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Chapter 118
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Leaving You Bereft Chapter 119
Willow wasn't suspicious at all, nor did she bother to correct the way Heather addressed her. She nodded and hummed in response. Heather's hand was trembling even more intensely now. She was wife to the wealthiest man in Yarrowmere, but her hands were shaking as she touched Willow's reddish mole. She was being so careful with it as if she were dealing with an invaluable treasure.Was Willow the beloved daughter she had lost?Heather's heart was filled with hope, but she was also afraid that it was all a big misunderstanding. Brushing her fingers across the back of Willow's head, she murmured, "Mrs. Ziegler, there was a strand of gray hair over here. Let me pluck it for you."Willow was startled for a moment. "I've never realized that I have gray hair."Heather gently plucked off a strand of black hair and let it rest on her palm. Then, she put on some fresh clothes for Willow. When she circled around to do the buttons, she slowed down, tears welling up in her eyes. If Willow
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 120
Timothy immediately held Heather's arm and steadied her. "What's wrong? Did something unpleasant happen at the party?"She slumped onto the couch. Gripping his clothes tightly, she said in a daze, "Timothy, I think I found my little girl. I told you about her. She has a mole on her waist, and I saw it on Willow tonight."Timothy, do you think she's the daughter I've been searching for all this time?"He asked anxiously, "Did you ask her about her background?"She nodded. "All I know is that she lived with her grandmother. All they had was each other."What a coincidence. Timothy put his hands on his back. He paced back and forth for a while before he stopped and said, "We're going to need proof for it."Proof?Heather took a silk handkerchief out of her pocket and unfolded it with trembling hands, revealing a strand of hair. Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke. "Timothy, I held myself back as best I could at the banquet. I made up an excuse and plucked a strand of her h
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 121
At dusk, the setting sun shone through the black metal fence of the house in the southern suburbs, casting a warm light over the hydrangeas in the courtyard.Grace was lying on a reclining chair, enjoying the evening breeze.Maureen was carefully peeling oranges right next to her.Suddenly, a gleaming black car pulled outside the yard. Heather, supported by Timothy, stepped inside.Grace glanced up and smiled. "What brings you here? Are you looking for Willow?"Heather's hair was disheveled. She stumbled forward, falling to her knees beside Grace's chair.Holding back her emotions, her voice trembled as she asked, "Wistonia Lane… Madam Harper, you once lived there, paying a rent of 200 dollars a month. "In winter, there was no hot water. If you wanted a warm bath, you had to walk miles to a public bathhouse."Grace's expression changed.As if realizing something, she nodded heavily.Heather's nails dug into the chair as tears welled up in her eyes. "22 years ago, you took in
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 122
As expected, tonight's auction was a huge success.Several well-known collectors sent representatives to bid on selected items at high prices, causing a frenzy that quickly went viral online.Just like that, Insight's reputation skyrocketed.A round of applause erupted as Willow took the stage with a glass of champagne in hand to deliver the closing speech. "Thank you all for your unwavering support. In the future, Insight will continue to bring in valuable collections. Thank you all."The beautiful female host led the audience in applause.Willow set down her glass and took a deep bow on stage.Just as she was basking in the moment, a commotion arose from the crowd.A woman's voice rang out, "Willow only climbed to the top by sleeping her way there! Without Julian Ziegler, she'd still be a nobody.""The role of Mrs. Ziegler should have belonged to my poor daughter!"Amid the murmurs, Charlie, Nancy, Tyler, and Karen stepped onto the stage.Since both families' children were
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 123
Charlie was dumbfounded after being slapped.It took him a long moment to process the fact that Willow was her daughter.Willow was the child he had with Heather.Charlie stood frozen for a moment, his eyes brimming with tears as he gazed at Willow. The more he looked, the more he saw the striking resemblance to the woman he once loved.His voice trembled as he said, "You're my little girl. You're my daughter!"Nancy was about to erupt in fury.Heather let out a cold laugh. "What right do you have to claim her as your daughter? Have you already forgotten what you'd just said about her?"You and your wife have humiliated my daughter time and time again. I'll make sure you pay for it. Also, let me make it clear that my daughter only has one father, and that's Timothy Chapman! It will only ever be him."Charlie's face turned deathly pale.What had he just said?He had only echoed what Nancy said, but at that time, he didn't know that Willow was his daughter, his little girl.No
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 124
Julian stood quietly, watching as Willow's chaotic life was finally set right. He began to wonder. If she had never gone missing as a child, she would have never become his wife.She would've grown up receiving the best education, living a life of privilege. Perhaps, in this lifetime, their paths would've never crossed.He would have stayed in Brindley, while she stayed in Yarrowmere. They might have stayed strangers who had just heard each other's names in passing.He didn't disturb her. Instead, he turned and left silently, settling into the back seat of his car.The night was dark.Julian, ever so composed and dignified, sat in the back seat and instructed Esther, "Contact the PR department. I want a post issued."Esther nodded.Then, Julian sent the proposal to Esther.When Esther read it, she was stunned. That was a rather unexpected move from Julian.Ten minutes later, Nebula Group published an official post, with a simple caption, "My true love".Attached to the post w
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 125
It was the middle of the night, but the Chapman residence in Yarrowmere was brightly lit.Laura personally came to the entrance to greet them.Despite her age, Laura was pragmatic. She had always respected her son's choices in love, but the fact that he had no children to carry on his legacy had always been a lingering regret in her heart.Now, as she looked at Willow, she couldn't help but notice how perfect Willow was. She was pretty and intelligent, the full package.Laura was utterly satisfied. She muttered, "Finally, Timothy has someone to inherit his name. This child has been raised well. The lady who raised her in Brindley must have done an excellent job."She's got the makings of someone who will accomplish great things."Laura turned to Heather with playful reproach. "She has done us such a huge favor. Why didn't you bring her over to share our joy?"Heather quickly explained, "Mom, Willow's grandmother just had a major surgery and is still recovering. When she's feelin
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 126
Timothy held Heather's hand and placed it over his heart, his eyes filled with deep affection."Feel it."After so many years of marriage, they shared a deep bond.Besides, he could feel his heart beating strongly, showing that he was still in his prime.Heather melted into his arms, her hair disheveled as she let him carry her onto the soft bed.With their long-held wish fulfilled, their lovemaking that night was even more passionate than before.The entire city of Yarrowmere celebrated the Chapman family reuniting with their daughter.The next day, Dominic timed his arrival perfectly and arrived at the Chapman residence at 3:00 pm.A convoy of black, luxury sedans rolled in one after another through the entrance, creating a grand spectacle.When the housekeeper went to announce their arrival, Laura was introducing Willow to her family and friends.She chuckled and said, "Didn't Willow and that Ziegler guy already get divorced? It's all in black and white. Is he trying to go
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Leaving You Bereft Chapter 261
Rosabelle was stunned. She'd never thought of this question before. Ever since she'd married Jeffrey, loving him was like an instinct. Her life revolved around him, but she had never thought about whether she still loved him!For a whole week, Rosabelle couldn't stop thinking about whether she should resign and go abroad with them.On Friday afternoon, at 2:00 pm, Rosabelle wore an elegant white dress to a business luncheon at a hotel. She was standing beside her boss, Harvey Jones, socializing with clients.She stole a glance at her phone, noticing a message from Jeffrey. "Rowie and I are waiting for you at the airport."Rosabelle was momentarily lost in thought. Harvey noticed and asked with a smile, "Something urgent?"Rosabelle shook her head.Harvey nodded and said, "The project is almost finalized. Next week, at our morning meeting, I'll be recommending you as the deputy project director. Keep it up, Rosabelle. You have a bright future ahead of you."She clinked her glass
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 260
Esther was shocked. How was that a little gesture?In the evening, at Serenity Manor, Jeffrey was taking care of Rowena when he received a call from his assistant, informing him that a company had purchased that 30% stake without even negotiating the price.The assistant sounded amazed. "That company must be seriously wealthy. They didn't even blink, spending over four billion dollars."Jeffrey held his phone, already guessing who was behind it. Besides Julian, there weren't many people in Brindley with that kind of wealth. He could also guess why Julian had bought it. It was nothing more than settling an old debt.The assistant continued, saying that the check would be delivered the next day. Jeffrey simply nodded.After hanging up the call, Rosabelle returned home. She was wearing a white suit, clearly exhausted from the day. She took off her heels the moment she stepped into the entryway and asked, "Are you on the phone? How's Rowie today?"Jeffrey set his phone down and sat b
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 259
With her in his arms, how could Julian possibly remain unmoved? But he couldn't give in.He gently comforted the woman in his embrace, telling her that Landon still had time. He reminded her that she had just undergone IVF, so her body wasn't in the right condition for sex…Slowly, Willow calmed down.The orange sunset reflected on the window like flames. The bedroom was bathed in a warm glow, casting a golden glaze over the man and woman.Willow didn't push him away, and her delicate arms remained looped around his neck. In truth, she was scared.As parents, how could she not feel afraid? After years as husband and wife, Julian naturally understood her. It was obvious that Willow had been crying.He held her close and gently rubbed his palm against her back. He comforted her gently, "With me here, Landon will be fine."Willow looked up at him. At that moment, she was utterly gentle, which was something he hadn't seen in all their years of marriage. She was acting like a young l
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 258
Jeffrey frowned. "Can't you take a day off to spend with your child?"Rosabelle replied faintly, "I have an important business dinner today. If I land this deal…"Jeffrey stared at his wife quietly, as if he no longer recognized her. After a long silence, he murmured, "Rowie needs her mother."Rosabelle naturally retorted, "She needs her father, too. Why don't you quit your job and be a full-time dad? Why should I sacrifice my career?"Jeffrey said nothing more, and the couple parted on a sour note. He held Rowena in his arms, watching Rosabelle get into the car and leave. Watching her capable and composed demeanor, he knew she had always believed that he didn't love her. But how could he not love her?He was just waiting for her to grow up! Wasn't his tolerance and patience a form of love?After a long moment, Jeffrey nuzzled Rowena. "Daddy will stay with you."Rowena had been diagnosed with mild autism and needed adult supervision at all times. But Rosabelle wasn't willing t
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 257
"Let go…"Julian ignored her plea. His eyes were filled with affection as he cupped her face with one hand, as if wanting to devour her whole. He even grabbed her arm, looping it around her neck.He wanted her to watch how he kissed her.Everything turned chaotic in an instant. All the repressed love and hate erupted at once, turning into physical entanglement.Outside, a drizzle fell softly.In the end, they didn't cross the final line. Willow leaned against his shoulder, her voice soft and desperate. "Julian, I still hate you."Julian's shirt hung loose. He held her slender body in his arms, his voice husky and emotional. "I know. Willow, I know."As soon as he said that, tears slid down her cheeks. She didn't want him to see her at her most vulnerable state.Later that night, Julian returned to the master bedroom. He dumped the suitcase into the walk-in closet and headed to the bathroom. As the hot water washed over him, he glanced at his right arm, recalling the feeling of
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 256
Willow said that she'd gotten pregnant because she wanted a baby.Just like Landon, that single sentence gave Julian a sense of redemption. His heart melted completely at that moment, and his eyes brimmed with affection.It had been a long time since he felt this way. Perhaps it was because he felt a sense of home, which reignited a flicker of hope inside of him.Inside, Willow finally coaxed the kids to sleep. She quietly got out of bed and walked back to her room. When she turned around, she froze in her tracks.Since when did Julian come back?He put down the suitcase, removed the trench coat with one hand, and casually placed it on top of the suitcase. Then, he stepped inside the bedroom."Everything's settled. I missed the kids, so I rushed back overnight. I'll go check on them."Willow nodded, then settled onto the couch and picked up a parenting book to read. After a while, her calf felt numb and would even cramp occasionally. Her brows furrowed in pain.After checking o
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 255
The kitchen was quiet, with only Julian standing by the counter, preparing the ingredients. He was wearing a black shirt and black trousers, showing off his broad shoulders that made him look poised and distinguished.His silhouette was striking, the kind that women would go crazy for. This scene was something Willow once longed for, but now, it only brought a sense of nostalgia and sorrow.She stood by the door, silently watching him prepare the food. It looked like he was preparing some salad, spaghetti, and roasted pork chops.Even with one hand, Julian's movements were precise. It was clear he'd cook for Landon often. His expression was calm and focused, completely different from the Julian of years past.Right now, Julian no longer cared for fame and fortune. Instead, he looked like a perfect househusband.Willow didn't disturb him and left quietly, but Julian still sensed her presence. He glanced up and said gently, "Just wait a little longer. Dinner will be ready soon."Wi
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 254
Dexter froze on the spot.Eleanor Sutton? That name felt like a relic from a distant past.He hadn't seen her since getting out of prison, nor had he asked about where she was. Perhaps, he had never truly loved her.Julian's expression disappeared as he watched his cousin in silence."The position of vice CEO in Yarrowmere was something I promised her. As for you, if you don't want to stay in Yarrowmere, I can arrange for someone else to take over."You can return to Brindley and live your previous life of debauchery. But I'm telling you, Eleanor gave birth to your daughter. You should at least bring her to Grandpa's grave."As soon as Julian said that, Dexter glared at him. He knew his cousin better than anyone. Ever since his release from prison, Julian hadn't said a thing.Now, he had suddenly decided to do this? Either Julian thought Dexter was in the way, or he'd noticed something.Grinding his pearly white teeth, Dexter growled, "Julian, you're as shameless as ever!"Ju
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 253
By the time Willow woke up, she wasn't in Radiance Manor, but in the executive lounge in Nebula Group's CEO's office.This was her first time here. Even back when she was married to Julian, she had never been here.The 600-square-foot space was clean and sleek, dominated by shades of black and grey. This was Julian's usual style.Willow sat up and noticed her clothes were gone, replaced by a black dress shirt and men's athletic shorts, probably something Julian had left here years ago.The waistband was a little loose, but with the drawstring tied, she could wear them.Willow didn't bother wondering who changed her clothes. In any case, she felt much more comfortable now, so she didn't care.After getting out of bed, she walked toward the floor-to-ceiling window and picked up a photo frame from the shelf beside it.It was a photo of her and Julian that was taken nearly four years ago. She was pregnant with Landon and Gabriella, and they were sitting on a bench beneath the Ferris
