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Chapter 259
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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 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 1
After four years of marriage, before the seven-year itch could even kick in, Julian Ziegler already had a mistress.At the gate of an upscale villa in Brindlewood, Willow Harper sat quietly in the backseat of an expensive car, watching her husband sneak around with another woman.The woman was young. Dressed in a white dress, she looked innocent and enchanting.They held hands like lovers, and Julian wore a tenderness Willow had never seen.The woman tilted her head up and playfully pouted at Julian. "My feet hurt. Carry me, Julian!"Willow thought Julian would refuse. After all, he was known for being a cold, unapproachable man with a short temper. No matter how much he indulged his lover, he'd never tolerate that kind of fuss.But the next moment, Willow was slapped in the face.Julian gently rubbed the woman's delicate nose, looking both aloof and tender. Then, he picked her up effortlessly, cradling her in his arms as though she were the rarest of treasures.The woman's sof
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 2
Willow clenched the bedsheet. Her fingertips left behind a mess of wrinkles.Even at a time like this, she found herself wondering if Catherine didn't satisfy Julian. Otherwise, why would he bother wasting time kissing her tonight instead of going straight to the point?Willow felt nothing other than disgust.So, she simply lay there like a plank, letting him do whatever he wanted. No matter how hard he tried, he wasn't getting a child out of her anyway.At first, Julian was aroused by the seductive Willow in her loosened bathrobe. But now, she just lay there like a lifeless plank on the sheets.Even the most eager man would find it uninspiring.What a mood killer.Sweat clung to the tips of Julian's hair. With a flushed face, he asked in a husky voice, "What's wrong? Not in the mood anymore?"They didn't sleep together often, but it still happened a few times a month. Those were his attempts to plant an heir in her womb.Willow lay on the white pillow, staring up at the man s
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 3
Julian gave Jeffrey a slight nod.Jeffrey smiled faintly and left, giving the couple, who were on different wavelengths, some space.After Jeffrey left, Julian glanced at Willow and frowned. "Why are you dressed like that? Go change. We're having dinner at the Ziegler residence later."Willow understood perfectly. When Julian mentioned "dinner", it was code for showing off their fake affection for Dominic's stake in the company.At times, Willow couldn't help but feel that Julian was a contradiction. He presented himself as polished and serene, but beneath the surface, he was more driven by ambition and wealth than anyone. He was perfectly suited for the world of power and status.Willow was willing to go along with it. Before they separated their assets, she would prioritize their interests.She returned to her office to change into a suit and met Julian in the private elevator.The elevator was empty except for the two of them.Julian glanced at his watch and said casually, "
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 4
It was 9:00 pm when they left the Ziegler residence.As Julian fastened his seatbelt, he asked casually, "What were you and Dexter talking about? You two seemed to be having a good time."Willow replied softly, "Oh, just chatting about your childhood sweetheart."Julian was rendered speechless.After a brief silence, he reached over and lightly clasped Willow's hand. His voice carried a rare hint of gentleness as he said, "I never slept with her."Willow leaned back against the seat, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.She knew very well that Julian's tenderness was only because she was in her fertile window. He just wanted to plant his seed in her womb.It had nothing to do with love and even less to do with her.She wondered if Julian would still try to hold on to this marriage if he found out she couldn't have children anymore. Or would he rush to sign the divorce papers and start searching for the next woman fit to be his wife?He was putting in the effort tonight. He l
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 5
Willow knew that once she spoke the truth, there would be no turning back between her and Julian.But when disappointment had built up to its breaking point, one would throw caution to the wind and let go of everything.Looking up at the man she had once loved so deeply, she was ready to peel open her wounds and expose them completely before him.When she spoke, her heart ached so much it felt numb. "Don't bother making any decisions, Julian. I don't want my position in Nebula Group or even the title anymore. Because I can't—"She never got to finish because Julian's phone rang.His eyes stayed locked on her face as he answered. On the other end, Esther's urgent voice came through. "Mr. Ziegler, Ms. Burke is in critical condition. You need to come now.""Okay."Julian hung up and turned to Willow. "We'll talk later." Without another word, he strode to his black Rolls-Royce, ready to leave.Willow stood frozen in place. A gust of night wind swept past, chilling her to the bone
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 6
The autumn night was crisp outside, but inside the car, it was warm and quiet.Willow caught the scent of fresh tobacco. Jeffrey smoked the same brand as Julian. For a moment, in her hazy state, she got confused. She thought Julian was the one sitting beside her.Her eyes fluttered shut as she reached out, grasping his hand. "Julian."Half-asleep, she felt like she had slipped back in time. Back to when she and Julian were still a young couple.Jeffrey didn't pull his hand away. He didn't say a word either. He simply turned and looked out at the road ahead. The night was as deep and dense, eerily similar to the way he felt at that moment.Jeffrey had been with women before.But those had always been casual arrangements—no strings attached. He had never experienced emotions as intense as Willow's. For the first time, he wondered what it would be like to be loved by someone like her.In the distance, fireworks bloomed against the sky, their brilliance cutting through the night.W
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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
