billion book
Chapter 301-320
Chapter 301
“Mom’s going to take you away for a while. Where do you want to go?”
Rosalie had to find a place where no one knew her, and give birth to the baby before she started showing.
As she was thinking, her phone rang
Not knowing who it was, she picked up her phone. There, she saw an unknown number. She swiped across the screen to answer.
“Hello?”
However, no sound came from the other end of the line.
“Hello, who is this?” Rosalie pressed, but there was still no response.
Suddenly, the caller hung up abruptly.
Rosalie was puzzled. Could it have been a wrong number?
Just as she was about to put down the phone, it rang again. It was the same number.
Rosalie answered again. “Hello?”
And yet, there was still no sound.
“If you don’t speak, I’ll hang up and block this number.”
Despite that, the phone remained silent. There was still no sound.
A sudden chill ran down Rosalie’s spine–she could hear someone’s breath. There was no problem with her phone… The caller wasn’t speaking on purpose!
The caller ID only showed the number, and there was no information on the location.
Rosalie’s heart skipped a beat, and she immediately hung up and blocked the number.
It must have been a prank or a scam call. Scam calls were all too prevalent these days. It had probably been just a psychological tactic, but she still felt uneasy..
“Baby, it’s okay, don’t be afraid. It was just a prank call, but Mommy blocked that number.”
At the hospital, Cynthia held her phone; she brought up Theodore’s number repeatedly, but she also kept closing her contact list. Finally, she threw her phone aside in frustration.
She had never been this afraid before. She was scared Theodore would get tired of her.
Was he tired of her because she was dying? Was he disregarding her because she was going to die anyway? Rosalie must have taken advantage of this to get close to him!
No, Theodore wouldn’t be that cruel. It must be that bitch Rosalie’s fault! She was always hanging around Theodore, and she even wanted to be his sister.
How ridiculous! Was she even worthy?
“Rosalie,” she snarled, “if I really die I’ll make sure you go to hell with me! I won’t let you have Theo, even if I’m dead!”
Cynthia had decided that even if she died, she would take Rosalie down with her! She absolutely wouldn’t stand by and watch that bitch be with Theodore.
“What a great plan! You don’t sound like you’re sick at all.”
A man’s voice suddenly rang in the room.
Cynthia turned, to see a man dressed in black walking into the room. He was wearing a black baseball cap and mask. Not a part of him was uncovered, including his face. The only thing one could make out was his tall figure.
He stood tall and strong, but he didn’t seem rough. Although he was dressed this way, he emanated a youthful and handsome aura.
Cynthia stiffened. “Who are you?”
The man closed the door, and walked over to her bed with long strides. “Hello, Miss Zeller. I think we can be friends.”
Nervous, Cynthia raised her hand to press the button by the bed. The man watched her casually, hands in his pockets, not doing a single thing.
Cynthia pressed the button, but no medical staff came.
“Miss Zeller, don’t bother,” said the man. “The nurses won’t be alerted) unless I reconnect it.”
Just as Cynthia was about to scream, the man pulled out a knife and traced the edge of it lightly with his fingers.
“Slitting your throat open only takes a second. Scream if you don’t believe me.”
Cynthia swallowed her scream, her eyes wide as she began to panic.
“Who are you?! I’m telling you, I’m no ordinary person! If you dare to lay a finger on me, I guarantee you’ll pay a heavy price! Theo won’t let you go!”
“Where is he, then?” The man looked around, puzzled. “Why are you alone in the ward, feeling so angry that you want to drag someone else to hell? Well, at least you’re self–aware. You know you deserve to go to hell.”
“You…” Cynthia was so furious that her heart nearly stopped. “What do you want?!”
The man put away the knife. “There’s no need to panic, Miss Zeller. I’m here to make a deal with you. Like I said, we can be friends. We don’t have to be enemies.”
Cynthia didn’t remember knowing someone like this strange man. Judging from his words, he seemed to know Theodore.
“What do you mean? What do you want?” she demanded.
The man took a step forward and sat on the bed.
Cynthia was immediately frightened, “Stay away from me!”
“What are you afraid of? If I wanted to kill you, you’d already be dead.”
She clutched the blanket. “Just spit it out.”
15
+35 BONUS
“Miss Zeller, I know you have a heart condition. Unfortunately, there are too many people waiting for a heart transplant. Even if a suitable heart is found, it’ll be given to people who need it more urgently than you. You look like you can last another year or so. By that time, if you still can’t find a heart donor, who knows if you’ll survive or not?”
“Theo will find a way to get me a heart! He told me that I’m at the top of the transplant list. Don’t try to scare me!”
“Really?”
The man laughed.
“Miss Zeller, you’re quite optimistic. Let me tell you a fact. In our country, very few people sign organ donation agreements. Not to mention, these good–hearted people must die unexpectedly, and their organs must be usable. If they die of old age–say, around eighty or ninety–their organs would be useless even if they wanted to donate them. And even if someone does die unexpectedly, the chances of a successful match are extremely low.”
The more Cynthia listened, the more anxious she became.
Yet, she argued stubbornly, “Theo will raise my chances. He’s rich, and he can look for a heart anywhere in the world!”
The man roared with laughter.
“Aren’t you naïve, Miss Zeller? Every country has a long list of patients waiting for heart transplants. Even if Theodore finds a match abroad, the heart, once removed from the donor, can only be stored for eight hours no matter how well it’s preserved. Beyond that, it’s useless!”
“With how advanced technology is today, there must be a better way to preserve the heart and extend its life,” Cynthia retorted angrily. “Do you think I’m stupid?”
“You wouldn’t be stupid enough to think you could get a donor heart
and successfully undergo a transplant otherwise,” the man said. indifferently. “Do you know how low the chances are of finding a suitable heart and having a successful operation?”
“I know it’s low, but people who don’t get it are ordinary people. I’m not some commoner. I’m Mrs. Spencer, the mistress of SK
Enterprise!” Cynthia shot back.
The man snorted.
“There are ten million patients waiting for heart transplants in this country, but fewer than 500 successful transplants are performed each year. The probability is less than 0.00005%. The rest either survive on heavy medication and treatment, or die while waiting. Miss Zeller, which option do you think you will get?”
Cynthia was rendered speechless.
“But I’m certain that no matter which one it is, it will end badly for you. You say you want to drag Rosalie to hell with you, but do you have the ability?” the man pressed.
His words were cruel, but it was the harsh reality. Cynthia had to admit he was right.
She retorted hoarsely, “Theo will help me. He definitely will…”
“So what if he helps you?” the man interrupted. “In this world, no matter how wealthy or powerful someone is, he must face death. When you’re terminally ill, money just makes dying a bit more comfortable. No one can stop death. Money can only delay it a bit. You’ll only get to live a few more years at best, Miss Zeller. It’s truly a pity.”
“I won’t dié so soon!” Cynthia retorted angrily. “Don’t try to scare me!”
“I’m scaring you? Let me tell you another thing. Theodore Spencer is so wealthy, it wouldn’t be difficult for him to find a way to buy a heart. He might only need to make a few calls, but why hasn’t he done it? It seems he doesn’t care about you as much as you think.”
Cynthia’s eyes widened. “Don’t try to create a rift between us! Theo
+25 BONUS
will be visiting me in a while. If he sees you, he won’t let you off!”
“In that case, you wouldn’t survive,” the man said indifferently. “You’d better pray he doesn’t show up all of a sudden.”
Frowning, Cynthia demanded, “Are you threatening me? Who the hell are you?”
“I’m not threatening you,” the man replied coldly. “I think your misunderstood. I mean, if Theodore comes, I have to leave, then I can’t help you. You’ll surely die then.”
“How…how can you help me?” Cynthia looked at him suspiciously. This man felt really dangerous.
The man approached her, and said softly, “I can help you find a -suitable heart. A strong one, that’s a match for you.”
Cynthia was stunned. “What did you say?”
She couldn’t believe it.
“You show up out of nowhere, and say you’ll find me a healthy heart. I won’t believe your nonsense!”
She wasn’t a three–year–old toddler! As if she would believe just any stranger’s words! If she were that naive, she wouldn’t have survived until now.
“You can choose not to believe me, but you can’t deny that when two people have mutual interests, they can help each other. I don’t want you to die because you’re useful.”
Cynthia narrowed her eyes, trying to see if he was lying through his gaze, but it was unfathomable. His eyes were deep and dark, and they were intimidating.
“Why do you think I’m useful? Are you Theo’s enemy?” she asked.
The man patted her hand.
Cynthia looked down; he was wearing black gloves. She didn’t pull her hand back.
“Miss Zeller, what do you think is more important–Theodore Spencer, or your life? If you think he’s more important, I can leave now, and we can pretend we never met. If you think your life is more important, I can assure you that within a week, I’ll get you a matching heart. The condition is, we’ll be friends from now on,” said the man.
ENJOYING THE BOOK?
When he said the word “friends“, it was clearly in quotes. Cynthial
–
knew this no one in the world would make friends this way.
Ulterior motives like these were only driven by self–interest.
Cynthia suddenly burst into laughter
“Of course Theo is very important to me! You’re ridiculous to think that you can get me a heart. Theo hasn’t even managed it yet, but you say you can.”
The man took a phone from his pocket, and tapped it a few times. Suddenly, the hospital alarm blared, the sound shrill and ear–piercing.
Cynthia became tense, and her face turned pale. “What did you do?”
“Nothing, just playing with the alarm. Listen to how nervous people
outside are.”
He stood up, and straightened his coat.
“It seems you truly love Theodore, Miss Zeller. You don’t doubt his sincerity at all. In that case, we can’t be friends–though I admire you. Love is more important to you than your own life. It’s commendable. Maybe when you get to the underworld, the King of Hell will show you
mercy.”
He walked to the door, and opened it to leave.
Cynthia clenched the bedsheet; instinctively, she blurted out, “Wait!! don’t even know who you are! How do I know if you’re telling the truth? If you want to be friends with me, you have to prove it!”
The man turned, and asked slowly, “If I can prove it to you, will you accept my proposal?”
Cynthia said nervously, “That depends on how you’ll prove it to me.” The man raised his hand, and pulled down his hat. “I’ll come find you again. Remember, don’t play tricks with me. I know everything about you, including what you did abroad.”
When Cynthia heard this, she was thunderstruck.
How did this man know?!
No, it was impossible! He must be trying to scare her!
Knowing she had been abroad wasn’t difficult, but how would he know what had happened there?
Just then, the medical staff burst into the room and announced, Miss Zeller, we need to transfer you.
They were about to move Cynthia’s bed when suddenly, the alarm stopped.
A voice came over the intercom. “Due to a system malfunction, the alarm was triggered. The issue has been resolved. It is safe, so don’t worry. Staff, please return to your posts.”
Cynthia recalled how the man had tapped his phone earlier. It seemed. he had some control over the hospital.
Who was he? Could he really find a matching heart for her? Where would he go to look for it?
Cynthia was shocked.
This was what the doctor told Theodore when he called.
Today, the hospital alarm malfunctioned and scared Cynthia.
Her heart was already weak, and this scare worried Theodore even
more, prompting him to rush to the hospital.
Cynthia looked haggard. “Theo, you’re here… I thought I’d never see you again.”
Theodore asked the doctor about her condition. Fortunately, Cynthia
had stabilized.
“It’s good you’re okay,” he said. “The hospital has assured me this won’t happen again.”
“Theo, let’s not fool ourselves. I’m not okay. I’m not going to get a heart in time, right?”
“I will find one for you!”
“How?” Cynthia asked. “I know how hard it is to find a heart, unless…”
ENJOYING THE BOOK?
“Unless what?” Theodore asked.
“Theodore, tell me honestly. Do you want to save me?” Cynthia asked.
“Of course I do! Cindy, I only hope for your good health. I’ll do everything in my power to help you.”
He genuinely wanted to save her.
“Then why can’t you find a heart?”
Cynthia thought about what the unknown man had said today. The chances were too slim, and she was terrified of dying. She didn’t want to perish alongside Rosalie–she wanted to live well, to send Rosalie to hell, and to live happily ever after with Theodore.
She wanted those wretches to not be able to rest, even in death.
“Hearts are the scarcest and hardest to match in the transplant database. Why do we have to wait?” Cynthia said anxiously. “You can
look elsewhere!”
Theodore frowned. “What do you mean?”
“Theo, aren’t there some underground businesses?” Cynthia’s eyes. were filled with anxiety and expectation at the same time. “Since certain items can be traded on the black market, then hearts can too!
It won’t be hard for you to find me a matching heart!”
If this man loved her, he would risk everything to help her. He had plenty of money, so’finding some “professionals” to get her a heart shouldn’t be difficult, right?
Theodore stared at Cynthia for a long time in silence.
When he first heard her say these words, he thought he had
TA
misunderstood. Yet after seeing her expression, he realized he hadn’t. He knew exactly what she wanted.
“Cindy, you should rest. I have some matters to attend to, so I’ll be leaving now.”
His injuries hadn’t fully healed yet, and his back ached. He had rushed to the hospital today and accidentally bumped into something, only to hear Cynthia say such shocking things.
Seeing Theodore’s reaction, Cynthia panicked. “Theo, what do you mean? Are you not going to help me find a heart?”
“I didn’t say that. Before finding a suitable heart, you’ll need the best medical resources to maintain your health. You won’t be in immediate danger as long as you stay in good spirits.”
After tucking her in, Theodore turned to leave.
“Theo.” Cynthia grabbed his wrist, and asked suspiciously, “Why do I feel like you’re unwilling?”
“Unwilling to do what?” Theodore asked coldly. “Unwilling to help you find a heart? Didn’t I say I’ve been searching all along?”
“But we haven’t found one yet until now!” Cynthia seemed unaware that she was hitting a nerve.
“Theo, you know the longer this drags on, the worse it is for me! Have you never thought of using other methods to help me?”
She didn’t want to die. Anyone could die, but not her!
“What methods are you talking about? Do you want me to find ruthless criminals to buy a heart? A heart from someone they kidnapped, knocked out, stuffed into a car, taken to a dreadful black room, emptied, and then disposed of? Is that the kind of heart you mean?”
Cynthia trembled in fear, panicking. “Theo, that’s not what I meant…”
“Then what do you mean?” Theodore retorted.
“I mean… There might be suitable hearts on the black market. Those hearts might not be from victims, but from people who sold them willingly.”
“Willingly?”
Theodore suddenly laughed, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
“Who would willingly sell their heart to organ traffickers? Do you think they’d take the money and buy themselves a coffin?”
Theodore was somewhat angry. Although he didn’t show it too much, his eyes held a fire that seemed ready to explode.
How could Cindy say such stupid things?
“Maybe some people would sacrifice themselves for their families to get money. There must be some,” Cynthia persisted.
Theodore shook his head helplessly–he had nothing more to say.
Seeing Theodore’s cold reaction, Cynthia became anxious.
“Are you saying you’re not willing to help me find one?”
She took the moral high ground.
“Do you not care about me anymore? You seem to be blaming me, as if I’m one of those criminals! But even if I don’t buy it, others will, and those shady industries will still exist!”
Theodore had never heard Cynthia say something so irrational.
He was furious. It was like someone justifying buying a bride by saying that even if they didn’t buy, others would, and the human trafficking would continue.
Wasn’t it true that without demand, there would be no harm?
Human nature was so despicable.
Theodore suddenly didn’t want to talk to Cynthia anymore.
Suppressing the pain in his back and his anger, he said coldly, “You need to calm down. Don’t contact me for the next few days. If anything comes up, call Yuvan.”
He was very disappointed in Cynthia. Never had he expected her to say such things.
To save her own life, she would sacrifice someone else’s. He never thought she could be that kind of person.
It seemed they both needed to calm down.
Cynthia watched Theodore leave. She realized where his bottom line
was.
She never expected what she said to touch his nerves. Buying a heart on the black market was something she thought would be easy, but he took it so seriously.
Was he implying that other people’s lives were more important than hers?
Theodore was about to open the door, when Cynthia suddenly called out, “Theo.”
She threw off her blanket, yanked out the needle from her hand, and fell off the bed with a thud. Crawling toward him, she begged, “Theo, don’t go! Listen to me!”
Theodore had just opened the door a crack when he heard the noise behind him. He turned around and saw Cynthia lying on the ground pathetically, crying bitterly.
“Cindy!” Theodore rushed to help her up. “What are you doing?”
“Theo, listen to me…” Cynthia clung to Theodore’s arm tightly.
“Let’s get you back to bed first.” Theodore tried to lift her back onto the bed, but Cynthia stubbornly sat on the floor.
“No! Theo, are you angry at me?”
“Let’s not talk about this now.” He frowned, trying to suppress his emotions, but it was clear he was holding back his frustration.
“Theo, I’m so sorry,” Cynthia said, sobbing. “I spoke out of turn just now. It’s all my fault! I didn’t think it through. I was just…just too scared. You know, sometimes I say things without thinking. I didn’t mean it.
“I won’t say such things again. I’m sorry! You’ve taught me a lesson today, and I understand now. I won’t have such thoughts anymore. You’re right, I’ll listen to you. I’ll change. Please give me a chance!
“I’ll be good and listen to you, so please don’t be angry at me! I’m really sorry! I know nothing. You’ve sheltered me so well, and I’m too narrow–minded. I really didn’t think it through. I understand now. Please continue to guide me in the future. I’ll be good!”
+
Cynthia cried hysterically, to the point it was tragic. She held onto Theodore’s arms tightly, pressing against his injured back.
Theodore frowned, and let out a muffled groan. Cynthia, in her intense crying, didn’t hear his discomfort.
“Theo, forgive me. I’m sorry. I won’t say such things again. I’ll wait patiently, even if I can’t get a heart. Please forgive me this time, I’m begging you!”
Suddenly, she clutched her chest. It was hard for her to breathe, and she fainted in Theodore’s arms.
“Cindy!” Theodore grabbed her chin and shook her face, then turned and shouted, “Doctor!”
The doctors worked hard to save Cynthia. Later, she was too weak to cry anymore, so she just lay quietly on the bed.
The medical monitor beeped steadily. Theodore stood by the bedside, sighing helplessly.
He had indeed said some harsh things, but considering her situation- so young and facing death–it was understandable that she would be afraid and therefore spoke without thinking.
Cynthia slowly opened her eyes. “Theo.”
Theodore stepped forward, and bent down. “Rest well. Don’t think too much and relax.”Nôvel(D)rama.Org's content.
“Do you still blame me? If… If you do, then don’t save me next time and just let me go. I don’t want to make you unhappy.”
+35 BONUS
“Don’t give me that nonsense,” Theodore said sternly. “You still have a long life ahead. As long as you know you were wrong and don’t say such things again.”
Everyone had said the wrong thing or harbored evil thoughts before.
While Theodore was busy blaming Cynthia for disregarding others‘ lives, he almost forgot that he once had a fleeting thought of killing Sebastian.
No one was a saint. If she hadn’t acted on it and knew to correct her mistake, it was forgivable.
Hearing Theodore say he wouldn’t blame her, Cynthia breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank you. I won’t say such things again. I’m really sorry.”
Theodore comforted her. “Just rest and leave everything else to me.”
Cynthia nodded obediently. “Okay, I’ll listen to you from now on.”
Cynthia was clever in some ways. Even if she accidentally said the wrong thing, she knew how to use her advantages to make a man feel sorry for her and forgive her.
Theodore took a white handkerchief from his suit pocket, and wiped. the sweat on his forehead.
“Theo, are you not feeling well?” Cynthia asked.
“I’m fine. You should rest. I have some things to attend to. For the next few days, contact Yuvan if you need anything. I’ll be very busy.”
He needed a few days to properly recover from his injuries. If he kept pushing himself, who knew when he would fully heal?
Cynthia was deeply upset. He had handed her over to his assistant instead of personally helping her solve her problems. What was this man thinking?
But she didn’t dare say it out loud, and could only nod. “Okay.”
After Theodore left, Cynthia’s pitiful expression immediately changed. Her eyes were now filled with anger and malice.
Theodore was so cruel! If he really cared about her, how could he
blame her? Would he blame Rosalie if Rosalie was in this situation
today?
He seemed to be more and more biased as time went on. So
Rosalie’s life was more important than her
Rosalie planned to go to another city to give birth in secret soon. Before leaving, she wanted to spend more time with her grandmother. Thus, she went to visit Rebecca the next day.
Rebecca frowned slightly upon seeing her. “Rose, why are you here again?”
“Grandma, what do you mean by ‘here again?” Rosalie pouted
unhappily. “It sounds like you’re tired of me. Didn’t you say that no matter what, I’m your granddaughter? Don’t you love me anymore?”
Rosalie said this on purpose; in reality, she wasn’t upset at all. She didn’t think that her grandmother would be annoyed by her as well, and was just being playful.
Rebecca smiled. “How could I not love you, Rose? I’m just worried about you being tired from all that running around.”
“I’m not tired.” Rosalie sat beside Rebecca, holding her arm. “Visiting
you makes me especially energetic and happy!”
“Oh, Rose! There’s a reason I love you so much,” Rebecca said, satisfied.
“Grandma.” Rosalie cautiously rested her head on her shoulder, not putting the full weight of her head on her.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. I just wanted to call you.”
‘Grandma, I’m sorry,‘ she silently apologized in her heart.
“Rose, do you have something on your mind? Tell me. Did Theodore make you unhappy again?”
“No, Grandma. Didn’t I tell you last time that I wanted to travel for a
few months?”
Rebecca nodded. “Yes, you did. Are you going now?”
Rosalie responded with an “um,” then said, “I’m planning to leave in a few days, so I won’t be able to see you for some time.”
Rebecca raised her hand, and gently patted Rosalie’s head. “It’s okay. I won’t hold you back. Don’t worry about me being unhappy. If traveling makes you happy, then I’m happy too.”
Rosalie felt a lump in her throat, and she almost cried.
‘Thank you, Grandma,‘ she thought.
“If you’re happy, I’m happy” were such simple words, but many people couldn’t live up to that.
Too many people said, “If you do this, I’ll be happy,” or think, “If I force you to do this, you’ll be happy later.”
Even many biological parents think that way. They didn’t realize that they were building their happiness on their children’s suffering.
Yet, Rebecca was different. She never made Rosalie unhappy, and always protected her.
“Rose, take the chance to explore the world. Remember to send me
videos.”
“Okay, Grandma. If you want, I’ll video chat with you every day so you can see me daily.”
With Rebecca being so old, seeing her more often would bring peace
of mind.
“Silly child.” Rebecca pinched Rosalie’s nose affectionately. “I don’t need that. I’m old, and I can’t chat every day. Just call me twice a
week. You don’t need to contact me every day.”
Her good granddaughter had grown up, and wanted to fly on her own. Rebecca felt the best she could do was not hold Rosalie back, and let
her have fun.
“Okay, Grandma, I know. I’ll listen to you, because I don’t want to leave you, either.”
Rosalie wanted to always stay by Rebecca’s side.
She even had an impulse to tell Rebecca about her pregnancy. She could imagine staying by Rebecca’s side, and giving birth to the baby. She wanted Rebecca to have a happy life, and to always smile.
s, huh?
However, if she really did that, things would only become more complicated.
She and Theodore were already divorced, but she was now suddenly pregnant with his child. Meanwhile, Cynthia was about to marry into the Spencer family. The scenario was so absurd that it was
unimaginable.
The only way to simplify things was for her to silently give birth to the child alone. This way, the problem would be solved.
“Rose, do you hate Theodore?” Rebecca suddenly asked.
Rosalie was startled, then sat up straight. “Grandma, why are you suddenly asking me this?”
“Answer me first. Do you hate him?”
Rosalie flashed Rebecca a small smile. Her gaze was calm as she said, “Grandma, I don’t hate him.”
“Really? He made so many mistakes and hurt you, so much.”
“Yes, he hurt me, but it’s not wrong to not love someone. If not loving someone is a mistake, then we’re all in the wrong. We can’t love every single person in this world.”
“You’re always defending him, and you never put yourself first. You’re
too kind.”
Rebecca loved Rosalie because she was so kind, but sometimes, Rosalie’s kindness broke Rebecca’s
Kind people often made others happy, but suffered on their own. They swallowed their suffering and always pretended to be happy on the
outside, but would lick their own wounds in private.
“Grandma, he defends me too.” Rosalie held her hand. “That’s why you beat him up with your walking cane. You were really ruthless! He was groaning in pain at home.”
The last few words were said with a theatrical tone, painting a vivid picture.
“Really?” Rebecca laughed, as if the one injured wasn’t her grandson. He deserved it! He needed the lesson. If he pushed all the blame on you, I would’ve broken his leg on the spot. Fortunately he didn’t, so he just got some light injuries on his back.”
“Grandma, don’t do that again next time. Theo’s quite pitiful. His
parents didn’t give him the care he needed as a child. He was very lonely. You know the situation with my in–laws. Theo must have had a hard time growing up.”
Though Rosalie was defending Theodore by asking Rebecca not to punish him anymore, the main reason was because she knew Rebecca’s heart also ached when she punished Theodore.
Rebecca sighed. “Yes, but no matter what his childhood was like, he should be responsible for his decisions as an adult. When you make a mistake, you should be punished.”
“But he’s already been punished. Even though you hit him, he wasn’t angry with you or me. When my mother–in–law deliberately made things difficult for me, he pulled me behind him to protect me. I never expected he’d still do that even after our divorce. He’s already done
his best.”
Rosalie remembered the scene vividly. He was willing to argue with his parents for her sake. He still protected her even after the divorce, which was something not everyone would do.
“Really? Was Sydney particularly harsh and fierce to you?” Rebecca
asked.
Rosalie nodded. “Yes. Mom was in a bad mood for some reason. She wasn’t like this before. I’m puzzled as well.”
Rebecca said, “Don’t blame her.”
Rosalie nodded. “I won’t, Grandma. I don’t have any reason to hold a grudge against her. I think Mom’s quite lonely, too.”
“Yes, she’s rather pitiful. If I could turn back time, I wouldn’t have let her marry Wesley. It’s also my fault. But I asked you not to blame her not because she is pitiful, but because she had another reason for being harsh to you.”
Rosalie was puzzled. “Grandma, what do you mean?”
“When she was harsh to you, what did you see?”
“I…” Rosalie was confused. “I just saw Mom being harsh to me.”
Rebecca chuckled, and raised her hand to flick Rosalie’s forehead. Silly girl. I mean, what did Sydney’s harshness result in?”
Rosalie rubbed her forehead, feeling a bit dazed from the flick.
“It resulted in…” She thought for a moment, and then tentatively said, It resulted in Theo arguing with her.”
“That’s right,” Rebecca said. “You finally got it.”
“Theo argued with his mother to protect you. Think about it! Why would Sydney, who’s so smart, pick on you for no reason? Only an idiot would do that. Do you think she’s an idiot?”
With Rebecca’s prompt, Rosalie suddenly understood something. Grandma… You mean, Mom was harsh to me on purpose just to see Theo’s reaction?”
“Yes,” Rebecca said. “Continue guessing, and be bold.”
The more Rosalie thought about it, the more incredible it seemed.
“Grandma, was Mom trying to show me Theo’s reaction?”
Now, it made sense why Sydney seemed to have suddenly changed. Sydney was smart and capable, and she was strong to boot. Though she was serious and cold, she was definitely not narrow–minded. She wouldn’t pick on someone for no reason.
“Yes,” Rebecca continued. “She wanted to show you that Theo will still protect you if you’re getting harassed. She wanted to make one last effort to see if she could salvage your relationship, even if it meant getting misunderstood by you. She just didn’t expect the conflict with her son to turn out like that, nor did she expect him to bring up his childhood issues.”
“How did you know, Grandma?” Rosalie asked in wonder.
Rebecca wasn’t there at the time, but from her tone, it seemed like she knew everything that had happened.
Rebecca said frankly, “Would it be hard for me to find out?”
Rosalie immediately understood, and nodded without asking further. It was nothing unusual for Rebecca to know; she must have talked to
the servants or the butler.
“In that case, Mom must feel very wronged. She was in a bad mood when she left, and Dad even chased after her. I don’t know what happened after that.” Rosalie was a bit worried.
Rebecca picked up her phone, typed something, and then clicked send.
Rosalie soon received a message. Rebecca turned around and said, ” She’s staying in this apartment. You can go see her.”
“Okay, I’ll call her before I go,” Rosalie said.
“No, just go directly. If you call now, she won’t answer, and she’ll reject you outright. I know about the conflict between her and Theodore that day, so she must be very sad. I’ve asked, and she hasn’t gone to the bank these days. She’s been working remotely from home. If you go to her now, she’ll be home. Surprise her, and have a good chat with her,” Rebecca said.
Chapter 311
“Isn’t it impolite? What if she gets angry?” Rosalie said worriedly.
“She should be feeling more sad than angry now,” Rebecca said. “She needs comfort. Actually, there are many things I want to talk to her about, but she’s not close to any of the Spencers right now. Since you and Theodore are divorced, you and Sydney have many similarities. So if you go, she won’t be angry with you.”
“Grandma, I don’t know what to talk about with Mom.”
“Do you not want to go?” Rebecca asked. “If you don’t want to, it’s okay. I won’t force you.”
“It’s not that,” Rosalie explained. “I just…don’t know what to say.”
“Don’t be nervous.” Rebecca patted her hand. “Once you’re there, you’ll know. You don’t need to say grand things or a lot of comforting words. As a woman, just speak from the heart.”
Rebecca’s simple words enlightened Rosalie. “I understand, Grandma.”
Rebecca didn’t have Rosalie stay for lunch. Before lunchtime arrived, she had already sent Rosalie off to have lunch with Sydney.
Actually, Rosalie had planned to go after preparing herself. She didn’t expect Rebecca to tell her to go now.
Rosalie knew that Rebecca cared a lot about Sydney. Now, Sydney and Wesley weren’t on good terms. Although Rebecca wanted to help Sydney, she was a Spencer, so Sydney felt somewhat distanced from her. She thought Rebecca was mainly acting for her son’s sake.
However, if Rosalie went, it would be much better. After all, Rosalie had also suffered in love and was now divorced, making her more relatable to Sydney.
Rosalie originally didn’t want to get involved in these matters. After all, she couldn’t even figure out her own life, let alone meddle in someone else’s decades-long affairs.
But since this was Rebecca’s wish, she naturally wanted to make Sydney feel better.
Plus, due to previous misunderstandings with Sydney, Rosalie wanted to clear things up so no one would feel uncomfortable.
Rosalie followed the address to Sydney’s apartment. It was a high-end apartment accessible only to residents, but Rebecca had informed her that this property belonged to the Spencers and arrangements had been made.
She entered without any hindrance.
Rosalie took the elevator to the floor where Sydney lived. After a few
seconds of mental preparatione
rang the doorbell.
rands of mental prepara el
Before the door opened, she stood up straight, rehearsing in her mind what she wanted to say.
“Hi Mom, I’m here to see you.”
That didn’t sound right.
“Mom, Grandma gave me your address. She was a bit worried about you, so she sent me to check on you.”
“Mom, have you eaten? I came to have lunch with you.”
Rosalie scratched her head. She hadn’t prepared properly; maybe she shouldn’t have come in such a hurry today.
She waited for about ten seconds, but no one answered. Maybe Sydney wasn’t home.
Rosalie felt quite nervous.
Not being home was good. She
et
would have an excuse to leave. She could tell Rebecca she came,
Sydney wasn’t home, so she would
come again next time. Content
belongs to
Just as Rosalie turned to leave, the door suddenly opened, so she had no choice but to stay.
She turned around to speak, but seeing the person in front of her left her stunned.
Wesley, in his pajamas and with disheveled hair, asked coldly, “What are you doing here?”
Rosalie looked him up and down, noticing scratch marks on his r and lipstick on his chin. The entire
situation seemed ambiguo et
Belongs to © NôvelDrama.Org.
Chapter 312
“I…” Rosalie scratched her nose awkwardly. “Dad, what are you doing here?”
Could this be Wesley’s residence? And what about the lipstick on his chin and the scratch marks on his neck? Could he be here with another woman? As Rosalie was contemplating this, a voice came from inside the room. “Wesley, who is it?”
Rosalie’s heart skipped a beat. Wasn’t that Sydney’s voice?
Wesley turned his head. “It’s Rosalie.”
Soon, Rosalie heard the sound of footsteps. She saw Sydney with her long hair down and in a silver silk nightgown, tying a belt around her waist as she walked.
Rosalie’s mind buzzed. When she saw Sydney’s sultry appearance and the kiss marks on her neck, she instantly understood what happened. Never had she expected the two of them to…
She had thought Sydney hated Wesley. They had been separated for many years, but she hadn’t imagined…
Rosalie didn’t dare think about the details because the images were already forming in her mind.
Compared to Rosalie’s shock, Sydney seemed very calm. She didn’t seem flustered about being discovered, but then again, there was nothing for them to be afraid of. They were a legitimate couple.
Wesley didn’t hide either, but there was some displeasure in his eyes. He seemed annoyed by the interruption.
A lazy female voice brought Rosalie back to reality. “Why are you here?”
“I… I came to see you and talk to you,” Rosalie said.
“Really?” Sydney walked forward slowly and leaned against the door frame. “What do you want to talk about? Your grandmother sent you, right?” Sydney was smart, and guessed the truth right away.
Rosalie didn’t hide it, and nodded. “Yes, she gave me the address. I thought you were alone. I didn’t expect you and Dad to be together.”
Sydney turned around, and gave Wesley a cold glance. Rosalie quickly said, “Dad, Mom, since you’re busy, I’ll leave and come back another time.” Rosalie was about to turn and leave when Sydney called her back. “Wait a minute.”
Rosalie turned around. “Mom, is there anything else?”
Sydney glanced at Wesley coldly. “You can leave now.”
Wesley was stunned. He thought his wife was talking to Rosalie, but she was kicking him out instead.Nôvel(D)rama.Org’s content.
“Why?” He didn’t understand. Their intimate moment was interrupted. Shouldn’t they continue by sending the intruder away?
“What are you looking at?” Sydney
urged when Wesley didn’t move. “Go put on your clothes and leave. Take all your things with you and don’t leave a single thing. If I find that you left something behind, you don’t need to come over anymore.”
Sydney’s tone was unyielding, not caring that Rosalie was still there.
Rosalie felt awkward, and her eyes darted around. She didn’t know where to look to avoid this stifling scene.
Wesley’s face was unusually grim, t
but he didn’t dare say anything.
Most people might be angry even when not saying anything, but he didn’t even dare to be angry.
He glanced at Rosalie with
resentment, as if blaming her for ruining his good time. Rosalie didn’t
look at him, but she knew how much he resented her at that
moment-she shivered. Content
belongs to
Wesley turned back into the room, and Sydney beckoned Rosalie with a finger.
“Come in.”
Chapter 313
Rosalie bit the bullet, and walked in.
“Have a seat. I’ll go change my clothes.”
Sydney’s figure swayed gracefully as she walked toward a room. Rosalie stared at her back, stunned.
Sydney had maintained herself well. Her appearance was outstanding-full of charm young women didn’t have. She looked like she was in her early thirties.
If Rosalie didn’t know, she would have thought that Sydney and Theodore were actually siblings instead of mother and son.
Soon, Rosalie heard a sound coming from the room.
“Sydney, are you sure you want me to go now?”
“Wesley, if you say disgusting things again, I’ll kick you out myself. Shut up while you can still walk out on your own two legs!”
Rosalie shuddered uncomfortably. If she had known, she wouldn’t have come no matter what.
Not long after, Wesley came out of the room dressed in a sharp suit.
Rosalie had to admit that even though Wesley was a middle-aged man, he had an extraordinary appearance. He was like the handsome older man in dramas, and he seemed to be getting more and more handsome as time went by.
With such good genes, it was no wonder Theodore looked so good.
It was a pity-being good-looking was one thing, being scum was another. He was a bastard. He regretted it in the end, and even turned into a lapdog.
As Rosalie thought about it, she suddenly found it amusing and chuckled.
Upon hearing the laughter, Wesley glanced at her as he passed by. “What are you laughing at? Is it funny?”
Rosalie quickly suppressed her smile, and said seriously, “Nothing. I just suddenly remembered encountering a cute kitten on the way here.”
She made up an excuse on the spot.
Wesley mouthed, “You ruined my good mood.”
Rosalie kept her head down and didn’t dare to speak. It wasn’t until she heard Wesley’s footsteps gradually fading away that she breathed a sigh of relief.This material belongs to NôvelDrama.Org.
At this moment, the door of the room opened again. Sydney walked over, already dressed neatly.
“Do you want something to drink?” she asked.
Rosalie shook her head. “No, thank you.”
“If you don’t need anything, then forget it.”
Sydney turned around and went to the open kitchen, poured herself a cup of coffee, and then sat on the sofa with the coffee not far from
Rosalie. She took a sip of coffee,
and then placed it on the co
table.
“What brings you here?”
“I came to see you, and I also wanted to talk about last time.”
et
“Last time?” Sydney smiled faintly. “Are you here to settle scores with me for making things difficult for you last time? Oh, I see. Your grandmother is backing you up, right?”
“Huh? No, no.” Rosalie quickly waved
her hand, and explained, “Of course not, Mom. Grandma told me you deliberately made things difficult for me just so you could see Theo’s reaction.”
Sydney chuckled lightly, lounging on the sofa lazily with her legs crossed. “You believe whatever your
grandmother says? What if I say et
I
was just picking on you because i didn’t like you, and I intentionally made things difficult for you? What then?”
Rosalie hesitated for a moment, not knowing how to answer. Even so, she could feel that Sydney wasn’t that kind of person.
She couldn’t answer this question, so she changed the topic. “Why is Dad here? I thought you and him…”
“You thought our relationship was bad, and that we’ve been separated for many years, right?”
Rosalie nodded. “Did you two reconcile?”
Sydney laughed. She picked up a pack of cigarettes from the coffee table, took one out, and lit it with a lighter before taking a deep drag. It was evident she was a frequent smoker.
“Hello dear reader… I have some issues with my websit
Chapter 314
Sydney’s smoking appearance was particularly charming the alluring way she exhaled smoke was incredibly sexy. Even though Rosalie was a woman, she felt attracted to Sydney. If she were a man, she would be tempted.
Rosalie really didn’t know who Wesley loved so much back then to mistreat Sydney like this. There was a beauty right in front of him, so why didn’t he cherish her?
It was really true what they said-if a man wanted to cheat, he would find a way.
Rosalie didn’t know what Sydney was laughing at.
Sydney took another drag of smoke, and exhaled it. “No, it’s still the same.”
Rosalie was puzzled, “Then why is he…”
“Why is he here, and why am I sleeping with him?”
Rosalie smiled awkwardly. “It’s okay if you don’t want to talk about it.”
“There’s nothing to hide.” Sydney flicked the ash off her cigarette. “People have needs, and I can’t be alone all the time. Having a sexual partner is okay, and Wesley is quite capable in that aspect. He can fulfill my needs.”
Rosalie was at a loss for words.
Sydney seemed so at ease, but then again, they were husband and wife. Adults couldn’t always abstain, so maintaining a relationship like that was okay.
Rosalie suddenly realized that Sydney was very rational. She kept a distance from Wesley emotionally, and only focused on physical sensations. This wasn’t too bad.
Sydney didn’t care about emotions and just wanted pleasure, but Rosalie knew she couldn’t live like this. Maybe she still couldn’t hate Theodore wholeheartedly. If she truly hated him, she wouldn’t let Theodore even touch her.This belongs to NôvelDrama.Org – ©.
She couldn’t be as open-minded as Sydney.
Seeing Rosalie not speaking, Sydney said indifferently, “What’s wrong? Do you think what I’m doing is wrong? I don’t love him, but I’m still sleeping with him. You think it’s strange, right?”
“That’s not it.” Rosalie shook her head and explained herself. “I’ve never seen you that way. These are your affairs with Dad, and I absolutely won’t comment. You can live life however you want it.”
They were both adults, not children who needed to be raised. Moreover, Rosalie felt like she didn’t have the right to tell them what to do.
Sydney pressed the cigarette butt into the ashtray. “How’s Theodore?”
Actually, Sydney had allowed Rosalie to stay so that she could ask about Theodore.
“Theo… ” Rosalie paused, looking hesitant.
Sydney frowned. “Why are you in a daze? Hurry up and speak.”
Theodore was her son, and after what happened last time, she was naturally worried.
et
“Mom… That night, Theo had a nightmare. He kept calling for you, saying that when he grew up, he would take care of you and protect you. But in his dream, it seemed like you weren’t by his side, and he was very scared.”
Sydney’s hand suddenly trembled, and she clenched her clothes tightly. She then took out another cigarette from the cigarette box, put it between her lips, and lit it with a
snap. She puffed on it again.
“Is that so?” Sydney smiled a small smile. “Even at this age, he still wants his mother. How childish of him.”
Rosalie frowned. “Mom, is that really what you think?”
“Isn’t it true?” Sydney said, her tone
indifferent. “He’s already in his
et
twenties. He shouldn’t expect his mother to be by his side all the time. That would be terrifying. If he became a mama’s boy, I would be ashamed.”
“Mom, you know he’s not like that.” Rosalie was somewhat upset. “His trauma comes from being lonely as a child, and your rocky relationship with Dad had a big impact on him.”
Chapter 315
“There are many things in this world that might have influenced him,” Sydney said coldly. “You also lost your parents when you were young. Isn’t it said that children without parents are prone to going astray? Yet, you seem fine and seem to be on the right path.”
Hearing Sydney’s icy tone, Rosalie couldn’t believe it for a moment.
She immediately said, “That’s because Grandma took care of me. Even though my parents passed away, I still received a lot of love. I wasn’t alone, but it was different for Theo. Although he has parents, when he was young, his father was far from his mother, and his mother…”
Rosalie realized she was being impulsive, and stopped herself. If she continued, she would probably offend Sydney. She didn’t want to argue with Sydney; she came to reconcile with her, not to quarrel.
“What about his mother?” Sydney asked, her tone somewhat cold as she stared at Rosalie fixedly. “Go on.”
Seeing Rosalie still silent, Sydney helped her out. “His mother also doesn’t care about him. Is that what you wanted to say?”
Rosalie explained, “I didn’t mean to blame you. I just wanted to say…”Exclusive content © by Nô(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.
“Enough,” Sydney interrupted. “I know what you want to say. I didn’t expect that to happen last time, either. Later, I thought about calling him, but I didn’t know what to say.”
“How about you two have a meal together?” Rosalie suggested.
“Have a meal together?” Sydney seemed hesitant.
Rosalie watched Sydney’s unusual reaction in disbelief, and asked, “You mean, you’ve never had a meal with your son before?”
Sydney pursed her lips helplessly. “We rarely meet. Over time, I don’t know how to get along with the Spencers anymore.”
“You’re his mother, not a stranger. You’re also part of the Spencers. Don’t you plan to talk to Theo?” Rosalie asked.
Sydney’s posture was no longer as relaxed as before; she seemed somewhat uncomfortable now. “He probably doesn’t want to see me now.”
“How would you know if you never
asked?” Rosalie said. “After so many years, know some things are not
easy,
OM
You have to try, and think
Theo…”
She paused, trying to organize her thoughts and express her feelings in the best way possible.
“What about him?” Sydney pressed. “Stop leaving me hanging like that. You always don’t finish your sentences.”
“Mom, I didn’t mean to keep you in suspense I was just thinking of how to convey the fact that Theo actually cares a lot about you. He wouldn’t dream of you at night if he didn’t. It’s rather sad.”
Sydney’s face was expressionless. It was unclear what she was thinking.
The corners of her mouth lifted
el
slightly, and she said, “He has never taken the initiative to contact me. I thought he didn’t have any feelings for me.”
Rosalie asked, “Is that why you haven’t taken the initiative to contact him?”
Sydney’s silence already gave Rosalie the answer. Rosalie found it somewhat ridiculous.
“Because of a misunderstanding, both of you haven’t contacted each other once and are in a deadlock. It’s such a pity!”
Sydney was rendered speechless.
“Mom, just listen to me. Take the initiative to contact him,” Rosalie advised. “I’m sure he won’t reject you.”
“What if he does? I’d be very embarrassed,” Sydney said, a little uneasy.
Chapter 316
Belongs to NôvelDrama.Org – All rights reserved.
“Oh, please. You’re his biological mother. Why would you be afraid of things being awkward? He’s your son, for goodness’s sake!” Rosalie said. She couldn’t understand. Did Sydney forget how to be a mother?
Sydney turned around to glance at her.
“I almost forgot that you’re a mother now.” Her gaze landed on Rosalie’s belly. “Still not intending to announce it?”
Rosalie caressed her belly as she shook her head. “I told Grandma that I’m traveling.”
“Seems like you’re bent on keeping it a secret till the end.”
“Thanks for helping me to keep it under wraps, Mom.”
Sydney had long known of Rosalie’s pregnancy, but never mentioned it to anyone. She was clearly a woman of her word.
Sydney shrugged. “Since I promised you not to talk about it, of course I wouldn’t. I know that if I let the cat out of the bag, it’ll only make things difficult for you. But do you really intend to hide the baby from Theodore forever?”
“We’ll talk about it when the time comes. I just want to deliver the baby by myself. It might be troublesome if he found out about it right now. He’s about to marry Cynthia, after all.”
Sydney could sense Rosalie’s eyes dimming. “Do you really think Theodore loves Cynthia to death, and is willing to sacrifice everything just to marry her?”
Rosalie smiled bitterly. “Isn’t that exactly what he’s already doing?”
It wasn’t her own opinion, but a fact.
Anyway, her feelings on this matter were no longer important.
“Is there anything you need help with? I can make arrangements with the hospitals and nearby apartments wherever you’re planning to travel to,” Sydney offered.
“Thanks, Mom, but I can handle it myself.”
Rosalie was already planning to give birth to the baby herself and raise it on her own. If she couldn’t even handle something as minor as this, how could she be a mother in time to come?
It wasn’t easy being a mother. It wasn’t just about giving birth and feeding the child. She knew it was going to be tough, and that it was a huge responsibility.
Therefore, she had to learn how to solve problems by herself.
Sydney seemed to know what was going through Rosalie’s mind, and didn’t force her.
She picked up her phone on the coffee table and swiped on the screen, looking as though she wanted to call someone.
“Mom, are you calling Theodore?” Rosalie asked,
“Didn’t you advise me to talk to him?”
Rosalie smiled. “He’ll be very happy to hear from you.”
“Don’t be so sure about that,” Sydney said. “What if he rejects me?”
As she spoke, she hit the call button. After a while, a deep voice came from the phone.
“Hello.”
“It’s me,” Sydney said-there was
slight
mainic in her voice, but she
I her usual cool dem
fenough to cover up her nerves.
“I know.” Theodore’s voice sounded ally cool. They didn’t sound li and son talking over
. “What’s the matterent belongs to
“I want to ask you out for a meal.”
Sydney puffed away at one cigarette after another, clearly betraying her
nervousness, although she
et
managed to keep her tone calm. She looked just like a head honcho with the ability of keeping cool no matter how antsy she actually felt. Content
belongs to
Theodore remained silent for a long time before saying, “Why the sudden invitation?”
“No particular reason. Just tell me if you want to or not.”
Rosalie wanted to tug her hair out of her scalp as she listened to their conversation. Was this the way to talk to your own son? Theodore clearly sounded upset. “No, I’m busy.”
“I see,” Sydney said; she didn’t care to do her darnedest to salvage the situation. “Since you’re busy, then let’s forge-“
Chapter 317
Rosalie tugged Sydney’s sleeve and pulled at it, shaking her head profusely at her.
She mouthed, “Ask him when he’s free, and that you can wait.”
The corner of Sydney’s mouth twitched. She coughed dryly, and put out the cigarette between her fingers.
“In that case, when are you free? You can’t possibly be busy all the time, can you?”
“I’m busy all the time.”
His heartless rejection made Sydney’s brows furrow. A piercing pain shot through her chest. She could sense that Theodore didn’t want to have a meal with her, or even see his own mother.
Before Rosalie could say anything further, Sydney decided that she would give it another shot. “Are you sure you aren’t free? Not even for half an hour?”
“I’m sorry, no.”
Sydney’s grip over her phone tightened, and she chuckled helplessly. “Alright, then. Go ahead and be busy. I won’t bother you anymore.” Sydney was about to hang up when Rosalie snatched the phone from her hand and said to the man on the line, “Theodore Spencer!”
Theodore was surprised to hear a familiar voice calling out his name. “Rose, is that you?”
“Yes, it’s me.” Rosalie said, “I’m with your mother.”
“What are you doing with her?”
“Don’t bother with that. Why did you reject your mother’s invitation for a meal?”
“I’m not free.”Property © 2024 Nô(v)elDrama.Org.
“As if!” Rosalie said sternly. “Don’t give me that! You have time to visit Cynthia, act so ridiculously, throw temper tantrums, and drag me back home in the middle of the night…but you don’t have time for a meal with your mother? Who are you trying to kid?”
Sydney stared at Rosalie, wide-eyed and in disbelief. Never had she expected to see such a bold and unrestrained side of her daughter-in-law.
When Rosalie was berating Theodore, she sounded as if she were scolding a child.
Theodore seemed equally shocked by Rosalie’s words, and fell silent for a long time.
The high and mighty CEO of SK
Enterprise, who was always
shouting at his employees, was now being scolded by his own wife and he didn’t even have the guts to talk back.
“Why aren’t you talking?” Rosalie said, her brows furrowed. “Say something!”
“Do you really want me to have a meal with her?” Theodore asked.
“Don’t you want to?”
“I don’t,” Theodore said coldly.
“Theo, don’t throw a tantrum, alright? Don’t you know what your heart wants?” Rosalie said in a huff. “I heard all that night, when you were talking in your sleep. You were crying out for your mom. Don’t tell me you don’t remember that happening.”
“Who’s crying out for Mom? You’re babbling nonsense,” Theodore denied awkwardly.
“Am I? Or are you the one lying through your teeth? Don’t you feel your conscience getting pricked?”
“Rose, I…”
“Theo, I’m giving you two options right now. You either decide on a date and time to have a meal with your mom and talk things through without fighting, or I’ll pretend to not know you and we’ll cut all contact from now on. Since you can even be bothered to talk to your own mom, why bother keeping in contact with your ex-wife?”
“Rose, that’s two separate matters. I was just…”
“Just what?” Rosalie cut him off. “You have two options. Take your pick.”
Rosalie sounded autocratic, like a queen who wouldn’t take no for an answer. Theodore gaped in astonishment at how overbearing she sounded. “I…” he said with a flinch, “I choose the first one.”
Chapter 318
“Alright. I’ll hand the phone over to your mom. Set the date and time between yourselves.”
Rosalie handed the phone back to Sydney.
Sydney was still stunned from what Rosalie had just done, but managed to take the phone from her and put it to her ear.
Theodore said something to her before she nodded and said, “Alright, I got it.”
“Alright, then.”
“Okay, goodbye.”
Sydney hung up, and turned to say to Rosalie, “I’ve set the date and venue of our meeting.”
Rosalie heaved a sigh of relief. She was just trying her luck just now, and didn’t really expect her attempt to turn out successful.
“That’s good. I just hope you two can have a good talk. Please don’t end up fighting. You two have already missed out on so much time together, so you should treasure every moment you have together. You two are mother and son, after all. I know you love your son, and that Theo really needs you,” she said.
“But I really have no idea how to be a mother. I’m too trapped in my own world. I’ve lived like this for my entire life. I can’t hold a candle to even someone as young as you,” Sydney said, sounding quite guilty.
She sighed.Belongs to (N)ôvel/Drama.Org.
Rosalie drew closer to her, and patted her shoulder. “It’s alright. It’s not too late.”
Sydney held Rosalie’s hand. “Can you come with me on that day? I might get nervous alone.”
“Go with you? But won’t I interrupt your mother and son time?”
“No such thing,” Sydney said. “We are mother and son, but if it weren’t for you, we might not even have the chance for alone time like this. With you there, you can act as a buffer and prevent any accidents from happening.”
Rosalie pondered for a moment before nodding. “Alright, then.”
Just then, Sydney’s phone rang again. She answered the call.
“Hello? Didn’t I tell you not to approve the loan? What did you say? Send me information on Regent Co.”
After a few simple words, Sydney hung up.
“Mom, is the Regent Co. you mentioned the local company of the same name?”
Sydney nodded. “It is,” she confirmed.
“Why won’t you approve the loan? Isn’t the company doing well?”
“It looks like it’s doing well, but its growth has been so aggressive and way too quick, it’s inevitable that problems are going to occur. I’ve had my team dig up some
information, and after check
through them, I couldn’t find any issues whatsoever. I still think there’s something off about it, though.”
“Mom, do you still have the information with you?” Rosalie asked.
Sydney nodded. “Yes, I do. Do you want to take a look at them?”
Rosalie nodded. “May I? I’ve done some research on financial institutions, when I was still studying, and came across many cases regarding this company. I want to take this opportunity to learn more and read more.”
Sydney crooked a finger. “Come with me.”
Rosalie followed Sydney into her home office.
Sydney hauled an entire box of documents from her cupboard, which landed on the table with a heavy thud.
Rosalie’s head buzzed.
“Take a look.”
“Mom, did you finish reading all the documents inside?”
“No,” Sydney said as she leaned
casually against the edge of the
table I read only a few docum
and was too lazy to go on content
belongs to
“Then why did you say that you couldn’t find any issues with the company?”
Rosalie thought Sydney read through all the information her team found.
“Yes, I read a few pages and couldn’t find any issues, so I didn’t continue,” Sydney remarked casually.
Chapter 319
Rosalie didn’t know what to say at that point. Sydney’s words seemed to make sense, and she couldn’t say anything to refute it.
“Do you still want to read through them?” Sydney asked.
Rosalie nodded. “I do, but can I bring them back?”
“Don’t bother. Just read through them here, and go back whenever you’re done. It’s tiring to take back so many documents.”
“But…” Rosalie flipped through the documents in the box. “There are just too many documents. One day isn’t enough for me to go through them all. Also, I have to analyze and think through the data, and even do some checking. I think…”
“Don’t worry about it. Just stay here overnight. I have everything you need anyway, so feel free to use them. Oh, yes. There’s food in the fridge. You can cook lunch this afternoon, or order takeout. I have something to attend to, and I need to head out. I’ll buy some clean underwear for you before I come home later.”
In light of Sydney’s offer, Rosalie had no choice but to nod her head in agreement for the sake of convenience. “Thanks, Mom.”
Rosalie shuddered when she glanced at the box of documents again. Looks like she has to stay up the entire night… Soon after, Sydney changed and left.
Rosalie sat in Sydney’s home office and pulled out the documents from the box, reading through the information page by page.
With all the complicated data in the documents, Rosalie was afraid that she might forget what she read and wanted to get some paper to jot down notes. She randomly pulled open a drawer on her right.
A photograph lay right inside the drawer.
It was Theodore in his younger days. He was absolutely adorable as a child, his eyes large, bright, and beautiful.
Rosalie’s right thumb caressed his face and lips, her lips subconsciously curving into a smile.
Her smile eventually faded as she sighed.
What a pity that such an adorable little angel ended up being such a bastard.
After putting the photograph where it was found, Rosalie closed the drawer.
It was clear to her how much Sydney cared for her son. She simply didn’t wear her heart on her sleeve, which was a trait that Theodore shared.
When Sydney returned home at night, she found Rosalie still reading through the documents. She was taking notes while pouring through the documents, marking them out, and even doing some research on her phone.
She was so immersed in the work that she didn’t notice that Sydney was home.
Sydney stood at the door of the study for a few minutes.Text © 2024 NôvelDrama.Org.
She wanted to see how long it would take Rosalie to notice her, but Rosalie was completely oblivious to her surroundings.
“Still busy? Did you take a break?” Sydney finally said.
At the sound of Sydney’s voice, Rosalie turned her head around. “Mom, you’re back.”
Sydney nodded. “It’s getting dark.”
Rosalie glanced at the clock, and realized that it was already seven in the evening. She had been busy with the documents for such a long time.
“You didn’t have lunch, did you?” Sydney knew that was true from the looks of it.
Rosalie’s lips twitched. “I forgot about it. There is just too much information in here, and I was so lost in them.”
“Still, you can’t forget to eat. You’re
pregnant remember?” Sydney placed a bag on the table. “I bought this for you. See what else you’re still lacking?”
“Thanks, I think I have all I need.”
Rosalie looked through the bag, and saw that everything she needed was inside. She was only going to stay for one night and didn’t need much, anyway. Content belongs t
Perhaps because she was sitting for too long, Rosalie felt a slight discomfort when she suddenly stood up and tried to stretch out her limbs. “Don’t keep sitting down. I’m going to prepare dinner, join me. Get your body moving. I’m sure even your baby finds it boring here.”
Sydney glanced at Rosalie’s belly.
Chapter 320
Rosalie nodded with a smile. “Okay.”
“Did you find anything after looking through all those documents?” Sydney asked.
Rosalie said, “They crunched their numbers so beautifully, it’s almost perfect. But I don’t think it’s possible for a large company to not encounter any issues at all, what with their sudden, rapid expansion within such a short period of time. Sometimes, the more perfect something seems, the greater the hidden issues-maybe even more so than something that appears imperfect.”
She went on, “What’s more, the share price of Regent Co. is very high right now. I have a feeling it’s going to be an open target.”
Sydney smiled. “Not bad, you have potential. Sometimes, however, it’s not enough to just judge based on a feeling. You have to present solid evidence to convince others.”
Rosalie nodded. “Okay. I’ll continue searching for it.”Content © 2024 (N/ô)velDrama.Org.
Sydney said, “Don’t be anxious. Take it easy. You must have patience in whatever you do.”
Rosalie nodded. “I got it.”
“But…” Sydney said doubtfully, “you’re so eager to look through information regarding Regent Co. and find something. Why do I feel like you have another motive aside from just curiosity and the desire to learn something?”
“I…” Rosalie smiled coyly.
She did have another motive, but it wasn’t for herself. She had heard about Regent Co. in Sebastian’s office, and knew that Skycrest Enterprise had lost to Regent Co.
Since she was in the know of something like this, she thought it a good idea to investigate matters and see if she could help.
“It’s fine, you don’t need to tell me.” Sydney pulled out some food from the fridge. “Can you help me wash some vegetables?”
“Sure.”
Rosalie stepped forward, and helped Sydney prepare dinner.
Things were pleasant between them.
Rosalie suddenly realized that Sydney didn’t feel as cold as she usually did. Perhaps after hanging out with her for long, she realized that Sydney was just cold on the outside.
Although Rosalie was divorced from Theodore, she had gotten used to calling Sydney “Mom”.
Sydney was used to it, too.
“Try this,” Sydney said as she spooned some food onto Rosalie’s plate. “Eat more.”
“Thanks, Mom. You have some, too.”
“Don’t be such a stranger,” Sydney said. “Since you call me ‘Mom’, I treat you as my daughter. I see the baby in your belly as my grandchild.” “Mom, you’ll be the first I tell once the baby is out.”
With one member of the Spencer family aware of her pregnancy, Rosalie suddenly didn’t feel so lonely anymore. At the very least, the grandmother of her baby knew of the baby’s presence.
“What about Theo? He has the right to know, too,” Sydney said.
Rosalie fell silent.
Sydney went on, “I’m not reprimanding you. I just think that you might not know how much Theo cares about you. I think he really likes you.”
Rosalie’s spoon fell into her soup
bowl with a clank; soup splattered
et
on the dining table and even her fingers. It felt hot to the touch, but her mind was in a mess. All sense of pain seemed to elude her as her entire body stiffened.
Sydney grabbed a napkin and handed it to her. “Wipe your hand with this.”
Rosalie snapped back to attention, and took the napkin from Sydney to wipe her fingers. “Mom, how are you so confident that he likes me?” “Do you think he hates you, then?” Sydney asked her back.
Rosalie pondered for a moment. “Even if he doesn’t hate me, he wouldn’t like me. Otherwise, why would he divorce me and marry Cynthia?”