you?

Oscar was about to talk to Amelia when a woman’s voice interrupted them. The woman cleared her throat and said, “Guys, you’re in public space, so maybe you should go somewhere else before you get all lovey-dovey? The ones who use this space are just mere mortal, and we can’t withstand the suffocating love bubbles you throw at us.”

Amelia got out of Oscar’s arms. She seemed a little embarrassed when she turned to Tiffany, who had her arms crossed and was by the entrance. Amelia had just realized that she and Oscar had put on a dramatic show. Their audience included Tiffany and two guards, who were practically eating popcorn while watching the show.

Amelia couldn’t help blushing. She rolled her eyes at Tiffany. Holding Oscar’s hand, Amelia said, “Let’s go.”

Oscar let her hold his hand and lead him in. Tiffany, on the other hand, was teasing mercilessly and laughing aloud at the two of them.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 223

Visiting

Olivia’s illness prompted Amelia to let go of all the grudge and anger she held earlier. The latter asked Tiffany to babysit Tony, then got into Oscar’s car to head over to the hospital. She even bought tons of fruits and supplements on the way over.

Even when they were in the car, Amelia asked nervously, “Oscar, do you think mom will be mad at me for being immature and not taking care of her when she is sick?”

Oscar freed up one hand to interlace his fingers with hers. “Don’t worry. Mom has always liked you, and the only reason her illness acted up is that she feels like she wronged you. She will let go of that guilt once you visit her, and I’m sure she will recover immediately after.”

Amelia was still nervous anyway. She was worried that Olivia would be mad at her for leaving with Tony. Regardless of the situation, Olivia was her mother-in-law, and Amelia couldn’t refute even if Olivia insisted on blaming her.

Oscar took another look at Amelia before commenting, “You and mom really are alike. Like you, she worried that you would blame her for Stephanie’s matter. Overthinking is the reason she got ill again. Her heart has always been weak, and Mr. Lancester had warned her multiple times that she shouldn’t get agitated or overthink things. Stephanie’s act truly infuriated mom this time, and I’m sure mom will recover faster once you visit her. Your visit will surely lift her mood.”

Amelia forced herself to grin a little.

“Are you feeling better?”

Amelia changed the topic and asked, “You haven’t slept well in days, Oscar. Are you sure you’re okay? Should I drive instead?”

Oscar couldn’t help grinning at that. He stared at Amelia and teased, “Oh, you’re not calling me Mr. Clinton anymore? You have no idea how heartbroken I was that day when you took Tony away and called me Mr. Clinton. At the time, I wondered if you had truly decided to leave me. Now that I hear you calling my name again, I realized that my name is actually pleasing to the ears!”

Amelia couldn’t resist rolling her eyes at him. She realized that after they professed their love to one another, Oscar’s distant style was up and gone. He became talkative and loved teasing her. It was as if someone had unlocked the hidden feature of his tongue, and his words just flew out like bullets in a machine gun.

“Mr. Clinton, where is that cool style you used to have?”

Oscar put on a straight face and asked, “Do you not like the change?”

Change… That word hit a bull’s eyes in Amelia’s heart. She instinctively turned to Oscar, and her lips curved into a smile.

She later tilted her head down a little to hide that smile. Her voice was a little annoyed when she reminded, “Oscar, in the future, you must inform me beforehand no matter when you go, even if we are having a fight. At least send me a text to tell me that. I don’t want to have to ask others before I get to contact you or learn about your whereabouts.”

Oscar took that seriously. He nodded and promised, “Okay. Also, I will have my people investigate why you can’t receive my calls when I was overseas.”

Amelia nodded slightly.

Oscar squeezed her hand and said, “Something like this will never happen again.”

Amelia tilted her head down, but her lips were smiling. She looked happy and contented.

Oscar kept his eyes on the road. Reluctantly, he parted his lips to speak. “Amelia, the thing about Stephanie…”

The smile on Amelia’s lips slowly faltered.

“When I first learned that she is the mastermind behind your accident, I thought about having her assassinated. It’s just that she is my sister, and we have loved each other for over twenty years. Moreover, she is our parents’ heart and soul. I simply couldn’t get myself to hurt her. That was why I made things clear with her and cut her off. In a way, I had disowned her as my sister. I’m not sharing all this to excuse myself for my mistake. I just want you to know how much you mean to me.”

Amelia couldn’t help tearing up a little. Her tears slipped out of her eyes uncontrollably, and she secretly wiped them away with her hand.

She wasn’t crying because she was sad. Those were tears of joy because she felt like those were the most romantic words she had ever heard.

“Thank you, Oscar.” Thank you for admitting that you love me, and thank you for saying that you care more about me than you do your sister. Also, thank you for telling me that I am no longer an unimportant being in your life.

Oscar softly caressed Amelia’s hand.

The two of them remained all lovey-dovey inside the car, and the journey that would normally take thirty minutes ended up taking an hour. In Oscar’s defense, he simply wanted to spend a little more time with Amelia, for he had not seen her in two weeks. Hearing her sweet voice made him feel like his heart was about to melt.

He eventually found a parking spot and parked the car before he got the gifts they got for his mother out of the car. With the gifts in one hand and Amelia’s hand in his other hand, he asked sweetly, “Amelia, are you still feeling any pain anywhere?”

“I’m fine. Dr. Kane said that my recovery is actually much faster than the average patient. He even claimed that I might be the only one who could get off the bed within two months,” replied Amelia in a nonchalant tone. The truth was that she knew all too well that her body wasn’t actually healing well. There were many times when her body ached all over as she slept at night, and her vision often turned blurry with no prior warning. She assumed those were just temporary issues caused by the accident, so she didn’t pay much attention to it.

Oscar and Amelia got into the elevator, and while inside, Amelia couldn’t help giggling and commenting, “Why are we always in Principal General Hospital? For these past two months at least, I think we’ve spent more time in this hospital than we do in our apartment.”

Oscar was holding Amelia’s hand when he acted out of character by joking, “Just pretend we are here on a vacation, then.”

Amelia rolled her eyes at him. I don’t think anyone would ever regard a hospital as a tourist attraction.

Still, she was smart and didn’t reply to him.

Oscar realized just how stupid his joke was.

He licked his lips a little before he tightened his hold on her hand. That surprised Amelia and prompted her to turn to him. She saw how his ears were red from embarrassment, and that got her to laugh aloud.

Oscar turned to her and saw her laughing. He couldn’t help but smile at that.

“You…” complained Oscar in exasperation. His smile, however, suggested that he was happy and in love.

The two of them had just gotten out of the elevator when they saw Owen and Olivia walking sweetly together. Without the sparkly jewelry and branded clothing, the two of them seemed like an ordinary couple. Everyone would be jealous of the way Owen cared for Olivia.

Even in that state, no one would deny that Owen was a very successful man. He exuded the regal aura of a businessman, and despite being in his sixties, he was still handsome. It was likely that he could still flirt with women in their twenties and thirties, and it was possible that they would be willing to be his girlfriend. That was predictable because his aesthetic beauty and wealth were something many women craved. Hence, many were envious when they saw him being that sweet and caring toward Olivia. It was as if they were still in their honeymoon period.

Amelia was one of those envious women.

She had always been envious of how her in-laws were happy and in love, even after all those years. They were so in sync that no one could break them apart.

In her hospital gown, Olivia looked less regal than her usual self. The outfit also hid away parts of her incredible aura. Still, she looked kind and generous.

“Mom,” greeted Amelia in an embarrassed yet respectful voice.

Olivia was delighted to see Amelia there. The former held Owen’s hand and head over to the latter quickly. Olivia held Amelia’s hand and asked, “Amelia, what brings you here?”

Amelia replied apologetically, “Oscar told me about your illness as soon as he got back from Pillere. I’m so sorry, Mom, for not visiting you sooner. I hope you’re not mad at me for it.”

Olivia shook her head and replied, “Silly girl, why would I be mad at you? I didn’t want you to worry, and that is the only reason I banned Owen from telling you anything. Besides, we’ve already hired so many maids to tend to the family home, so it’s no hassle to send someone over to take care of me. You, on the other hand, must have had it rough. It must be tiring to take care of Tony all by yourself. How are you?”

Amelia’s felt warm and fuzzy over Olivia’s remarks. It was unlikely for her to meet another mother-in-law like Olivia anywhere else. She is so understanding and lovely. I can’t bring myself to be mad at her even if I want to.

“You’re not mad at me anymore?” asked Olivia as she tapped softly on the back of Amelia’s hand.

Amelia tilted her head down and confessed, “I was a little angry at the time, but I had time to think things through these past two weeks. I understand that it was difficult for you as well, so I’m no longer mad.”

Olivia was delighted to hear that.

At that moment, Owen suggested, “Let’s talk inside.”

All four of them went into the room. Amelia got two apples out of the bag and offered, “Mom, let me peel an apple for you.”

Olivia turned to Oscar and instructed, “Let Oscar do it.”

Oscar took over peeling the apple. Olivia, on the other hand, led Amelia to sit down beside her. The former asked eagerly, “How are you feeling now? Are you recovering well? Tony is almost two months old. Is he causing a racket for you?”

“Oscar assigned a bodyguard for me, and Tony had taken a liking to the bodyguard. The baby would stop crying whenever that bodyguard carries him, and Tony seems a little attached to him,” replied Amelia honestly.

“A bodyguard? What is his name?”

“It’s Kurt, Mom. Do you know him?”

A revelation hit Olivia as she blurted, “He has been with Oscar for years. Back then, Owen was worried that his booming business would cause others to go after Oscar, so Owen got over ten bodyguards to protect Oscar. Every single one of them was a top-notch fighter, but Kurt was the one who impressed me most. He was only about fifteen years old, but his skills were so incredible that my jaw dropped. He could even walk on the wall! I am glad that he has been with Oscar for so many years, and he is the reason I don’t worry as much about Oscar. I never thought that Oscar would assign him to protect you. That proves just how much Oscar truly cares about you.”

Amelia didn’t know how strong and important Kurt was until that very moment.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 224

The Risk Of Pathological Changes

Olivia continued, “All about Kurt is good, except he is as quiet as a mouse and sometimes barely speaks for the whole day. Even so, he is undoubtedly a faithful person who will never betray you. Since he has been by Oscar’s side for more than ten years, it implies that he’s trustworthy, and you can count on him.”

In an instant, Amelia started to feel tense. “Mom, since Kurt has been by Oscar’s side all these years, I feel it’s better to let him remain by his side”

“I’m worried that you will be at risk again after what happened lately. Thus, it’s better to let him stay by your side instead, to secure your safety. Anyway, I don’t think it’s enough to have one bodyguard by your side. How about I request your dad to assign two more bodyguards for you?” Olivia suggested eagerly.

Amelia shook her head and tried to convince her, “Mom, it’s alright. After all, I’m always at home and seldom step out. Thus, it will be really boring for them to be by my side all the time. Oh! they will only end up watching paint dry. What a pity!”

Olivia could not help but feel amused and burst into laughter.

Right that instant, Oscar approached them with a plate of cut apples. He raised his brows and asked inquisitively, “Mom, what did Amelia tell you? You are laughing to tears!”

Olivia cupped her mouth to stifle her laughter before replying casually, “It’s just a joke. By the way, Oscar, you assigned Kurt to protect Amelia, didn’t you?”

Oscar nodded at her precise guess.

Olivia smiled and complimented, “You’ve made the right decision. Ah! I should have thought about this earlier. Kurt is mature and reliable. He has been by your side all these years and is able to act swiftly during emergencies. Thus, I’m relieved to have him by Amelia’s side.”

Oscar gave Olivia and Amelia a slice of apple each and switched the topic. “Mom, how are you feeling now? If I’m not mistaken, Dad mentioned that you should be discharged after a few days. Why are you still here after two weeks?”

“It’s nothing serious. But both your dad and Robert insist that I should stay here longer for monitoring. Moreover, they are worried that I can’t take it if anything triggers my agitation again. Anyway, they are overreacting. Robert just told me that I will be discharged two days later.” Olivia smiled placidly.

Upon hearing her words, Amelia apologized to her guiltily, “Mom, I’m sorry. It’s all because of my willfulness”

“Don’t blame yourself. After leading a cozy lifestyle and being pampered under a stress-free environment all these years, I’m just too vulnerable. On top of that, I always tend to forget that I’m already an old lady and shouldn’t be overreactive,” Olivia consoled her jokingly.

She paused and continued, “Oscar, get your dad to double confirm with Robert whether I can be discharged. I’m getting bored staying here all this while. My goodness! Do you know how many calls we have received from friends and relatives?All of them can’t wait to drop by and visit me. Fortunately, I asked your dad not to let any of them come. If not, I bet the wall of this room will collapse if all of them were here!

”

This round, Olivia’s sense of humor caused Amelia to burst into giggles.

After a while, Oscar left the ward with Owen. While in the car, he took the opportunity to brief Owen on his findings regarding the issue of the previous contract leakage. “Dad, I have assigned people to investigate the contract leakage issue, and the clues lead to Grand Vision Corporation, one of our greatest competitors throughout these years. I had actually tried to investigate the corporation previously, yet I could hardly obtain any information about them. Somehow, I have a feeling that they have something to do with the contract leakage. Hence, I assigned people to have a thorough investigation on them again these few days. To our surprise, we find out that the Adertons is one of their major shareholders.”

In a split second, Owen wore a serious face as he enunciated, “The Adertons?” He had come across the family name before. It was a prestigious family overseas which was widely involved in various fields, such as cosmetics, paper-making, entertainment, film and television, electronic products as well as others. They had franchises worldwide, yet there was none in Chanaea so far. Are they intending to set up a franchise in Chanaea by striking against Clinton Corporations?

Owen’s face turned grim as his mind drifted into contemplation.

Even if Grand Vision Corporation was developing significantly within these few years, it was almost impossible for them to penetrate the domestic market under the dominance of the fabled Clinton Corporations. Grand Vision Corporation should have thought twice before they leaped if they intended to strengthen their business reputation. They should establish a collaborative relationship with Clinton Corporations instead of landing themselves in deep water by provoking the leading corporation. Once Clinton Corporation had dirt on them, they would surely retaliate with a deadly strike, resulting in a perfect storm for Grand Vision Corporation. In other words, no matter how powerful and deep-pocketed the Adertons were, they would never be comparable to such a prestigious and majestic pioneer in the domestic market.

Owen knitted his brows and asked doubtfully, “Have you found out why they are provoking Clinton Corporations? After all, Clinton Corporations has never really crossed paths with them before. By right, they should not do so recklessly.”

“June turns out to be the heir of The Adertons. What’s more, Cassie was ever in a relationship with him when she was still in Erihal. She requested to break up with him just a few days before she was back in Chanaea. Unexpectedly, he followed her back all the way from Erihal,” Oscar explained.

Owen glanced subtly at Oscar, and was surprised at his nonchalance. He asked tactfully, “Do you mean he is avenging Cassie by provoking you?”

Oscar nodded and replied, “There’s a possibility for this.”

Owen’s frown deepened into a scowl. “If this guy by the name of June acted impulsively just because of a woman, there’s nothing to fear about him. I bet he’s just a good-for-nothing and impetuous fellow. Sooner a later, he will become the culprit who causes the fall of such a prominent family.”

Nonetheless, Oscar shook his head and said, “Dad, I don’t think so. My gut instinct told me that he is trying to verify if Clinton Corporations is as mighty as described by others. Anyway, I’m planning to pay him back in his coin by assigning people to gather all the information about Grand Vision Corporation. By then, they will have a great surprise from me and be regretful of thinking too highly of themselves. They should not have underestimated Clinton Corporations, as it did not emerge as the leading corporation in Chanaea out of the blue.”

Owen patted him on the shoulder with relief. “Well said! Oscar, you are competent and can take charge of the whole Clinton Corporations without me now. In fact, I have never doubted your capability. Anyway, it is undeniable that I had made a wrong judgment previously. I used to think that Cassie is the most ideal candidate as your spouse. It is out of my expectation that she is not as innocent as she seems to be. Since we are close friends with the Yards, I was convinced that she was a virtuous young lady. Yet, I was speechless the moment I knew about how she had treated you five years ago. I shouldn’t have judged the book by its cover. Your mom is apparently more observant and has a sharper sense than me on this.”

Oscar remained silent as a wave of mixed emotions welled up from within him.

Owen patted his shoulder again and added, “I admit that I had a prejudice against Amelia previously. Nevertheless, I see things differently now ever since my adorable grandson was born. I sense that you have fallen for her as well. On top of that, she is a thoughtful and filial daughter-in-law. For certain people, it might be just wishful thinking to come across the love of their life. You are really blessed to have such a loving wife. Thus, I hope you will be firm from now onwards, cherish her and treat her well. I still look forward to the arrival of my second grandchild.”

Oscar’s lips curved into a smile. Owen’s words really brightened up his day.

Later, both of them headed for Robert’s office together. The latter welcomed them with open arms as usual. He patted Oscar’s arm and asked in great concern, “I heard from your dad that you went to Pillere earlier to settle some issues for the company. You must be really tied up all this while. Is everything settled and on the right track now?”

Oscar nodded and replied courteously, “Mr. Lancester, thanks for your concern. You are right, I’m really busy lately. Even so, I’m thankful that the issues are resolved.”

“I’m glad to hear that. Take a seat.” Robert gestured to them and pointed at the sofa next to him.

After all of them were seated on the sofa, Robert said solemnly, “I was actually planning to ask you to come over. There are things that I need to tell you in advance. Olivia’s current condition is quite worrying. I hope you will be prepared for the worst.”

Owen and Oscar’s hearts thumped in an instant. At the peak of anxiety, they both had their hands interlocked simultaneously. Owen pursed his lips and could not utter any words.

After quite a while, he asked apprehensively, “Robert, what’s the matter with Olivia? You mentioned earlier that her condition is fine, didn’t you?”

Robert waved and tried to calm Owen down. “Owen, cool down. I just want you to be prepared emotionally. But in actual fact, the condition is not as bad as how you think.”

Owen’s anxiety was not eased by his words at all. “Robert, just be frank with us on her condition. We are getting tenser when you are beating around the bush.”

Robert cleared his throat and said, “We spotted a small area of black dots on Olivia’s heart.”

Both Owen and Oscar’s faces fell upon hearing his words.

“Robert, what do you mean?” Owen’s voice started to quiver.

“Calm down first. At the moment, we are still uncertain if these black dots will spread. If they spread, it might cause heart failure. I’m sure you know what heart failure is, right? Fortunately, we managed to trace it at an early stage. As long as she undergoes the treatment earlier, there is a high percentage of about ninety-five percent that it can be cured. These are so-called the worst scenario that I foresee. Anyway, we can’t jump into a conclusion now before her medical report is out.”

“Robert, Olivia has been hospitalized for half a month; yet, you are still telling me that we are pending her medical report? You mentioned before that there is nothing wrong with her health, didn’t you?”

Robert waved his hands again and tried to calm Owen down. “Owen, stay calm. Nobody can predict Olivia’s condition now. Even so, I’m convinced that there is a high possibility to get it cured since we discover about it at an early stage. Don’t worry and stay hopeful. Olivia is also my old friend. No matter what, I will leave no stones unturned to cure her.”

Upon hearing his words, Owen managed to cool his head off a bit.

“Robert, no matter what, please keep it from Olivia when the medical report is out. You know her. She’s the typical type of demure and dignified woman. Thus, I’m worried that she can’t take it and will have an emotional breakdown.” Owen furrowed his brows again.

Robert pondered for a while and commented, “No matter what, I think it’s better not to keep mum from her. After all, she’s already over sixty years old and has gone through ups and downs in life. I’m sure she has stronger resilience than how we think and can accept anything. Trust me. She will be able to cope with it.”

Owen did not utter any words. By the time he left Robert’s room with Oscar, there was still not the slightest bit of change in his countenance.

“Dad, try to cheer up. If not, Mom will surely be worried and start to make wild guesses again.” Oscar tried to coax him.

Owen let out a deep sigh; yet, he remained silent. Pin-drop silence ensued in the car on their way back to the hospital.

Upon entering the ward, Owen patted his cheeks and reminded himself to put on a cheerful smile. He tried his best to bottle up the feelings to himself.

Once they entered the ward, Olivia asked curiously, “What took both of you such a long time?”

Owen smiled and replied gently, “Robert bought a new set of chess and insisted on having a game with me.”

Olivia asked jokingly, “Could it be there’s something wrong with me?”

“What are you talking about? You are as fit as a fiddle now,” Owen refuted.

Amelia also chimed in, “Mom, I’m sure that you are going to live a long and prosperous life till Tony grows up. Then, you have to help assess his future wife as well. Ah! I’d better urge Tony to get married earlier, so you get to hold your great-grandchild!”

Olivia burst out laughing heartily at her words.

“Still, Amelia is the one who knows me the best. I’m never short of anything, and I’m blessed for leading a prosperous life all these years. By right, I shouldn’t be feeling wistful. Even so, I tend to have wishful thinking ever since Tony was born. I yearn to live a longer life, so I’m able to see him grow up, get married, and have his own child. By then, I won’t request anything else as my life ends on a happy note.”

Amelia smiled as she buoyed Olivia up with confidence. “Mom, I believe you will!”

In the meantime, both Owen and Oscar were feeling down in the dumps.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 225

Dispelling Former Hatred

Olivia’s health screening turned out fine. Although there were black spots on her heart, it was not malignant and would not spread. She had a weak heart since young and would feel pain whenever she was too agitated. Furthermore, Stephanie angered her recently and made her worry. As a result, her health worsened. Therefore, Robert advised her to rest and avoid stress.

Owen nodded in response to the advice.

After that, Robert turned to Amelia and said, “Amelia, your injuries have recovered, but if you noticed anything unusual about your sight, you must come back for a check-up. Don’t ignore it, okay?”

Amelia looked at Robert with a puzzled expression. Recently, her eyesight sometimes turned blurry for a moment and returned to normal soon after. She didn’t think much about it and only remembered now after hearing Robert’s advice.

It turned out that the accident might have affected her eyesight.

“Mr. Lancester, is something wrong with my eyesight?” Amelia asked.

Robert smiled and said, “There’s no problem, Amelia. Don’t worry about it. I’m just concerned whether you have any after-effects from the accident. That’s why I ask you to take note if there’s anything.”

Amelia was still a little worried.

Oscar wrapped his arm around her and said, “Mr. Lancester, I will take note of that and bring her back for a check-up.”

Robert smiled and said, “It’s wonderful that Amelia can recover in such a short time. However, she mustn’t do any heavy work. Otherwise, her body could not take it”

“Don’t worry, Mr. Lancester. We have maids at home. She will never have to lift a finger,” Oscar said.

After exchanging a few more words, Oscar brought Amelia, Olivia, and Owen to the car.

Olivia asked the chauffeur to bring them to Tiffany’s neighborhood.

On the way, Amelia called Tiffany so that she had time to prepare dinner.

After hanging up, Olivia said, “There’s no need to trouble Tiffany. You have troubled her enough by staying at her place. Although you are good friends, it’s not good to bother her too much”

Amelia smiled and said, “Mom, it’s all right. Tiff and I have been friends for many years. If I didn’t marry Oscar, we would have been living together. Furthermore, she loves Tony very much and likes to carry him and he also gets along with her. She and Kurt always hug and play with him. I, on the other hand, rarely get to hug my child.”

Olivia said pensively, “I haven’t seen Tony for half a month. I wonder if he can recognize me.”

“Mom, you love him so much. There’s no way that he can’t recognize you,” Amelia said.

The mood in the car was warm and peaceful.

Half an hour later, the car arrived at Tiffany’s neighborhood.

Before getting out of the car, Olivia said, “Norton, you can drive the car back. I heard that your son caught pneumonia. You can have a five-day leave to go home and spend time with him.”

Norton said gratefully, “Mrs. Clinton, thank you.”

“Don’t worry about it. You’ve worked for our family for many years and served us well. In the future, you should let me or the butler know if you have any difficulties. We can understand,” Olivia said.

Norton thanked her again.

Amelia held Olivia’s arm and got out of the car. Then, the four of them took the lift upstairs. However, before they even pressed the doorbell, Tiffany opened the door. She curtsied and said mischievously, “Welcome, Your Majesty.”

Olivia could not help herself but laugh.

Tiffany laughed too and hugged Olivia warmly. “Mrs. Clinton, I came up with this to welcome you. Do you like it?”

Mrs. Clinton was amused and liked Tiffany even more.

Even though Stephanie caused strife between them half a year ago, Tiffany did not take it to heart. She was rather mature and understanding.

“Tiffany, thank you,” Olivia said.

Tiffany held Olivia’s hand, led her in, and said, “Mr. and Mrs. Clinton, please come in. When Amelia called, I had just come back from grocery shopping. Later, Martha and I will cook dinner. I assure you that dinner will be ready in a couple of hours.”

Olivia smiled and said, “Take your time. It’s only 5 p.m. I’ll go and see Tony.”

Kurt came out with Anthony in his arms. Oscar’s mouth twitched unwittingly upon Kurt’s gentle demeanor. It was completely different from his past image.

“Mr. Clinton, Mrs. Clinton, Boss,” Kurt greeted with a serious expression.

Tiffany pointed at Kurt and said, “Mrs. Clinton, this straight-laced man is the bodyguard Oscar assigned to protect Amelia. Do you know about this?”

Olivia laughed at Tiffany’s introduction.

Tiffany then received Anthony from Kurt and passed him to Olivia.

Olivia felt her heart melting as she saw Anthony looking at her with his large round eyes.

“Tony, my darling grandson. I’m your grandmother. Do you remember me?” Olivia hugged Anthony and refused to let him go. Owen also stood closer and looked at him lovingly. Oscar was in Pillere for half a month and missed Anthony too. After all, Anthony was his first child. During Amelia’s hospitalization, he was unable to spend much time with Anthony. Other than taking care of Amelia, he had to deal with urgent documents. Anthony was always asleep by the time Oscar returned home to see him.

Therefore, Oscar also stood closer to look at Anthony. “Mom, let me hug him for a while.”

Olivia gladly passed Anthony to him. Initially, Oscar was a little at a loss about what to do. Still, he hugged him securely. Unfortunately, Anthony was uncooperative and began to cry in his arms.

Oscar looked at Amelia helplessly. Meanwhile, Olivia’s heart ached to see Anthony cry, so she quickly took him from Oscar. However, Anthony continued to cry in her arms. Olivia was a little flustered and kept cooing at him to calm him.

Nevertheless, Anthony kept crying. He was a docile newborn half a month ago. But now, Anthony would wail non-stop. He would start crying whenever something did not go his way and when someone unfamiliar hugged him.

Olivia asked in distress, “Is he hungry?”

Tiffany turned to Kurt and said, “Kurt, can you come over. I’ll leave Tony to you.”

Kurt went to Olivia and said, “Mrs. Clinton, please give him to me.”

Olivia had no choice but to hand Anthony over to Kurt.

Then, a miracle happened. The moment Kurt carried Anthony, he stopped crying. Both Olivia and Oscar were a little jealous of Kurt.

Oscar began to think that sending Kurt to protect Amelia was a mistake.

Tiffany patted Kurt’s back and said, “Good job, nanny!”

Then, she turned to Olivia and said, “Mrs. Clinton, in this past half month, Tony seems to like Kurt the best. Amelia and I both lost to him. I think he recognizes Kurt as his caregiver since Kurt sleeps with him at night and feeds him milk. Kurt is now his dedicated nanny. He does not seem like a bodyguard at all.”

After a pause, Tiffany said daringly, “Compared to Oscar, the actual father, Kurt is much competent in taking care of Tony.”

Olivia glanced at Oscar.

A brief flash of anger appeared in Oscar’s eyes, and he turned a little sullen.

Amelia glared at Tiffany, indicating her to stop fooling around.

“Mom, Dad, please sit and rest. I’ll ask Martha to make some tea. Let’s have dinner here before returning.” Amelia tried to switch the topic of conversation.

Olivia and Owen sat down. Meanwhile, Oscar went to Amelia and said, “Which one is your room? I’ll help you to pack up. Both you and Tony should move back home tonight. I can’t sleep without you.”

Amelia had no plans to move return with Oscar tonight. Although she had forgiven Olivia and the others, she still disliked the Clinton residence. It may have something to do with what happened between her and Stephanie.

What Stephanie did frightened and disgusted her. The fact that Stephanie was willing to harm her unborn nephew made her inhuman and worse than a beast.

Those who are willing to harm children do not have a conscience. Children are innocent. How can anyone bear to hurt them?

Stephanie must be evil. I don’t believe that it was a lapse of judgment on her part. I can never see her as my sister-in-law.

People always found excuses for hating someone. Although Amelia rarely hated anyone, Stephanie disgusted her.

“If you don’t want to return to the Clinton residence, we can return to our apartment. It’s near Clinton Corporations, so it’s convenient for me to go to work,” Oscar said.

Amelia glanced at Olivia.

Olivia met her gaze and said calmly, “It’s fine if you prefer to return to the apartment. When I’m free, I will stay with you in the apartment for a few days. Young people should have their personal space. So I won’t force you.”

Since Olivia said that, it would seem unreasonable if Amelia refused to return.

Amelia considered for a moment and said, “Let’s go back to the Clinton residence. There are many maids there, so they can help us to look after Tony. Most importantly, Mom and Dad can see him any time.

Oscar couldn’t help but smile and brightened up.

Olivia smiled too.

Tiffany glanced at Amelia but did not say anything. After all, she was not a family member, so it was not her place to say anything.

Therefore, she sought to change the topic of conversation. “Amelia, you should sit down with Mrs. Clinton. I’ll prepare dinner with Martha. Dinner shall be ready soon.”

“Let me help you,” Amelia said and stood up.

“No, it’s all right. You can stay to chat with Mrs. Clinton. You might get in our way in the kitchen. Only Martha and I should work in the kitchen so that dinner will be ready faster,” Tiffany said.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 226

Never Mess With The Clintons

The Clintons had a great time enjoying their meal at Tiffany’s place. After they finished their meal, Tiffany showed them the way to the living room.

Tony, who was in between Olivia’s arms, behaved himself instead of wailing for no apparent reason.

Tiffany held Amelia in her arms and whispered, “Take good care of yourself and get in touch with me if anyone tries to pick on you!”

Amelia responded with a nod and expressed her gratitude in a sincere manner, “Thank you so much for taking care of me all this while!”

Her friend patted her on her back and asserted, “You need to stop it! It’s just something trivial!”

Seconds after she wrapped up their conversation, Amelia joined Oscar in the car at the rear passenger seat since Owen was the one driving them home.

Once they made their way out of the neighborhood, Olivia received a call and picked it up almost instantly. She gasped out her reply when she heard the person on the other end, “Come again? What’s wrong with Stephanie? Where is she?”

Immediately after she figured out the things going on, she hung up the call and urged, “One of the bodyguards I sent to keep an eye on Stephanie told me she had offended some sort of thugs! They’re currently surrounded by about twenty men at Mark Avenue! I’m afraid they can’t defend themselves! Hurry up and make our way there!”

Owen immediately accelerated the car. Meanwhile, Amelia’s mind was all over the place when she heard it. She thought it was about time for Stephanie to learn her lesson the hard way. Stephanie had never stopped picking on her ever since she got married to Oscar five years ago. Amelia could easily dismiss those since Stephanie was Oscar’s sister. However, she couldn’t take it anymore when Stephanie tried to murder Tony.

Unfortunately, Amelia was just another replaceable member of the family as compared to Stephanie who was an intermediate member of the Clintons. Olivia would never leave her daughter alone when her life was at stake.

When Amelia felt Oscar grasping her hand, she felt a sense of relief and finally regained her composure when she noticed his assuring smile.

On the other hand, Olivia, who had finally returned to her senses, recalled the sort of grudges Amelia and Stephanie held against one another.

She turned around and looked at her daughter-in-law with a diffident look. After much hesitation, she muttered, “Amelia, I didn’t mean to hurt you, but I can’t possibly leave my only daughter alone when she needs me.”

Amelia did a great job keeping her emotions to herself. She answered with a smile, “It’s fine, Mom.”

Olivia continued staring at Amelia with her face scrunched up. “Amelia, I know it doesn’t feel great, but-”

Her daughter-in-law interrupted her and asserted with a smile, “Mom, I’m fine. I’m not trying to blame you. You need to stop bringing it up. Otherwise, I’m going to feel guilty as well.”

Olivia took another peek at Amelia before glancing at Tony in between her arms. She suggested, “Why don’t you go return home with Oscar and Tony ahead of us? We’ll head over and check on Stephanie’s condition.”

Shaking her head, Amelia reassured, “We can’t afford to leave you and Dad alone. Why don’t you guys return home ahead of us instead? Oscar and I will head over to check on Stephanie.”

When Oscar caught Olivia looking at him in the eyes, he responded with a nod, assuring her everything would be fine.

Out of the blue, Owen broke the silence and insisted, “Just to be safe, we’ll head over together. Oscar, get our bodyguards to rush over to the scene at once.”

Oscar made a call and delivered his instruction as soon as the call got through. “Kurt, bring your team and rush to Mark Avenue as soon as possible. We’re currently on our way there.”

The moment he finished delivering his instructions, he hung up the call and looked in Owen’s direction.

He offered, “Dad, let me drive. I’ll get John to pick you and Mom up once we reach Mark Avenue.”

After much consideration, Owen thought that was the best for the sake of all. Once he pulled over, they alighted from the car and exchanged seats with one another.

Amelia was seated next to Oscar in the front passenger seat. Tony, who had been sleeping soundly, might have been roused from his sleep due to the sudden uproar. He started wailing in Olivia’s arms.

Olivia tried her best to pacify the wailing infant, but Tony showed no signs of stopping at all. Instead, he continued wailing at the top of his lungs.

Amelia couldn’t stand it anymore. She stretched her arms in an attempt to hold her son, but Olivia turned her down and said, “Just leave everything to me, Amelia.”

In spite of Olivia’s attempt to pacify the wailing infant, her effort was to no avail. Amelia instructed Oscar, “Get Kurt over since he’s the only one who can pacify Tony. Otherwise, he’s going to carry on and cry until he damages his vocal cord.”

Oscar reached for his phone as instructed, but Amelia stopped him when he was about to make the call. She said, “You need to keep your eyes on the road to keep all of us safe. I’ll talk to him.”

As soon as she got her hands on his phone, she made the call and asked, “Kurt, where are you?”

“You’re just right behind us? Can you hurry up and reach us in a few minutes? I’ll get Oscar to pull over for a short while. Tony won’t stop crying. We need you to pacify him.”

A few seconds of silence later, Amelia added, “Alright, that sounds pretty reassuring!”

Immediately after she hung up the call, Amelia instructed, “Oscar, can you pull over at the next bus station? Kurt is right behind us.” She then turned around and assured Olivia, “Mom, you don’t have to worry because the rest of the bodyguards are on their way to Mark Avenue as we speak.”

Olivia responded with a nod as she couldn’t move her eyes away from the wailing Tony.

Oscar pulled over at a nearby bus station as instructed. He was glad they had yet to make it to the highway. Otherwise, they wouldn’t get to pull over as they pleased.

As soon as he pulled over, a car showed up and pulled over behind them. Kurt immediately alighted from the car and approached them.

As soon as she reached their car, Kurt opened the door and told Olivia, “Mrs. Clinton, allow me to take care of him.”

The moment Olivia handed Tony to Kurt, the wailing infant stopped crying. He seemed to have gotten used to Kurt’s exclusive scent.

Oscar, who was seated on the driver’s seat, had his eyes flickered when he caught a glimpse of the heartwarming scene.

He could barely suppress the strong murderous intent he felt since his son seemed to be having a great time with another man. Kurt was an exceptional bodyguard, but Oscar regretted his decision of assigning him to keep an eye on Amelia. He had a hunch Kurt would get in the way of his marriage in the near future.

I hope I’m merely overthinking things again! Otherwise, I won’t hesitate to take him out when the time comes!

Oscar, whose mind was all over the place, had his eyes narrowed to a slit. The observant Amelia, who was seated next to him, noticed something was wrong.

She grasped his hand and shook her head when she caught him looking at her. As a result, Oscar finally returned to his calm and collected self and no longer deemed Kurt a formidable love rival.

No man could keep himself level-headed when he was head over heels in love with another woman. The slightest interaction of the woman with another man would get on their nerves. They would feel a strong urge to take down the said man at all costs.

Kurt handed Tony back to Olivia as soon as the infant fell into another deep slumber. “Mrs. Clinton, in order to tuck him in, you need to pacify him at a regular pace and intervals.”

Olivia took note of Kurt’s advice and nodded in return. “I’ll definitely keep that in mind!”

Shortly after they had everything sorted out, they carried on with their journey to Mark Avenue.

Oscar might have wanted to teach his sister a lesson—he took his sweet time while making his way to Mark Avenue. He would merely speed up the car whenever he heard Olivia nagging him to hurry up.

When they reached the scene, the parties involved were in the middle of an intense fight. Stephanie had a relatively disheveled appearance and started shivering in fear at the corner.

Olivia, who was in the car, had never seen her daughter in such a pathetic state.

Oscar immediately unfastened his seatbelt and instructed, “I’ll head over and check on them with Kurt! I want the rest of you to stay here until I’m back!”

Owen knew that was their only option since he had to stay back and look after his defenseless wife, daughter-in-law, and two-month-old grandson.

He responded with a nod and urged, “Go ahead and leave them to me! I’ll take good care of them until you’re back!”

Amelia stopped Oscar when he was about to alight from the car. When he turned around, she looked at him in the eyes and said, “Oscar, take good care of yourself! You need to stop giving me the shock of my life!”

Her husband responded with a nod and alighted from the car after a few seconds.

As soon as Oscar and Kurt joined the fight, the thugs knew they had picked on the wrong targets. Oscar instructed, “Take one of them into custody and break the limbs of the rest of them!”

All of a sudden, the sounds of people shrieking in pain took the residents of the neighborhood by surprise. They dared not lodge a police report and stopped poking their nose into the conflicting parties’ businesses.

Oscar glared at the bunch, who had been rendered incapable of motion, and yelled, “Tell your leader to stay away from the heiress of the Clintons! Otherwise, I’ll pay him a visit in person and send him on an express trip to hell!”

The heavily injured bunch ignored the racking sensation they felt and fled the scene, leaving those incapable of motion behind without a second thought.

“Boss, what are we supposed to do with him?” Kurt dragged a buff-looking man over to Oscar’s side and asked.

“Break his arms and send him back to the headquarter of his party once you finish interrogating him! We have no intention to pick on others, but we won’t allow others to challenge our authority! Don’t they dare lay a finger on Stephanie just because she’s no longer staying with us!” Oscar deadpanned his instruction with a stern look.

“Yes!” Kurt hesitated no more as soon as he took note of Oscar’s instructions. He brought the buff-looking man away with him.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 227

Back To The House

One of the bodyguards removed his coat and handed it over to the startled Stephanie. She immediately put it on and continued shivering in fear. No longer was she the arrogant heiress of the Clintons she had always been.

Oscar marched over and glared at her in the eyes. He instructed in a callous tone, “Get up.”

She raised her head and catapulted in Oscar’s direction the moment she saw him. Seconds after she reached him, she wrapped her arms around him and gasped out her reply, “Oscar, where have you been? I was afraid they would take me out for real! You should’ve rushed here to take them out sooner!”

It was then Stephanie found out she couldn’t live without her family’s support. Apart from her family members, no one would tolerate her and her arrogant attitude. None of them would listen to her, let alone do her a favor when she wasn’t affiliated with the Clintons. Throughout her life, she had spent most of her time splurging instead of generating a stable source of income. In fact, she thought working was merely a waste of her time. Unfortunately, when she was away from home, she found out she couldn’t even make a living to sustain her lifestyle.

Over the past few weeks, she approached her friends for their aids. However, when they found out she was no longer affiliated with the Clintons, they turned her down without a second thought. It was the same when she approached Cassie. Cassie transferred a hundred thousand to Amelia and told Amelia to try harder if she wished to return to her family members.

When she made a trip back to the Clinton residence, the guards pretended as if they weren’t aware of her identity. In spite of the harsh remarks she made, they stopped her from making her way into the residence. She tried camping near the residence in an attempt to approach her parents. However, the guards would chase her away without showing her any mercy.

As someone who had been living a carefree life ever since the day she was born, the past few weeks were the darkest period of her life. It was then she figured out she was but a nobody if she wasn’t a member of the Clintons. To be precise, she was inferior to those from a low-income family.

Oscar pushed Stephanie away with all his might and bellowed, “Suck up your tears! Otherwise, I’ll leave at once!”

Stephanie gaped at her brother’s warning and went dead silent as instructed after a short while. Afraid of getting on his nerves, she dared not try anything silly.

He deadpanned his questions, “Have they done anything silly?”

Shaking her head, she answered his query with her lips pursed, “N-No… It’s thanks to the bodyguards who have rushed over in the nick of time! Otherwise, they might have long gotten their hands on me! Oscar, I’m your only sister! You need to avenge me!”

Oscar’s disappointment was written all over his scrunched-up face. He couldn’t believe she wouldn’t stop seeking revenge even when she was in such a pathetic state.

He asked in return, “Since you’re the mastermind who has tried to bring upon my wife and son’s demise, am I supposed to avenge them as well?”

Stephanie was rendered speechless by her brother’s question.

Meanwhile, Olivia, who was in the car, couldn’t take it anymore. She handed over Tony to Amelia and said, “Amelia, stay here with Tony! We’ll head over and check on Stephanie!”

Judging by Amelia’s deadpan look, Olivia knew her daughter-in-law was upset. Nevertheless, Olivia couldn’t afford to leave her only daughter alone.

Owen and Olivia immediately alighted from the car. Olivia was about to rush over to Stephanie’s side, but Owen stopped her and told her to stay level-headed in times of emergencies.

“Olivia, you need to calm down since Oscar is there to keep Stephanie safe. Also, you need to mind your words and actions whenever you’re around Amelia. I’m afraid she’s going to overthink things again if you don’t mind yourself. There’s no way she can get over the things Stephanie has done over the night.”

Olivia let out a long sigh of despair with her brows furrowed. In the end, she took note of Owen’s instructions and walked over instead of rushing over.

As much as she was worried about Stephanie, she knew she had to take Amelia’s feelings into consideration.

“Stephanie.” Olivia’s presence brought the awkward confrontation between Oscar and Stephanie to a halt.

Stephanie started weeping the moment she saw her mother. She rushed over to her mother’s side and wailed, “Mom!”

Olivia was heartbroken as her daughter in her arms had a disheveled appearance with her clothes torn into pieces.

She asked anxiously, “What happened? Have they tried anything silly?”

As Stephanie wouldn’t stop wailing, Olivia got increasingly anxious.

Unable to get Stephanie to tell her the truth, Olivia looked at Oscar and asked, “What’s wrong with your sister? Has anyone tried to pick on her?”

Oscar shook his head and answered, “She hasn’t mentioned anything of that sort.”

“What do you mean? If others haven’t picked on her, why won’t she stop wailing? Where are those jerks?”

“They have already fled the scene.”

Unable to suppress her wrath anymore, she shot daggers at her son and reprimanded him, “Have you seriously allowed them to run away? We’re talking about your sister instead of some outsider! She shouldn’t have to go through any of these in the first place!”

Owen thought Olivia had gotten overly worked up. He urged in a hushed voice, “Calm down, Olivia. We need to figure out the reason the entire incident has occurred in the first place.”

Olivia took a deep breath to calm herself, but she was against the idea of letting those at fault off the hook.

Oscar stared at Stephanie with an indifferent look and announced in a callous tone, “Mom, I won’t poke my nose into her business anymore. I have made my way here merely because I don’t want you and Dad to be upset. Amelia has been pretty magnanimous. I hope you can return the favor and make a wise decision.”

Olivia was startled by her son’s reply. Similarly, the wailing Stephanie turned around and glared at her brother in the eyes.

She yelled at him without holding back, “Oscar, they almost took advantage of me! I have learned my lesson after spending such a long time away from home! Can you stop picking on me when Amelia isn’t even hurt? Why am I being reprimanded when they’re just fine?”

Oscar glanced at her with an indifferent look in silence as he had no intention to engage in another conversation with her.

He announced, “Dad, Mom, I’ll take my leave and allow you guys to decide if she’s allowed to make her way home with us.”

Oscar marched in the direction of the car without a second thought as soon as he finished his sentence. Olivia was about to stop him but changed her mind at the last minute.

She glared at her daughter in the eyes and reprimanded her foolish daughter, “Aren’t you aware your brother is still irritated by the thing you have done? Can’t you stop getting on his nerves? Had your brother not rushed over to your rescue, you would be gone by now!”

Stephanie was startled by the things awaiting her had that been the case. Nevertheless, she refused to give up just yet. She rebuked, “Mom, it’s the fault of those shameless thugs! If it weren’t because of them, I wouldn’t have ended up as pathetic as such! I have really learned my lesson and can’t live my life without you, Dad, and the support of the Clintons! Can you please bring me home with you? I will stop getting on your nerves in the future!”

The moment Owen caught Olivia staring at him, he denoted, “We’ll just bring her back with us for the time being.”

Olivia, Owen, and Stephanie headed into another car, whereas Oscar brought Amelia and Tony back with him using another car.

Oscar took a peek at Amelia through the rearview mirror and asked in a hushed voice, “Are you okay, Amelia?”

Amelia, who had been keeping Tony entertained, looked at him and repeated after him, “What?”

“If you are against the idea of being anywhere near Stephanie, we’ll make our way back to the apartment.”

Amelia gave it a thought and answered, “It’s fine. Let’s just make our way back to the Clinton residence. I don’t want Mom to be upset since she’s not really feeling well.”

Oscar nodded and made their way back to the Clinton residence as suggested.

As soon as Amelia and Stephanie returned, the confrontation occurred in the living room.

Stephanie greeted her sister-in-law with a proud grin before looking at the infant in between her arms. “Is this Tony?”

As Stephanie marched over, Amelia stayed behind Oscar and said, “Dad, Mom, it has been such a long day. I’ll head upstairs and call it a day.”

Once she finished her sentence, she made her way past Stephanie and brought herself upstairs.

Similarly, Oscar announced, “Dad, Mom, I’ll be making my way upstairs as well. Good night.”

When Olivia, Owen, and Stephanie were the only ones left in the living room. Stephanie started complaining, “Dad, Mom, have you seen Amelia’s arrogant look? She doesn’t even consider me her sister-in-law! Can’t you guys do something about it?”

Olivia rolled her eyes and reprimanded her daughter, “Why don’t you learn to show her some respect before complaining about her? I’m going to make myself clear for one last time! Your brother and sister-in-law are the ones in charge of the family in the future. You’d better patch things up with her if you don’t wish to spend the rest of your life in isolation. Otherwise, you’d better not regret your decision if anything happens to you in the future. Also, I’m not going to bother if you’re the one at fault this time. Just stop doing anything rash in the future. I have always thought you’re an independent child, but it turns out you’re not. That’s it for today. I’ll be heading upstairs and calling it a day as well.”

Staring at Olivia’s departing figure, Stephanie thought she was no longer a member of the family.

In a final attempt to salvage her relationship with her family members, she looked at her father with her lips pursed and asked, “Dad, are you going to dismiss me as well?”

“Stephanie, have you not learned your lesson? I’ll allow you to take a break for a few days. Once you’re ready, I’ll get you a job to keep you occupied. As soon as you have something to tend to, I’m sure you’re going to stop overthinking things.” As soon as Owen made himself clear, he headed upstairs to join his wife.

As much as Stephanie tried to play to her parents’ emotions, her efforts were to no avail.

She wiped her tears dry and muttered to herself while having her eyes glued to the rooms on the first floor, “Dad, Mom, Oscar, it seems like Amelia is the only one all of you care about, huh? If that’s the case, I need to get rid of her as soon as possible! Cassie is right—we need to rely on one another to take out our common foe! Since I’m back, it’s time for her to leave the family because we’ll never be a family!”

•

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 228

The Gentleman

As soon as Stephanie returned to her room, she stopped playing the victim and returned to her usual vicious self.

She stood next to the window and reached for her phone to make a call. Once the person on the other end picked up the call, she said, “Cassie, I’m already home. My parents couldn’t stand it as they thought others almost took advantage of me. I’ll definitely get rid of Amelia this time.”

Cassie, who was on the other end of the call, pretended as though she was thrilled on Stephanie’s behalf. “Congratulations! As long as you’re willing to turn over a new leaf, Amelia will never be a match for you! I’ll get you everything you want as soon as I become your sister-in-law!”

Ha! It seems like Cassie still thinks she’s able to manipulate me to do her biddings, huh?

After spending a few weeks away from home, Stephanie was no longer the foolish young woman she used to be. She knew she was just a nobody without the Clintons. Therefore, the only thing she had in mind was to get rid of Amelia. Otherwise, she wouldn’t get to enjoy her privileges as the heiress of the Clintons.

I’m no longer a naïve woman after mingling with people from all walks of life over the past few weeks! The thing that frightens me the most is being disposed of by the Clintons! I’m just a nobody without the backing of the family! In other words, I need to get rid of Amelia as soon as possible! Once I get rid of her, I’m sure everyone is going to appreciate my presence again!

I can’t afford to offend Oscar anymore! At the end of the day, Oscar is the one Dad and Mom rely on! In other words, to gain Oscar’s attention, I have to get rid of Amelia!

As Stephanie lost herself in a train of thought, Cassie asked, “Stephanie, are you still on the line?”

Stephanie finally snapped out of her imagination and asked, “Yes?”

“Stephanie, since you have made your way back to the Clintons, get your hands on Amelia’s phone to get in touch with Carter. If you tell him she’s having it tough with the Clintons, he’ll definitely try his best to visit Amelia in person! Once he shows up, accuse her of having an affair with Carter! There’s no way he’s going to tolerate her anymore if you show him their photos!”

Stephanie responded to Cassie’s plan with a smirk as she was well aware Cassie considered her nothing more than her minion.

As Stephanie had nothing to lose, she remarked in a sarcastic manner, “I’ll execute the plan once the time comes, but I don’t think Oscar still has a thing for you. I’m afraid you won’t get to be a household member of the Clintons even if Amelia is no longer around.”

After two minutes of silence, Cassie queried, “Stephanie, what exactly do you mean?”

“Well, I’m afraid you’re going to waste your time for nothing. Thus, I’m just trying to give you a heads-up. After all, you were one of the masterminds behind the accident. You don’t think Oscar is going to accept you if he’s aware of the truth, do you?”

“Have you betrayed me?” Cassie asked in a callous tone.

“Cassie, you need to stop blaming me when I’m just trying to defend myself! I’m sure you know Oscar better than me! No one dares offend him whenever he’s frustrated for real!”

The woman on the other end went dead silent once again. A few moments later, she said, “Stephanie, have you forgotten we’re on the same boat? Don’t you think you’re going overboard? If it weren’t because of me, you wouldn’t get to make your way back to the Clintons so soon.”

Stephanie scowled at Cassie’s reply and replied in a sarcastic manner, “You’re not mad at me, aren’t you? Although we’re allies, I won’t forget the time you have turned me down when I was in desperate need of cash. Never will I forget the humiliation you have put me through.”

Similarly, Cassie burst out laughing as a result of extreme frustration.

When she figured out Stephanie was nothing but an ungrateful and greedy woman, she asked in a rhetorical manner, “Are you picking on me when I have been supporting you over the past few weeks? None of your so-called friends bothered to offer you any help! On the contrary, I got you everything you need, including accommodation and a stable source of income! You don’t think I’m going to do just anyone a similar favor, do you?”

“Am I supposed to express my gratitude when I can’t even buy myself a bag with your so-called stable source of income?”

Cassie was at a loss for words to defend herself as Stephanie wouldn’t stop taking things for granted. She thought everyone was obliged to place her over themselves.

“Stephanie, shall we cut the crap? Just bear in mind we’re on the same boat! Once you drive them apart from one another, I’ll get them to file for divorce! Just wait and see if I’m going to be your sister-in-law in the future!”

Immediately after she wrapped up their conversation, the frustrated Cassie hung up the call.

Stephanie cast her phone aside and stretched her limbs on the spacious bed. She caught a whiff of the familiar scent and thought it felt great to be back after such a long time. “I’m finally back! I’ll ensure you that I won’t leave this place anymore! Amelia, just you wait and see! It’s only a matter of time until I get rid of you!”

Instead of reflecting upon her actions, Stephanie held Amelia accountable for her misery over the past few weeks. She thought nothing could get in her lavish lifestyle had Amelia stayed away from her brother and her family.

Meanwhile, Oscar approached the occupied Amelia from behind and wrapped his arms around her waist. He asked, “Are you angry?”

Startled by his presence, Amelia felt her limbs turning stiff. She had her eyes glued to their son and announced, “I’m fine. It’s something worth celebrating since your sister is finally home again.”

Oscar pursed Amelia’s ears and instructed in a hushed voice, “Since our son has fallen asleep, can you turn around and look at me?”

After much hesitation, Amelia turned around as instructed and looked at him in the eyes.

He sized her up and suggested, “Amelia, if you’re really against the idea of being around Stephanie, we’ll move back to our apartment in the city. Dad and Mom won’t banish her for life since she’s still their sweetheart. You don’t have to worry about Dad and Mom. I’m sure they won’t mind at all.”

Amelia remained silent and looked elsewhere to avoid his gaze. He lifted her chin and kissed her on the lips.

“I’ll take that silence means yes. You need to stop overthinking things and just stay away from the people you don’t wish to be around them. I’ll get the maids to get our stuff packed tomorrow.”

Amelia wrapped her arms around Oscar’s waist and leaned against him on the chest.

All of a sudden, Oscar suggested, “I’ll get the maid to bring our son to the nursery room.”

Amelia vigorously shook her head and insisted, “He’s spending the night with us! I’m afraid that lunatic sister of yours is going to try something silly and take out our son! Please forgive me for being harsh with my words, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. I just can’t bear to put our son’s life at stake.”

Her husband caressed her back and asserted, “Alright, he’ll be spending the night with us.”

Heaving a sigh of relief, she requested, “I wish to get Kurt to keep an eye on our son! It just doesn’t feel safe to leave him alone, unattended when we’re not around!”

Oscar kissed her on the forehead and announced, “That won’t be an issue, but he’s not allowed to make his way into our room. It’s quite a serious offense if he barges in without our consent.”

Amelia looked at him in the eyes and requested, “I think Tony enjoys having Kurt around him as well. Whenever Kurt’s around, Tony won’t make a fuss. Therefore, I wish to get him to be our son’s nanny. I think he’s the perfect candidate for the job.”

Oscar was jealous when he heard Amelia complimenting another man in front of him. He asked, “Does that mean you think highly of him?”

Unaware of the things he had in mind, she nodded and added without a second thought, “Kurt is a man of a few words, but it feels safe having him around. It’s obvious he’s a reliable man. I’m sure his wife is going to live a blissful life with him in the future.”

The moment she finished her sentence, she could feel herself in the air. By the time she returned to her senses, she noticed she had ended up on the bed with Oscar on top of her.

He bit her lips as a form of punishment. “Consider this a punishment for complimenting another man in front of me. If you don’t stop complimenting him, I’ll dispatch him to another region.”

Amelia rolled her eyes and burst out laughing when she heard him. She ran her fingers across his handsome face and asked, “Didn’t you sent him to keep me safe? Why are you jealous out of the blue?”

Oscar was at a loss for words to defend himself. In order to divert her attention, he grasped Amelia’s hand and bit her fingers. He announced in a domineering manner, “You’re only allowed to praise this exceptional husband of yours in the future!”

She beamed in satisfaction because the fact he was jealous indicated he still cared about her.

Oscar, who had his eyes glued to his wife, couldn’t suppress his urge anymore. He leaned over and kissed her on the lips. A few seconds later, he inched away from her as he recalled she was in the middle of recovery. He was against the idea of putting her at risk since they had all the time they needed in the future. Had he failed to exercise caution, he would end up bearing the consequences of his actions.

Oscar covered Amelia’s eyes with his hands and instructed, “You need to stop looking at me in that manner.”

Amelia was overwhelmed by a heartwarming sensation to the point the fact Shermaine had returned no longer seemed to matter.

A short while later, Oscar made his way to the bathroom and turned on the tap to take a shower.

Amelia brought herself up and stared in the direction of the bathroom. No longer in a foul mood, she responded with a smirk.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 229

On Your Knees

Amelia couldn’t take it anymore as Oscar had spent more than half an hour in the washroom. Worried, she jumped out of bed and knocked on the door of the bathroom. “Oscar, is everything fine?”

She knocked over and over again, but the man inside the bathroom showed no signs of answering the door at all.

When she leaned over and heard the sound of a running tap, she asked with a frown, “Oscar? Hello?”

The moment she thought something bad had happened to Oscar and was about to barge into the bathroom, someone opened the door from inside. As a result, Amelia knocked into something.

She caressed her nose and had her eyes glued to her husband’s nicely toned torso. Unable to pull herself together, she started running her fingers through it.

Oscar thought she would soon start drooling over his body. Out of the blue, he asked, “Are you having a great time playing around with it?”

It was then she snapped out of bewilderment and returned to her senses. The flushing woman looked at the smirking man and asked in return, “W-What’s taking you so long?”

Oscar inched over and wrapped his arms around her waist. She could literally feel his breath since he was just next to her.

He leaned over and murmured in a barely audible voice, “Aren’t you aware of the things I have done to get my urge suppressed? If you don’t stop looking at me with that sad puppy eyes of yours, I’m going to devour you for real.”

Amelia’s cheeks reddened when she heard him. She stopped retaliating and allowed him to run his hands all over her body.

The moment he lifted her up, she wrapped her arms around his neck as she always had. She also caught a glimpse of the man grinning in excitement.

Oscar glanced at her and asserted, “It’s getting late. Why don’t you keep your lust to yourself since it’s time to call it a day?”

Amelia continued running her fingers across his chest and asked in a flirtatious tone, “Oscar, are you sure you’re going to turn me down?”

Oscar’s eyes gleamed the moment he heard her. He marched in the direction of their bed with his wife in between his arms and cast her on the spacious bed without a second thought.

He repeated himself, “You’re not in a condition for such a session. Therefore, you need to stop arousing me and call it a day.”

Immediately after he made himself clear, he switched off the lights. The only source of illumination available was the lamp on the nightstand.

When Oscar joined Amelia and Tony in bed, they kissed their son on his cheeks. Amelia announced in a gentle tone, “Good night, Sweetheart.”

Unable to resist the pent-up fatigue after the long day, they finally fell into a deep slumber. Oscar spent his time at Pillere attending all sorts of conferences to smoke out the mole of the organization all while taking Amelia and Tony’s safety into consideration. Since he was finally back to the side of his loved ones, he fell asleep within a few minutes. He slept like a log throughout the entire night. Thankfully, their son behaved himself instead of throwing a tantrum in the middle of the night.

Tony merely woke up twice throughout the entire night, but he went back to sleep as soon as he got his feedings of milk. As Amelia was in the middle of recovery, she took note of the doctor’s advice and got her son formula milk instead of latching.

It had been a long time since Oscar had such a great night. Therefore, he felt afresh when he roused from his sleep the next day. After he got himself washed up to start the day, he noticed Amelia was already awake with Tony in between her arms.

Amelia instructed the moment she saw him, “Oscar, can you get me a bottle of milk for Tony? I think he’s hungry again.”

Oscar was dumbfounded as he rarely had the chance to hold their son in between his arms, let alone make him his milk.

After he retrieved the bottle, he looked at Amelia and asked, “What am I supposed to do next?”

Amelia couldn’t stand it anymore. She handed him their son and asserted, “Just hand it over to me.”

To their surprise, the moment Oscar held Tony in his arms, their son started wailing at the top of his lungs as though he was startled by his father’s presence.

As much as Oscar tried to pacify the helpless infant, his effort was to no avail. The almighty Oscar was overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness for the first time in forever.

Amelia started preparing the milk and suggested, “Can you go get Kurt over and tend to Tony? I’m afraid Tony isn’t going to stop wailing unless Kurt is around. He might have gotten used to Kurt’s presence.”

Oscar’s eyes flickered when he heard Amelia. He couldn’t believe he had to rely on another man to stop his son from crying. To make things worse, he was the one who had dispatched Kurt to keep an eye on them.

As reluctant as Oscar might be, he had no choice but to get Kurt over to pacify their son.

The moment Stephanie walked down the stairs and caught a glimpse of Kurt holding Tony in his arms, she asked with a frown, “Kurt, why are you holding the heir of the Clintons in your arms? Are you sure that’s a role of a bodyguard?”

Stephanie had one exceptional skill—she could easily get on others’ nerves.

Kurt glanced at her and made up his mind to dismiss the arrogant woman’s sarcastic remark.

Overwhelmed by angst, Stephanie yelled at Amelia and asked, “Why has Tony grown so fond of Kurt, Amelia? Are you guys having some sort of affair or something?”

Amelia paid no heed to her sister-in-law’s defaming remarks and continued savoring her breakfast.

Meanwhile, Olivia reprimanded her daughter with her brows furrowed, “Stephanie, what sort of nonsense are you talking about?”

Stephanie responded with her lips pursed in an aggrieved manner as she dared not try anything reckless around Oscar.

Oscar beckoned Kurt to head upstairs and instructed, “Kurt, please bring Tony upstairs ahead of us.”

Kurt nodded in return. Stephanie got in their way when he was about to make his way up the stairs with Tony.

Staring at the infant in Kurt’s arms, Stephanie stretched her arms in an attempt to hold him. However, Kurt stepped aside and stayed away from her without a second thought.

Stephanie’s face scrunched up in irritation. Gritting her teeth to suppress her wrath, she asked, “Kurt, what do you think you’re doing?”

“Allow me to express my utmost apologies, Ms. Stephanie. I have received instructions from Boss to keep him away from you.”

Kurt responded with a courteous nod and brought Tony upstairs without wasting his time with the irritated woman.

Stephanie stomped her way in Oscar’s direction and yelled to express her frustration, “Oscar, what do you think you’re doing? I’m Tony’s aunt! Why am I not even allowed to hold him?”

Instead of answering his sister’s query, Oscar gulped down his meal and announced, “Mom, I have quite a lot of things to tend to these days. It’s quite a hassle to travel back and forth between Clinton Corporations and the residence. Instead of wasting a few hours traveling, I’ll bring Amelia and Tony to the apartment for the time being.”

When Amelia caught the startled Olivia looking in her direction, she avoided her mother-in-law’s gaze as she felt a sense of guilt.

After much consideration, Olivia asked, “Oscar, I don’t think you have time to look after them. I’m afraid Amelia, who’s still in the middle of recovery, won’t be able to look after Tony without others’ aid. Since we have so many maids looking after them, don’t you think it’s better to have them stay with us?”

Her son shook his head and rebuked, “That won’t be necessary, Mom. Molly is around to help Amelia out. In fact, Tony has grown increasingly reliant on Kurt. I don’t think they need anyone else apart from the two of them.”

Olivia secretly heaved a long sigh of despair as she knew nothing she had in mind could change her son’s mind.

Stephanie got increasingly worked up when she heard her brother’s plan. Afraid she wouldn’t get to execute the plan she had in mind, she yelled, “No! You’re not allowed to move out with Amelia!” If Amelia is no longer around, how the heck am I supposed to get my hands on her phone?

The ones in the dining hall turned around and looked at Stephanie when they heard her.

Stephanie took her seat and made something up to conceal her intention. She said, “Dad, Mom, Oscar, Amelia, I know I’m the one at fault! After spending a few weeks away from home, I have learned my lessons! I shouldn’t have hired someone to take Amelia out just because I was jealous! It was never my intention to kill them! When I heard they were on the verge of death, I dared not show up at the hospital to visit them! I was on pins and needles as I was afraid all of you would hold me accountable as soon as someone let the cat out of the bag!” She paused and sniffled halfway through her orated speech. A few seconds later, she added, “I accidentally raised my volume and made all sorts of harsh remarks against Amelia when I saw them! It was never my intention to pick on her! I was really horrified when the bunch of thugs had me surrounded! As startled as I might be, I was grateful Oscar and Amelia had rushed to my rescue in spite of the grudges they held against me! I was really grateful you guys have shown up to my rescue! Nonetheless, I couldn’t stop myself from putting on an arrogant front as I was afraid Amelia would pick on me again! I felt guilty for the things I had done!”

After she had another mouthful of her meal, she announced with her head drooping over her shoulders, “I really wish to atone for my sins! Can you guys please stay? Action speaks louder than words—I’ll prove myself worthy! If you guys move out, how am I supposed to prove myself? If that’s the case, I will never forgive myself for the rest of my life!”

Olivia was startled by her daughter’s orated speech. It was evident she had never thought her arrogant daughter would grovel herself at others’ mercy and admit her mistakes.

Meanwhile, Oscar had his fair share of doubts. Similarly, Amelia couldn’t figure out if Stephanie had been telling the truth or was it merely another one of her acts.

Oscar instructed the maid, “Go get their clothes packed and send it to the car as soon as you’re done.”

Upon a simple glimpse at Olivia and Owen, the maid responded with a nod and made her way upstairs.

The aggrieved Stephanie looked at Oscar open-mouthed. She couldn’t believe her brother she respected the most refused to show her any mercy at all.

Stephanie pursed her lips with all her might as though she had something else in mind. All of a sudden, she took everyone in the dining hall by surprise when she brought herself up and got down on her knees in front of Amelia.

“Amelia, can you please forgive me for the mistakes I have committed in the past?” None of them could see her expression as Stephanie had her head drooping over her shoulders. However, they thought she meant it.

Too Much to Bear My Love Chapter 230

Unfairness

Amelia was rendered speechless, staring at Stephanie, who was kneeling on the floor.

Stephanie lifted her head slightly and took a glance at Amelia, and lowered her head once again. “Amelia, I was wrong. Would you please forgive me?”

At that moment, Amelia’s face was devoid of expression. It was evident that Stephanie deliberately did this in front of the family. If Amelia chose not to forgive her, it would cause Olivia to hate her without a doubt. After all, compared to Stephanie, Amelia was just a daughter-in-law. Regardless of how Olivia always said Amelia was like her own daughter, it paled compared to Stephanie, their daughter.

Nonetheless, it was tough for Amelia to forgive Stephanie as the latter had crossed the line.

When Amelia was struggling in her dilemma, Oscar stood up and decided for her.

Right then, Oscar wrapped his arm around Amelia’s waist and stared rigidly at the pretending Stephanie. “Get up.”

Lifting her head, Stephanie begged indignantly, “Oz, I’m truly sorry. Can’t you forgive me?”

Oscar repeated his words with a cold expression. “Get up now.”

Feeling desperate, Stephanie cast a helpless glance towards Olivia.

Right then, Olivia rose from her chair and uttered gently, “Oz, Stephanie is your sister after all. Don’t be so mean to her.”

Oscar bit his lips and responded in a rather composed manner. “Mom, Amelia and I will go back after lunch. If you and Dad miss Tony, you can visit anytime.”

Olivia furrowed her brows and shifted her gaze to Amelia.

With that, Amelia instinctively evaded her eyes.

At that instant, Stephanie added timely, “Amelia, please forgive me. If you do, I’m sure Oscar will too. Do you want to see my relationship with Oscar get broken like this?”

Amelia continued to lean against Oscar’s chest, without a word.

Upon seeing that, Stephanie started to weep helplessly, as though she was getting bullied unfairly.

Heartbroken, Olivia started to feel discontent with Amelia’s emotionless gesture. After all, the former had never seen Stephanie kneeled to anyone before, not to mention she was the princess of the Clintons.

Olivia’s feelings was beyond explanation.

“Amelia, since Stephanie has apologized, why don’t you just forgive her?” Olivia still sounded utterly gentle, but one could the pressure she was trying to give.

Upon hearing that, Amelia’s heart skipped a beat.

She let out an awkward smile. Just as she expected, Olivia would easily forget all the wrong things that Stephanie had done.

This is a unfair world after all.

“Mom, I…” Amelia choked on her words.

“Mom, I won’t forgive her. Before she truly repents what she has done, I won’t treat her as my sister,” Oscar spoke before Amelia could.

Upon hearing that, Olivia’s expression turned complicated.

Just then, Stephania jumped towards Amelia’s feet and hugged her leg like a beggar. “Amelia, it’s my fault. I promise I will treat Tony well from now on. I’ve done you wrong so many times. I’m sorry. Please give me one chance to repent, okay? I’m begging you, please.”

Amelia was now trapped between a rock and a hard place.

Right then, Olivia’s gaze towards Amelia had started to change towards accusation.

Sensing that, Amelia shuddered in stress.

Amelia knew her relationship with Olivia would surely be over if she did not forgive Stephanie this time. Nevertheless, she and her baby almost lost their lives in that accident. Her heart fell with a thud whenever she recalled Tony covered in blood.

No mother in this world could forgive someone who tried to kill her child.

No way. It’s unforgivable.

“Stephanie, get up now.” Oscar’s face turned utterly stern.

Stephanie’s cry became louder.

“Oscar, you’ve always treated me the best. Are you going to abandon me just because of one mistake?” Stephanie wiped the tears on her face. “I’ve gone through a lot this past month. And I’ve realized my faults. Not everyone is a sage: who can commit no error? Could you please give your sister a chance?”

At that instant, Oscar’s face clouded over.

As such, Olivia’s face had fallen too.

“Oscar, Stephanie is your sister, and she has realized her mistake. You and Amelia forgive her for this one time, okay?” Olivia’s plead sounded more like a command.

The most hurting part for Oscar and Amelia in this was Olivia’s unfairness.

It was apparent she was trying to use her status as a mother to oppress them. If they did not forgive Stephanie at this point, it would seem that they were disrespectful and ungrateful. In other words, she had pushed them to the edge of the cliff.

Olivia was not as generous and gentle as she looked. To put it more precisely, she had no limit when it came to indulging Stephanie. Hence, that was why Stephanie dared to pull out something as inhuman as murder without fearing the consequences.

Noticing Oscar and Amelia’s dilemma, Owen could not help but weigh in gently. “Olivia, give Amelia some time to think about it. It’s Stephanie’s fault, and she should learn her lesson.”

Even though Owen was not exactly in favor of Amelia and he had always been sitting on the ramparts, there was still a sense of justice within him. Regardless of who the subject might be, he would not hesitate to express his just thought. That was why Amelia paid him high respect.

With his words, Olivia finally managed to clear her thought by a bit. Staring at Oscar and Amelia, her heart skipped a beat as she realized she might have crossed the line too.

“Oscar, Amelia, I didn’t mean what I said. I feel that Stephanie has realized her mistake. I want this family to be united. Any one of you is important to this family. Can you give Stephanie a chance for my sake?”

Olivia pleaded with an utterly genuine face.

Amelia turned to look at Oscar as she could not think of a way to reject Olivia.

In Amelia’s heart, Olivia was the elder that she respected the most, and she would never want to see the latter sad.

After pondering a while, Amelia expressed in a euphemistic manner. “Mom, Oz and I won’t go back to the apartment for the moment.”

It was, without doubt, a huge compromise that Amelia made.

With that, Stephanie was secretly elated. You’re not matched to play this game with me. Amelia, wait and see. One day I’ll make you leave this house in the most miserable way possible. And that day will come sooner than you think.

Olivia finally let out a sigh of relief as she walked to help Stephanie up. “Thank Amelia for being so generous. Don’t ever do such a thing again in the future; or else, your dad and I won’t be helping you anymore.”

Nodded her head sincerely, Stephanie turned to Amelia. “Amelia, thanks so much!”

Amelia did not respond to her directly but spoke to Olivia. “Mom, I’ll go upstairs to check on Tony. You guys please have breakfast first.”

“Go ahead.”

Amelia went upstairs, with Oscar following her behind.

Entered the room, Oscar hugged her into his embrace and uttered with a soft voice, “It must be hard for you.”

Amelia shook her head, she looked rather despondent.

Oscar looked her straight into her eyes. “If you don’t like it here, we can go back to the apartment.”

Amelia shook her head slightly. “It’s fine. I’m okay.”

Oscar furrowed his brows for a moment and eventually said, “I’ll ask the maid to pack the luggage. We’ll leave after lunch. I won’t let my woman get wronged like this.”

Amelia grabbed his arms nervously. “Oscar, don’t. I don’t want to get caught between you and Mom. Plus, Tony is still small. It’ll be better here too since there are maids here to take care of him. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.”

She was feeling extremely disappointed. Stephanie had committed such a severe crime, yet the Clintons only chased her out for a month and a half. With that, she knew that she and her child were indeed valueless in that family.

The more she thought about it, the more discouraged she got. She thought it was unfair that a daughter that was married away was treated more importantly and a daughter-in-law and a grandson.

Even though Olivia had said numerous times that Amelia was her favorite, it turned out the former was merely fooling her.

Olivia’s gesture had made Amelia feel betrayed. The latter had always trusted the former to be reasonable and wise; yet, the reality was merciless.

Despite Oscar being loyally by her side, she still felt like an island in that family.

The family promised her fair treatment, but the fact was she would never really be a part of them. At that instant, hopelessness filled her whole body.