《Hold On Mr.! Your Sweetheart is a Real Queen》


 Chapter 1: If You Want to Live, Marry Me

    <h4>Chapter 1: Chapter 1: If You Want to Live, Marry Me</h4>


    In the Ginger Residence¡¯s hall, a group sat stiffly upright.


    "I can save him, but he must break off the engagement with Emily Ginger."


    When Daisy Ginger¡¯s vivid fingers pointed at her, Emily Ginger¡¯s face immediately turned green.


    "Daisy," Emily was almost crazy with rage, "What nonsense are you spouting?!"


    "I haven¡¯t finished speaking." Daisy gave her a sidelong nce andnguidly uttered a few more words, "Break off the engagement with Emily, and then marry me!"


    Thest two words were spoken with such decisiveness that the entire hall fell silent.


    The servants in the hall exchanged nces towards the woman sitting in the middle of the living room, unable to hide a hint of disdain¡ª


    With her future brother-inw gravely ill, Daisy Ginger, Emily¡¯s half-sister, proposed such a brazen demand.


    This is just taking advantage of the situation.


    "If Edward Stephens is willing to go to the civil affairs bureau with me, I can apany him to the hospital right now." After speaking, Daisy leisurely crossed her legs, leaned back in the armchair with her arms folded, not sparing a nce at the furious Emily.


    This was an utterly... shameless deration. The servants present were also stunned.


    Emily knew that the Stephens family would agree to any demands to save their only heir, panicked, and couldn¡¯t help but look to her mother for help: "Mom, look at Daisy, what nonsense is she saying!"


    Abigail Perry was also a bit unsure, patted her daughter¡¯s hand tofort her, urgently looked towards Lady Stephens, and quietly asked, "My dear inw..."


    Lady Stephens satposedly in the guest seat, her perfect face showing no hint of emotion, and when she met Abigail Perry¡¯s gaze, she just smiled, turning her head to look at her son leaning against the doorframe: "Edward, what do you think?"


    Although she was giving her son the choice, not rejecting it outright showed her attitude.


    Edward gave a slight sneer, raised his eyes to meet Daisy¡¯s gaze from her chair. After a moment, he looked away, let out a low chuckle, his eyes devoid of any humor, and spat out three words: "In your dreams."


    Seeing her beloved¡¯s stance, Emily felt a wave of relief, then ran over miserably, holding Edward¡¯s arm, softly calling, "Edward..."


    Edward let out a faint "hmm" then shot a cold nce at Daisy sitting not far away. He said to his mother, "I¡¯d rather die than marry her."


    These words expressed his disgust towards Daisy with tant rity, not sparing her any dignity.


    After speaking, he no longer looked at anyone¡¯s face in the room and turned around, pulling Emily away with him.


    Daisy watched Edward¡¯s departing back with a nk expression, and after they left, she cursed internally: Stupid dog bastard!


    ......


    "Ah, my child," Lady Stephens couldn¡¯t help pping her hands and sighing, turning her head, yet speaking to Daisy, "Edward has been spoiled by me since childhood, Daisy, don¡¯t mind him."


    Daisy put on a "not a bit bothered" expression, smiling at Lady Stephens, "No problem, I¡¯m used to it."


    Looking at Daisy, Lady Stephens¡¯ smile became even more tender and charming, even her tone was sweet, speaking with a family-like familiarity: "Ah, indeed, our dear Daisy is the best¡«"


    Sitting on the sofa, Abigail Perry listened to their conversation, her face gradually turning dark green¡ªLady Stephens, is it really okay for you to be so changeable at the drop of a hat? Did you not consider her as an inw?


    *


    After seeing off Lady Stephens, the "gentle and virtuous" expression on Daisy¡¯s face vanished instantly. The servants, ustomed to her faces changing as quickly as flipping a book, showed no reaction, but Abigail Perry grew furious at her high-handed demeanor, unable to resist pointing at her and scolding, "Snatching your sister¡¯s man, Daisy, you have the nerve!"


    Daisy was drinking tea, and seeing Abigail Perry looking over, she coldlyughed, smashing the teacup at her feet, scaring Abigail into crying out in rm.


    "You weren¡¯t embarrassed when you snatched my mom¡¯s man back in the day," she sneered, "being the other woman, you should be quiet and not disgrace yourself here!"


    She, disgrace herself?


    Abigail looked incredulously at Daisy¡¯s departing figure, so angry that her whole body trembled¡ªwho was really disgracing themselves?!


    "Daisy, dare you steal your sister¡¯s man, next time I won¡¯t let you off!"


    Daisy turned to nce at her, not saying a word, but that look was brimming with mockery, so clear even a fool could understand her meaning.


    "Out of control, out of control......"


    Abigail was so angry she was about to spit blood, while Daisy left the house without looking back.

 Chapter 2: "Take more medicine to fix your brain!

    <h4>Chapter 2: Chapter 2: "Take more medicine to fix your brain!</h4>


    It was night.


    Royal estate.


    "Miss Ginger, Miss Ginger, Mr. Stephens is really not here!"


    "Miss Ginger! Please don¡¯t go, Miss Ginger!"


    "Ouch, Miss Ginger!"


    A group of people crowded around a young woman in the hotel corridor, trying to stop her from advancing.


    Daisy Ginger showed no expression, ignoring her surroundings as she strode forward.


    ¡ªNot even a dozen security guards could stop her aggressive intrusion.


    "Bang!"


    The private room door was kicked open, and the bright lights inside shone on the woman at the entrance. The club manager on duty looked worried at the door, his face wrinkled like a pickled cucumber.


    Working for over ten years, his career was in jeopardy; he might get fired tonight.


    At the entrance, only the music was quietly flowing.


    Inside the room, everyone fell silent.


    The womenpanions singing along in front of the TV wall looked at the pretty woman standing at the door in knee-high boots with surprise and suspicion in their eyes.


    Who is she?


    She...


    How dare she?!!


    Daisy Ginger strode right in with her long, slender legs, making her way to the center sofa, arms crossed, nodding her chin towards the woman sitting next to Edward Stephens:


    "Move."


    That attitude, so arrogant it was almost insufferable.


    Edward leaned against the sofa, still in the same posture, watching the woman who approached, his expression unchanging.


    He wanted to see what more she could do.


    The woman beside Edward instinctively nced at him. Seeing his expression unchanged since this woman¡¯s entrance gave her some reassurance. She smiled coquettishly, clinging to Edward¡¯s arm, and provocatively looked at Daisy Ginger: "Who are you to tell me to leave upon arrival? Is the Royal yours... ah!"


    A ss of cold water sshed on the woman¡¯s face, causing her to scream in fright. Seeing Daisy Ginger in front of her exuding hostility with narrowed eyes, she didn¡¯t dare say another word and stood aside.


    Daisy Ginger walked over, sat next to Edward, crossed her legs, lit a cigarette, and threw a medicine box onto the coffee table before them: "Your medicine."


    His gaze fell on the familiar medicine box he often took; a cold glint flickered in his dark eyes as he asked, "Did you go to my home?"


    Seemingly aware of the displeasure in his tone, Daisy arched her slender brow, turned her head, and blew smoke towards him. Propping her face with one hand, she smiled provocatively: "Listen to yourself. You¡¯re going to marry me, what difference does it make between your home and mine?"


    In the swirling smoke, Edward narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing the face of the woman in front of him.


    Speaking honestly, Daisy Ginger was not unattractive; in fact, she was extremely beautiful.


    Beautiful to the point of being almost bewitching.


    Whether it was the natural seductive curve at her eyes or her slightly smiling ruby lips, if it weren¡¯t for the rtionship he had with Daisy Ginger, he might even settle down to appreciate her beauty.


    Unfortunately¡ª


    He reached out, grabbed her chin, and leaned closer to her face¡ª"Daisy Ginger, can you stop being so disgusting all the time?"


    "Have some self-respect, will you?" His voice was cold, yet every word pierced her heart. "Seeing you makes me want to vomit. Can you stop appearing in front of me?"


    "I will never like you, nor will I marry you. To be honest, even if every woman in the world died, I wouldn¡¯t look at you."


    ...


    Every word, filled with utter disdain and undisguised disgust.


    The room was silent; no one spoke.


    Saying this to a girl was somewhat hurtful.


    "..." Daisy Ginger slowly withdrew her smile, expressionlessly looking at this handsome, aristocratic face before her, seeing the harshness and chill in his eyes.


    She found it interesting.


    "Daisy Ginger, can you stop being so disgusting all the time?"


    [Jiu Jiu, I like you.]


    "Have some self-respect, will you? Seeing you makes me want to vomit. Can you stop appearing in front of me?"


    [Jiu Jiu, I wille back.]


    "I will never like you, nor will I marry you. To be honest, even if every woman in the world died, I wouldn¡¯t look at you."


    [Jiu Jiu, remember to wait for me. I won¡¯t leave you alone.]


    ...


    She abruptly stood up from the sofa, grabbed the medicine from the coffee table, poured it all into her palm, and shoved it into Edward¡¯s mouth in front of everyone¡ª


    "Take more medicine to cure your brain!"

 Chapter 3: Daisy Ginger, you are not qualified to make me serve you

    <h4>Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Daisy Ginger, you are not qualified to make me serve you</h4>


    Everyone in the private room gasped.


    The young master of the Stephens family and Miss Ginger were fighting, naturally no one dared to step forward to intervene.


    Daisy Ginger was ruthless, using quite a bit of strength, but a woman¡¯s strength was ultimately no match for a man¡¯s. Edward Stephens didn¡¯t expect Daisy to do such a thing and was stunned for a few seconds before reaching out with some disgust to fling Daisy aside.


    Daisy stumbled back several steps before barely managing to stand firm, tightly pressing her lips together as she looked at the familiar face in front of her.


    Pills scattered all over the ground.


    The man sat on the sofa, frowning deeply, wiping his lips vigorously as if the area she touched was contaminated with some gue.


    He used to blush at just holding her hand, so what¡¯s with the act now?


    Edward lifted his head to look at the woman standing not far away. Her hair was a bit messy, and in the light, her disheveled strands covered her brows and eyes. She stood there, looking up at him expressionlessly.


    Perhaps it was the light being too bright, but there seemed to be a faint glisten in her eyes.


    Feeling wronged?


    The next second, he saw Daisy brush away the stray hair in front of her face, revealing that stunningly captivating face, and without any emotion, she cursed at him.


    "Idiot."


    Edward: "..."


    He let out a light snort, feeling sorry for such a shameless woman like Daisy. He really must have had his brain bitten by a donkey.


    The mood for drinking waspletely spoiled by Daisy. Edward slowly stood up from the sofa, intending to leave.


    Sitting on the sofa, it wasn¡¯t obvious, but once he stood up, Daisy realized he was much taller than she had imagined.


    That¡¯s right, eight years had passed, and the frail youth had grown into a tall man.


    She raised her eyes, looking at the man¡¯s increasingly dazzling and captivating face, the once little boy who only knew how to follow behind her, weakly calling her "Jiu Jiu," was now handsome enough to make every woman in the world swoon.


    He had grown so outstanding that even Emily Ginger, who once looked down on him, was now clinging onto him unwilling to let go.


    Edward Stephens, you told me to wait for you, and I waited.


    But where are you?


    ...


    A group of people gradually walked toward the outside of the private room.


    Daisy stood still.


    Edward reached the doorway and pulled out a cigarette from his pocket.


    He lit the cigarette, his steps slowed, and with his back to her, he said.


    "Daisy, don¡¯t go crazy on me. You don¡¯t have the right for me to serve you."


    After saying thest sentence, Edward left the private room. After walking a few steps, an unopened bottle of champagne was thrown out from inside, hitting the carpet he had just walked over.


    "Bang!"


    The liquid sshed everywhere.


    Everyone froze for a moment, and one bold person couldn¡¯t help but rub their chin, making a pointed remark, "This Miss Ginger... is really fiery."


    Edward held a cigarette in his mouth, ncing at him askew. The other person couldn¡¯t quite figure out his intention and was just about to say a few ttering words when Edward let out a light snort and left without looking back.


    *


    In the private room, Daisy closed her eyes and took a deep breath.


    Everything around her went quiet, whether it was the waitstaff or security, no one dared toe in and disturb her.


    Miss Ginger of Banyan City was famously beautiful and also famously... bad-tempered.


    Even if she smashed up the entire private room, no one would dare say a word, let alone just smashing a bottle of wine.


    ...


    Daisy trembled, exhaling the breath she had just inhaled, then as if choked, she coughed lightly a couple of times, crouched down by the armrest of the sofa, and started picking up the pills from the floor one by one, cing them back into the pill bottle.


    Under the light, her face was somewhat pale, and all the fierce gestures had vanished without a trace, leaving only a bit of shallow grievance that she had suffered from Edward.


    She sat on the sofa, lit a cigarette, but didn¡¯t smoke it, just sat there in a daze for a moment, then as if she had thought of something, took out her phone and made a call to Lady Stephens.


    Lady Stephens¡¯ voice was as gentle and sweet as ever, "Jiu Jiu, what¡¯s the matter?"


    "Auntie." Daisy¡¯s voice was a bit hoarse, she lightly coughed a few times, and in a voice devoid of emotion, she said to Lady Stephens, "Edward didn¡¯t take his medicine tonight. When he gets back, remind him to take it."


    "Oh, oh..." Lady Stephens responded softly, "Got it. Jiu Jiu, what¡¯s wrong with your voice?" She cautiously asked, "Did you have a fight with Edward again?"


    "No." Daisy chuckled lightly, tossing the cigarette butt into the trash, "Just smoked too much."


    Lady Stephens couldn¡¯t help but say, "Jiu Jiu, it¡¯s better for girls not to smoke, you need to take care of yourself."


    Daisy chuckled lightly again, "Got it. Auntie, I¡¯m heading back."


    Eight years, if not for cigarettes, how would she have gotten through these nearly three thousand long days and nights?


    Two thousand and twenty days, the persistent boy who held onto her hand telling her to wait for him finally returned.


    She thought she could finally quit smoking, but unexpectedly, his return only made her sink deeper into addiction.


    *

 Chapter 4: Genetic Diseases in Families

    <h4>Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Gic Diseases in Families</h4>


    Daisy thought that she wasn¡¯t good in many ways, but she had one redeeming quality¡ªpatience.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have waited eight years just because of a single remark from Edward Stephens.


    After an unpleasant encounter with Edward at the Royal Mansion, Daisy didn¡¯t go to the Stephens family to look for him. Regardless, his fate rests in her hands, and he wille to her sooner orter.


    A monthter, she had just left the office when she received a call from the Stephens family butler.


    "Miss Ginger, pleasee quickly, the young master is in trouble!"


    The urgent male voice over the phone was unexpected, and Daisy¡¯s expression darkened slightly. The driver in front saw her expression from the rearview mirror and nervously asked, "Director Ginger, where are we heading now?"


    "To the Stephens family." Daisy hung up the phone, pondering the butler¡¯s worried tone, thinking that Edward¡¯s current state might be dire.


    ...


    As soon as Daisy arrived at the Stephens family, she heard the sound of argumentsing from the hall.


    Lady Stephens¡¯s voice was quite sharp and could be heard clearly.


    "Edward, are you trying to upset your mother? These years, because of your illness, I¡¯ve been on edge, unable to eat or sleep well for years! Now when there¡¯s finally a chance for you to recover, you don¡¯t even cherish it at all!"


    In Daisy¡¯s impression, Lady Stephens always spoke gently, like those women born into affluent families, with a tone filled with the privilege of being carefree.


    Today, with such urgency and breakdown in her voice, in all her years of knowing Lady Stephens, Daisy had never heard her speak like this.


    No wonder the usually calm Stephens family butler was startled enough to call her in haste.


    Edward¡¯s voice hadn¡¯t been heard; perhaps it was too low, or maybe he was too reluctant to speak. Daisy stepped quietly into the hall, where she saw a lively circle of people gathered around. A family doctor in a white coat was half-kneeling in front of the sofa, looking tense, with ayer of cold sweat on his forehead.


    The air was faintly filled with the scent of blood, even quite overwhelming.


    Edward leaned on the sofa with his eyes closed, his handsome face carrying ayer of pallor due to excessive blood loss.


    Daisy¡¯s gaze lingered on the man¡¯s bloodless lips for a second, then she retracted it and called softly towards the hall, "Auntie."


    Lady Stephens was turning her head, quietly sobbing. Hearing Daisy¡¯s voice, she turned around surprisingly, quickly wiped her tears, and came over, "Daisy, why did youe over?"


    "I haven¡¯t visited Auntie for a month, so I came by." Daisy smiled, nced at Edward, and said, "What¡¯s wrong with Edward?"


    Lady Stephens¡¯s eyes were red. She maintained herself well and lived without worries, so even near fifty, she carried a hint of youthful innocence. Hearing Daisy¡¯s inquiry, her nose twitched, almost crying again.


    "A fruit knife identally cut his hand, and the bleeding won¡¯t stop," Lady Stephens wiped her tears and said to Daisy, "The doctor can¡¯t do anything, saying we can only stop the bleeding for now, and if it doesn¡¯t stop, we¡¯ll go to the hospital."


    Daisy softly uttered an "oh," nodded to indicate she understood.


    Edward¡¯s illness was something she only heard about from Lady Stephens after he returned.


    It¡¯s a hereditary illness in the Stephens family, passed down only to the men, not the women.

 Chapter 5: Fainting After Crying

    <h4>Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Fainting After Crying</h4>


    People with this gic disease have fewer telets than normal, and as they grow older, they develop severe coagtion disorders. A small wound that would be insignificant for a regr person could result in death from excessive bleeding for these patients.


    In other words, Edward Stephens was born with familial leukemia. This hereditary disease led doctors to conclude at birth that he wouldn¡¯t live past thirty. Even if kept in a greenhouse-like environment, he might still die from internal bleeding or otherplications.


    Over the years, the Stephens family has spent countless resources trying to find a bone marrow match for Edward Stephens. However, since it¡¯s a gic familial disease, it¡¯s not something modern technology can easily resolve. Through these years, there have been very few cases where the bone marrow match¡¯s sess rate exceeded twenty percent.


    But Edward Stephens was fortunate; he met her, Daisy Ginger.


    Not only could her blood save him, but it could also cure his terminal illness.


    Theirpatibility rate was over ny-nine percent.


    In this world, only Daisy Ginger could save Edward Stephens, whether he wanted it or not.


    Daisy Ginger slowly walked over, stood in front of the sofa, and looked at the increasingly pale face of the man.


    The doctor wrapped his hand with gauze, pressing hard on his palm, but blood still kept oozing from the edge of the gauze, dripping onto the floor audibly.


    If this continues, there¡¯s a day he might really die.


    Daisy Ginger squatted by his leg and raised her eyes to gaze at his face.


    Then let him die.


    She thought, coldly and without emotion.


    Better for Edward Stephens to die than to marry someone else.


    Perhaps her gaze was too piercing; the man who had his eyes closed and was silent slowly opened them.


    Those eyes, much deeper and darker than most, met hers.


    He looked at her expressionlessly, as if he were looking at thin air.


    Even at this point, he wasn¡¯t willing to be kind to her, not even slightly yielding to her.


    Daisy Ginger couldn¡¯t help butugh softly, propping her face with her hand while squatting there, her smile bright and radiant: "Edward Stephens, Emily Ginger saved you once, and you vowed to dedicate yourself to her. If I saved your life, would you then be my servant?"


    He looked at her face, which had a cheerfully gloating smile, his dignified features showing no emotion, only giving her a cold and merciless single word: "Get lost."


    His annoyance at her attitude had reached the point where he didn¡¯t want to say another word to her.


    This bastard, he might as well be dead.


    After all, without Edward Stephens, Daisy Ginger could still dominate Banyan City, wait for eight years for him as if feeding a dog.


    With her beauty and family background, she could have any man; there was no need to coerce a man with a broken mind.


    The harsher her thoughts, the more captivating her smile became.


    She smiled and said, "Master Stephens, it seems your illness isn¡¯t just physical, but mental too. If I left just like that, your mother would probably cry herself unconscious. Being a child and letting your parents send you off with gray hair, that¡¯s what¡¯s truly shameless."


    Edward Stephens understood that she was here to pay him back for the incident at the Regal Clubhouse a month ago. After all, this woman was vindictive, and he had experienced her sharp tongue before.


    With the blood loss making him irritable, he was unwilling to deal further with Daisy Ginger, yet his mother still had to step in.


    Lady Stephens whimpered aggrievedly, "Edward, Daisy is right. If you don¡¯t behave, I will cry myself unconscious, just wait and see."

 Chapter 6 He Accidentally Married Someone Else

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chapter 6 He identally Married Someone Else</h4>


    Edward: "..."


    He suspected his mother had lost her mind.


    Never seen anyone push their own son into a pit like this.


    Leaving aside the fact he feels nothing for Daisy Ginger, with Daisy¡¯s arrogant and fiery behavior, what peace would the Stephens family have if he married her?


    Given her personality of avenging the slightest grievance, the first to suffer would likely be himself, her husband.


    He¡¯s marrying forpanionship, not for warfare.


    Moreover, he has no interest in a woman like Daisy Ginger.


    She¡¯s not his type at all.


    Edward pushed away the doctor who was treating him and stood up from the sofa, his demeanor cold and expressionless as he headed upstairs.


    He had decided he wouldn¡¯t bother with them anymore.


    "Edward, your hand is still bleeding, where are you going?" Lady Stephens, wiping away her tears, followed her son in panic.


    Daisy turned her head and looked at the man¡¯s back, biting her teeth slightly.


    Honestly, she felt unwilling.


    Waiting eight years for him, only to receive this oue, she thought she would let it go, that she would forget and start anew, but he had grown to dislike her.


    She believed she hadn¡¯t wronged him in any way; she even tried her best to be good to him. However, the closer she got, the more he resented her. She was never a person with good temper; when the two of them yed together in the past, it was always him who humored her.


    In the end, it led to this situation.


    Whenever they met, he was sarcastic, she was cold.


    The imbnce in their rtionship grew like a snowball, umting and getting bigger, until now, it seemed beyond repair.


    Daisy took a deep breath, just about to stand up from the ground, when suddenly there was a heavy thud from upstairs, followed by Lady Stephens¡¯ piercing scream: "Edward! Edward! What¡¯s wrong, Edward?!"


    "..." Daisy¡¯s breath instantly turned into a cold chill frozen in her chest, her temple throbbed suddenly, and before her rational mind could react, her body had already rushed upstairs.


    *


    Edward was taken to the emergency room.


    After Daisy finished all the paperwork for his admission and returned, Lady Stephens was still crying at the door of the operating room.


    She was a delicate and pampered woman, raised in luxury since childhood, and with her beloved son at death¡¯s door, she was crying as if the sky were falling; a nurse beside her holding documents looked at her helplessly, seemingly waiting for her signature.


    "Let me do it." Daisy walked over, took the pile of pre-surgery forms, and swiftly signed her name.


    "You are..." The young nurse paused slightly upon seeing her, unable to react.


    "His wife." Daisy smiled at her.


    ...


    Edward¡¯s surgerysted untilte at night, Daisy had a craving for a cigarette, but couldn¡¯t smoke in front of the operating room, so she went outside to have one and returned to find Lady Stephens running towards her like a restless rabbit, calling out: "Daisy."


    Daisy waved her sleeve to dispel the smoke smell, then walked over, smiled at Lady Stephens, and reassured her: "Auntie, it will be fine, it was just some blood loss; a blood transfusion will fix it."


    "..." Lady Stephens¡¯ face, younger and more delicate than those of her peers, showed a rare hint ofplexity at this moment. She looked at Daisy with reddened eyes, as if she had something to say.


    Daisy didn¡¯t give her the chance to speak.


    "Auntie, you were there when he left. He asked me to wait for him, and I can¡¯t let him identally marry someone else before he returns. He would me me."

 Chapter 7 She waited for him for eight years, he cannot die here tonight.

    <h4>Chapter 7: Chapter 7 She waited for him for eight years, he cannot die here tonight.</h4>


    Lady Stephens pressed her lips together suddenly, as if recalling something from the past, and didn¡¯t speak again.


    "I¡¯ve waited for him for so many years, and now that heaven has ced this opportunity before me, I must seize it." She looked at Lady Stephens and smiled slightly, "I can¡¯t just watch him be with another woman, can I?"


    "Y-yes..." Lady Stephens mumbled, seemingly at a loss for words as she nervously turned her head to look at the operating room, not daring to look at her again.


    Daisy Ginger knew she was being ruthless and also knew what Lady Stephens wanted to say.


    It was nothing more than asking her to save him.


    Edward Stephens was really on the brink of death; his condition was worsening. He looked fine on the outside, but nobody knew when he might stop breathing.


    The marriage between Emily Ginger and Edward Stephens was consented to by Lady Stephens back then. She seemed like the kind of doting mother who would approve of whoever her son liked.


    If Edward hadn¡¯t fallen ill and she hadn¡¯t just happened to be a bone marrow match, Lady Stephens probably wouldn¡¯t have persuaded Edward to marry her.


    After all, eight years had passed. Edward had forgotten her, and Lady Stephens didn¡¯t care who he was with anymore.


    The only one still stuck eight years in the past was Daisy Ginger.


    She curved her lips slightly, the smile carrying a hint of coldness.


    At half-past midnight, the door to the operating room suddenly opened. A young nurse rushed out and spoke a flurry of words before anyone could react: "The blood bank just called, the AB type blood supply has been exhausted. We contacted the hospital next door half an hour ago, but there was a car ident on that road, causing a major traffic jam. Is anyone here..."


    Daisy Ginger gracefully stood up from the bench, rolled up her sleeves, and calmly said, "I have the same blood type as him. I¡¯ll go."


    "You..." The young nurse hesitated for a moment, seeing her thin appearance, but still led her to the blood drawing room in a hurry.


    After measuring blood pressure, they drew blood.


    She had 50 of blood drawn in one go, and just as the nurse was about to remove the needle, Daisy Ginger held her hand. She smiled at her and said, "No rush. You need more than that, right? Draw a bit more."


    The young nurse, touched by her slightly pale face, looked at her with reddened eyes and said, "Miss Ginger, you and your husband have such a strong bond."


    "Indeed," Daisy Ginger replied indifferently.


    They continued until they reached 90. Finally, seeing herplexion worsen, the nurse forcibly removed the needle.


    Daisy Ginger sat in the chair and only spoke after the nurse had walked to the door: "You must save him."


    She had waited for him eight years; he couldn¡¯t die here tonight.


    *


    Edward Stephens had great luck; after Daisy Ginger¡¯s blood was sent over, the ambnce from the nearby hospital also brought sma.


    The surgery was sessful, a cause for celebration, but he still needed to stay hospitalized for half a month for observation.


    On the other hand, after donating blood, Daisy Ginger¡¯s resistance weakened, and she caught a serious cold, developing a fever that lingered for a week, nearly costing her life.


    By the time she recovered, Edward Stephens was almost ready to be discharged.


    On this day, Daisy Ginger brought flowers to the hospital to visit Edward Stephens. She just reached the door when she heard Emily Ginger inside the ward speaking ill of her.


    "Edward, you see, you¡¯ve been in the hospital for so long, but Daisy hasn¡¯t visited you even once."


    She had just finished speaking when the sound of a door opening came from behind. Turning her head, she saw Daisy Ginger standing with a bouquet, arms crossed and leaning against the door, smiling mockingly at her.


    Emily Ginger wasn¡¯t the least bit ashamed. She stood up from the bedside and pointed angrily at Daisy Ginger, "Daisy, you keep saying you like Edward. He¡¯s been sick for half a month, and you haven¡¯t visited him once. Your love is truly cheap!"


    Daisy Ginger, unwilling to engage with her, walked in, ced the flowers in the vase, and casually threw the original bouquet into the trash. Emily Ginger stormed over in a rage, "Daisy, I bought that bouquet! How could you throw it away?!"


    Daisy Ginger tilted her head and nced at her, then bent down and retrieved the flowers from the trash, tossing them into Emily Ginger¡¯s arms.


    Emily Ginger: "..."


    Edward Stephens, sitting there impatiently, interjected, "Both of you, calm down."


    Emily Ginger, being scolded by him, felt deeply wronged but dared not say more.


    Neither she nor Abigail Perry had anticipated Edward¡¯s illness. If she upset Edward and got dumped, all their efforts over the years would be for nothing.


    Daisy Ginger, arms crossed triumphantly, strutted around the ward like a patroller, throwing all the things Emily Ginger had brought into the trash.


    Chicken soup, fruits, supplements¡ªall thrown away in front of Emily Ginger¡¯s eyes.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s face turned greener and greener but, fearing an outburst would upset Edward, she endured it until she couldn¡¯t anymore, opened the door, and left in frustration.


    Daisy Ginger stood by the bed, smiling sweetly, speaking to the man on the bed with little expression or emotion: "I don¡¯t like it when other women give you things. Don¡¯t ept them in the future."


    Edward Stephens stared at her, genuinely amused, and threw out two biting words: "You¡¯re crazy."

 Chapter 8: "But Daisy Ginger, I don’t like owing you favors.

    <h4>Chapter 8: Chapter 8: "But Daisy Ginger, I don¡¯t like owing you favors.</h4>


    Daisy was not angry, in fact, she wore a gentle expression, her beautiful face smiling pleasantly.


    She said, "Right now, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s sick. My blood flows through your veins, so you¡¯re mine. What¡¯s wrong with asking my man not to ept things from other women?"


    Edward Stephens was so infuriated by Daisy¡¯s shameless words that heughed out loud.


    He asked Daisy, "So, ording to you, if I want to settle things with you, I have to return the blood?"


    Daisy looked at him, pressing her lips together, as his tone wasn¡¯t very happy.


    She came to the hospital to visit Edward Stephens, not to quarrel with him.


    The words she said earlier were just because she saw Emily Ginger in his ward feeding him chicken soup, and she was jealous and intentionally provoked him.


    Daisy: "I didn¡¯t mean that."


    Edward Stephens stared at her for a while.


    He had eyes much deeper than ordinary people. When he looked at someone, he seemed to be incredibly affectionate, and given his noble and handsome appearance, even if there was nothing on his mind, a girl could easily be moved.


    Daisy¡¯s heart fluttered slightly under his gaze, then she heard the man let out a low chuckle and softly say to her, "But Daisy, I don¡¯t like owing you favors."


    Her heart skipped a beat as she saw Edward Stephens pull out a thin fruit knife from who knows where, gazing at her with those beautiful eyes, then without hesitation, he sliced it across the back of his hand¡ª


    "No!"


    She screamed in fright, instinctively reaching out to grab the de, the palm of her hand getting cut. She squeezed tightly, not letting Edward Stephens hurt himself.


    Her heart pounded violently, nearly bursting her eardrums, she couldn¡¯t even feel the pain from the wound on her hand.


    Daisy¡¯s beautiful eyes widened slightly, looking at the man in front of her, his face calm to the point of cruelty.


    If he made another wound, he might not survive.


    Daisy looked at him nkly for a moment, unable to discern whether her wildly beating heart was due to fear or heartache, her hand gripping the de trembling slightly.


    "Why..." After a while, she couldn¡¯t help but ask in a low voice, "Edward Stephens, weren¡¯t you the one who told me to wait for you..."


    Why, when I waited, would you hurt me like this?


    Hurting her like this in front of her?


    Weren¡¯t you the one who cherished me the most before?


    Even for a small wound, you couldn¡¯t bear to let me bleed, and now my palm is covered in blood, why are you indifferent now?


    Why do this to me?


    Knowing full well she couldn¡¯t get an answer from the man, she still couldn¡¯t help but want to ask.


    Feeling unbearably wronged inside, yet not a tear could escape her eyes, she just stared nkly at the familiar face of the man.


    If he wasn¡¯t Edward Stephens, if he didn¡¯t have this face identical to Edward Stephens¡¯, it would be better, no one else could make her sad, no one else had the right to make her sad.


    Edward Stephens frowned slightly: "What nonsense are you spouting again?"


    Daisy pressed her lips together slightly and silently pulled the fruit knife from the man¡¯s palm, throwing it with the blood into the trash can.


    The wound continued to bleed, she expressionlessly stretched out her hand and smeared the blood all over the man¡¯s hospital gown, then said, "I¡¯m leaving."


    Edward Stephens looked at Daisy¡¯s departing figure, then nced disdainfully at his blood-stained clothes, unable to help but curse, "Crazy woman."


    In all his years, he had never seen someone as wildly deranged as Daisy.

 Chapter 9: He said that he could die for her.

    <h4>Chapter 9: Chapter 9: He said that he could die for her.</h4>


    Anyone in the Ginger Residence could tell that Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t happy tonight.


    When Daisy Ginger is unhappy, the entire Ginger Residence feels the pressure.


    She maintained a cold face, and even Emily Ginger and Abigail Perry didn¡¯t dare to provoke her easily.


    Earlier today, Emily tried talking to Daisy but was rebuffed. She went back toin to Abigail, thinking the two of them could team up to humble Daisy¡¯s pride. But seeing how her icy demeanor could kill countless mosquitoes, they backed down, quietly had dinner like chickens, and then retreated to their rooms, defeated.


    Ever since the family¡¯s pir, Gabriel Ginger, died in a car ident, no one in the Ginger Residence dared to cross Daisy.


    Like any wealthy individual, Gabriel Ginger, as a well-known tycoon in Banyan City, had early on arranged for awyer to draft his will. Once he died, that will came into y.


    The inheritance and management rights of the Ginger Group fell to Daisy, but Abigail Perry, as thergest shareholder of the Ginger Group, controlled sixty-five percent of thepany¡¯s shares. Although she held no decision-making power, as thergest shareholder, she could pocket billions annually from dividends. Even with Gabriel deceased, she could live a life of luxury in the Ginger Residence until her end.


    Since learning of this arrangement, Daisy¡¯s temper had worsened. Initially, Emily dared to unt in front of her. Over time, as Abigail¡¯s support waned, Emily acted like a mouse in front of a cat, choosing only to run away.


    Towards this excessively talented and beautiful sister, Emily was fearful.


    If it weren¡¯t for Abigail supporting her from behind, she really wouldn¡¯t dare topete for anything with her.


    *


    The night grazed on.


    Daisy emerged from the study after handling all the affairs; it was already two in the morning.


    She stepped into the bathroom and took a shower.


    Maybe it was because Edward Stephens had frightened her during the day; even after working all night, she felt no sleepiness.


    Lying in bed, she rarely took out a photo album and started looking through the pictures.


    Though she and Edward Stephens grew up together, their photos together were few, a handful from their youth, with faces captured eight years ago.


    The Edward in her memory was a gentle youth, who never raised his voice at her. Even when her bad temper upset him, he would just stop and helplessly gaze at her with those unusually deep eyes.


    He called her "Jiujio," held her hand when they were young, bought her ice cream, and took notes for her when she skipped ss to y games at inte caf¨¦s.


    He doted on her so much that even a minor scratch would make him rush her to the nurse¡¯s office, and with just a word from her, he would face any danger.


    He had said he would die for her.


    Later, he really did...


    A slight pain in her palm was from inadvertently pulling the injured muscle there.


    Daisy lightly furrowed her brow and looked down at the wound on her hand. She hadn¡¯t had time to treat it when she returned; though shallow, it still oozed blood.


    The Edward of today not only fell for another woman but also learned to hurt himself to hurt her.


    Daisy let out a coldugh and closed the album.


    Just thinking of the pathetic state Edward is in now riled her up again!

 Chapter 10: Do I Really Have to Kneel Before You?

    <h4>Chapter 10: Chapter 10: Do I Really Have to Kneel Before You?</h4>


    Perhaps it¡¯s because the hospital was covered in Daisy¡¯s blood that day, logically speaking, the two-week observation period was over, and Edward Stephens should have been discharged, yet his attending physician waved his hand and kept him for another two weeks.


    Though he repeatedly stressed that the blood wasn¡¯t his, when Lady Stephens gazed at him with tearful eyes, Edward could only curse Daisy as a nuisance in his heart and continue his hospital stay with a ck cloud over his head.


    Emily Ginger didn¡¯t dare to confront Daisy head-on, so she spent her days sneaking into the hospital to bring Edward chicken soup. She, a rightful fianc¨¦e, had to act shadier than a mistress under Daisy¡¯s domineering presence.


    Daisy didn¡¯t mind as long as she didn¡¯t see Emily when she went to the hospital.


    After work that day, Daisy went to a nearby florist to buy a bouquet of sunflowers and visit Edward, who had been hospitalized for almost a month.


    She thought that after being in the hospital for so long, he must be bored out of his mind, and perhaps it was time for her to add some joy to his life. As she reached the door, Lady Stephens¡¯s voice suddenly pierced through from inside the ward:


    "Do I really have to kneel for you to listen to your mother?!"


    Daisy¡¯s steps slightly paused at the doorway, hearing Lady Stephens speak with a sob: "Mom doesn¡¯t want you to die, Mom doesn¡¯t want to watch you die with eyes wide open, can¡¯t you just listen to Mom this once?"


    "...It¡¯s been so hard to have this chance, so hard to have hope, Edward, Mom is begging you, don¡¯t let Mom¡¯s heart ache like this! Seeing you in the hospital, seeing you bleed, Mom really can¡¯t take it, do you want Mom to die with you?"


    Suppressing cries came from the ward, Daisy lowered her eyes, looking at the sunflowers cradled in her arms.


    Sunflowers were Edward¡¯s favorite flower, he had said he liked their vibrant life force, yet now to avoid being with her, he seemed to not even want his own life...


    Suddenly, Edward¡¯s hoarse, tense voice was heard from the room: "Mom! What are you doing?! Get up!"


    "Edward, please promise Mom!"


    ...


    Daisy took a slow breath, nning to turn away, and as she looked up, she saw Emily Ginger standing across from her.


    She stood there, meeting Daisy¡¯s gaze with slightly widened eyes, the delicate face of a little princess showing clear disarray.


    She held a thermos, likely there to bring something for Edward, yet had unexpectedly heard such a conversation.


    Daisy smiled at her, calmly and indifferently, but Emily¡¯s face grew paler and paler, she slightly bit her lip, as if afraid to look at Daisy any longer, lifted her skirt, and hurriedly turned to run away.


    This situation no longer suited her immediate entry, Daisy returned downstairs, sat in her car, and lit a cigarette.


    She leaned on her hand, watching the inpatient department¡¯s entrance, until she smoked a third cigarette, and finally saw Lady Stephens¡¯ figure emerge from the inpatient department.


    Lady Stephens appeared absent-minded, and as she passed Daisy¡¯s car, she didn¡¯t notice her, until Daisy spoke up, softly calling her: "Auntie."


    "Daisy?" Lady Stephens seemed startled, seeing her, she patted her chest and gently asked, "You¡¯re here to see Edward? He¡¯s fine now, he can be discharged in a few days, he¡¯s sleeping right now."


    *


    Update, asking for rmendation votes~

 Chapter 11: He Was Always Meant to Be Hers!

    <h4>Chapter 11: Chapter 11: He Was Always Meant to Be Hers!</h4>


    Daisy looked at her face, Lady Stephens had obviously touched up her makeup when she came down, but the eyes don¡¯t lie, they were as red as a rabbit¡¯s.


    Daisy shifted her gaze away and smiled as she pulled out the bouquet of sunflowers from the passenger seat, "Edward used to love them the most. I happened to pass by today and bought a bunch for him. Since he¡¯s asleep now, I¡¯ll go upter. Auntie, do you want to go home? I¡¯ll give you a lift."


    Lady Stephens¡¯ gaze lingered on the bouquet of sunflowers that were blooming vibrantly. She paused for a moment, as if recalling something, and her eyes reddened even more.


    She quickly turned aside, gently rubbed her eyes, suppressing her tears before turning back to Daisy and softly saying, "You are thoughtful, Daisy. I¡¯m heading home now, thank you for the trouble."


    Daisy smiled and opened the car door, letting Lady Stephens get in.


    Familiar with the route, Daisy drove while making small talk with Lady Stephens.


    But Lady Stephens was preupied, lost in thought, not knowing where her mind wandered. Daisy spoke, but seeing no response, she fell into silence.


    Half an hourter, Daisy¡¯s car stopped at the entrance of the Stephens family home.


    The Stephens¡¯ butler was heading out with a lunch box in hand, nning to deliver dinner to Edward. Seeing Lady Stephens get out of Daisy¡¯s car, he was startled and quickly walked over, calling her, "Madam!"


    Leaning against the car window, Daisy smiled and waved at the butler, "You¡¯re delivering food to Edward? I¡¯m heading to the hospital to see him, hand me the lunch box."


    The butler stepped forward, expressing his gratitude and handed her the lunch box. Lady Stephens hadposed herself by then, but she still seemed unwell. She turned and nodded slightly at Daisy, speaking gently, "Thank you, Daisy."


    "It¡¯s no trouble." Daisy smiled, cing the lunch box on the passenger seat, just about to turn around when she heard Lady Stephens softly call out to her from where she stood, "Daisy dear."


    Daisy stopped the car, turned her head to look at her. In the sunset light, Lady Stephens¡¯ gaze was awash with a glimmer of tears, fragile sorrow threaded through her gentle features. Though she said nothing more, Daisy already understood her plea.


    This was a frail and helpless woman, yet a gentle and kind mother. Long ago, Daisy had eaten countless cakes and desserts made by her hands.


    She really liked Lady Stephens. Edward had grown up by her side and learned her gentleness, but somewhere along the line, he also learned her cruelty.


    Daisy gentlyughed, "Auntie, what am I supposed to do afterward?"


    Lady Stephens paused slightly, but she already understood her meaning. Her gaze became even more tremulous and sorrowful. In the end, she reluctantly and slowly averted her gaze.


    If she lost Edward, what was she to do?


    The Ginger Residence was no longer what it once was, all she could hold onto were the people who once belonged to her.


    Edward had already lost the shared memories they had, and now, was she supposed to let him go herself?


    She refused.


    No matter what, no matter what people said, she was determined to have him.


    He was originally hers!


    She wasn¡¯t going to hand him over to someone else!


    *


    Arriving at the hospital, Daisy carried the lunch box and flowers into the ward where Edward was already awake.


    He stood by the window, watching the sunset outside; his profile was extraordinarily handsome. When she approached, a few young nurses were gathered near the doorway peeking in, but when they saw hering, they quickly scattered in fright.

 Chapter 12 Waiting for Me at the Civil Affairs Bureau

    <h4>Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Waiting for Me at the Civil Affairs Bureau</h4>


    Daisy Ginger walked in, and the first thing she saw was the man¡¯s figure standing by the window.


    He stood there like a jade among people, unparalleled in the world.


    Edward Stephens used to be a gentle young boy, graceful as jade, but now he was a dazzling nobleman. Standing there, he seemed a bit thinner, his facial features increasingly sharp and crisp. In the afterglow, he looked almost unrealistically exquisite.


    No wonder the young nurses were infatuated with him.


    The sound of footsteps made the man who was admiring the sunset by the window turn his head. His gaze fell on Daisy Ginger standing at the door with a lunch box. His expression clearly showed a bit of disdain: "Why are you here?"


    Daisy huffed lightly, walked over, and ced the lunch box on the small table. "I lowered myself to bring you food, and this is how you react?"


    Edward Stephens: "You can leave now."


    Tsk, what a jerk.


    Daisy cursed him mentally, ignored him, then walked over and threw out the flowers in the vase, recing them with the sunflowers she brought.


    Daisy poured some water for the sunflowers, then, feeling like she had aplished something great, ced them onto Edward¡¯s dining table and smugly lifted her chin: "Look!"


    Edward was opening the meal box, nced at the silly-looking sunflowers, andmented coldly, "I don¡¯t like them."


    After all, he didn¡¯t like anything she brought.


    Daisy smiled: "Wrong, you do like them. You just have a problem in the head."


    Edward: "..."


    Did shee here just to insult him?


    Toozy to engage in childish bickering with her about whether his head was messed up or not, Edward rolled his eyes at her and sat down at the dining table to begin eating.


    Lady Stephens had someone make his meals ording to his usual preferences. Even though he was hospitalized, he got special treatment with someone personally delivering all three meals a day.


    Daisy sat across from him, watching him eat for a while, then pouted and spoke up: "Edward, I haven¡¯t eaten yet."


    Edward remained expressionless: "Go buy your own food."


    "But I want to eat yours."


    Edward pretended not to hear that.


    Seeing that he really had no intention of sharing any of his dinner with her, Daisy unhappily reached out and snatched his chicken leg.


    Edward: "..."


    Daisy didn¡¯t mind getting her hands dirty, gave him a smug look, and ate the chicken leg right in front of him.


    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that she was a girl, Edward, who had been possessive over his food since a young age, would have been tempted to throw her out right then and there.


    After finishing the chicken leg, Daisy no longer coveted his dinner, went to the bathroom to wash her hands, then came out all smiles and said to Edward: "Edward, I¡¯m leaving now."


    Since Edward didn¡¯t argue with her today, she was in a really good mood.


    Edward continued eating with his back to her, not even giving her a nce.


    Daisy was already used to his indifference, so she wasn¡¯t upset, and still in a very good mood, she picked up her bag and nned to head home.


    As she reached the door, Edward¡¯s voice suddenly came from behind her.


    "On the third of next month, at three in the afternoon, meet me at the civil affairs bureau."


    *


    Please vote for rmendations~

 Chapter 13 I Just Like Him

    <h4>Chapter 13: Chapter 13 I Just Like Him</h4>


    "Next month on the 3rd at three in the afternoon, meet me at the civil affairs bureau."


    Daisy¡¯s steps slightly faltered, then she tilted her head to look at Edward Stephens behind her.


    He was still eating.


    When he said this, even his voice was the same tone as usual when speaking to her, with no change.


    Indifferent and calm.


    Daisy slightly pursed her lips, stubbornly staring at the man¡¯s back, as if trying to see his expression through it.


    From start to finish, Edward Stephens never turned around.


    He continued eating dinner as usual, and after saying that sentence, he remained silent, not caring if Daisy had heard clearly.


    Daisy found that her originally good mood was shattered by Edward Stephens¡¯ words just like that.


    Her lips were tightly pressed together; she stood in ce for a long time before stepping forward to leave.


    Outside the hospital, the sky was alreadypletely dark.


    There were few pedestrians on the street, and the evening breeze was slightly cool.


    She finally got what she wanted, but she realized she wasn¡¯t as happy as she had imagined.


    *


    Daisy went to a nearby bar to drink for a while, only returning home near midnight.


    The night watch servant saw her return, was taken aback, and walked over obsequiously to ask her, "Miss, would you like ate-night snack?"


    Daisy had drunk too much, didn¡¯t have much appetite, and her slender brows lightly furrowed, showing some impatience. The servants at home were all afraid of her, serving her fearfully, afraid of making her angry.


    "Make me a cup of sobering tea."


    Daisy gave the order.


    "Yes, yes. I¡¯ll get right to it."


    The servant hurriedly went to the kitchen upon receiving the order, and Daisy sat on the sofa waiting for a while before slowly heading upstairs with a cup of sobering tea in hand.


    When passing by Abigail Perry¡¯s room, a quiet conversation reached her ears. Daisy wasn¡¯t particrly interested in why they were still awake, but just as she was about to continue forward, she heard Abigail say, "Come on, Edward Stephens is for sure Emily¡¯s. Don¡¯t even think about it. me no one but yourself for being ipetent. Who asked you to not be a match for him? Otherwise, the entire Stephens family would be yours, and you wouldn¡¯t have to live by watching Daisy¡¯s mood?"


    Daisy¡¯s footsteps came to a halt, suddenly intrigued. She listened in while drinking her tea.


    She listened openly, and the servant following her didn¡¯t dare make a sound, only awkwardly listening along with her.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s voice came through stubbornly, "But I just like Edward, and he likes me too. Why should I give him to her?"


    "And what can you do if you don¡¯t let go?" Abigail persuasively continued, "The Stephens family is rare to find someone who can save Edward Stephens. Even if she asks for the moon, the Stephens family would agree, let alone just marrying her? Do you think the Stephens would watch Edward Stephens wait to die? Don¡¯t be foolish. Break up with Edward and quickly find a few wealthy ones. Don¡¯t waste your time on Edward Stephens. Understand?"


    "But I just like Edward," Emily¡¯s voice was already tinged with a sob, as if she was extremely wronged, "I just like him... How can you do this...?"


    *


    New stories, new vibes, new group opening! Group number: 893407550

 Chapter 14: You stole my dad from me when I was little

    <h4>Chapter 14: Chapter 14: You stole my dad from me when I was little</h4>


    Daisy Ginger stood quietly at the door, listening to Abigail Perryforting Emily Ginger on the other side.


    Although Emily Ginger is a naive sweetheart, she has a good mother after all. Over the years, everything from food and clothing, and even finding a boyfriend, has been carefully nned by Abigail Perry.


    After all, they are family.


    Daisy Ginger listened for a while, her mind calming down, losing interest to continue listening.


    She handed the hangover tea in her hand to the servant behind her and said, "I¡¯m going to the study, don¡¯te over."


    Her voice seemed to disturb the two people talking in the bedroom inside. The two voices simultaneously fell silent, Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression was cold and indifferent. She paid no attention and strode towards the study.


    *


    Maybe it was the alcohol, or maybe it was Edward Stephens¡¯ words, or perhaps the content of Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger¡¯s conversation in the room tonight. Daisy Ginger processed a report for a while, finding herself unable to stay calm.


    She simply shut theputer down, leaned on the desk, rested her forehead on her hand, and slowly lit a cigarette.


    Towards Emily Ginger, she felt some disdain, but perhaps the intoxication had not fully faded. Listening to Abigail Perry meticulously nning for her andforting her gently, a ripple of inexplicable envy surfaced in Daisy¡¯s heart.


    If her mother... she surely could now be lying in her arms, acting spoiled, couldn¡¯t she?


    She could cry freely, she couldin without restraint,in why Edward Stephens had forgotten her, why he liked another woman. She could vent all her resentment and dissatisfaction to the person closest to her.


    Because that person would surelyfort her gently.


    Daisy Ginger extinguished the cigarette, stood up from the office chair, and in the dead of night, walked through the vi she grew up in, like a lonely stranger.


    She returned to the bedroom, took a shower, and was about to go to sleep when she suddenly heard a gentle knock at the door.


    Daisy Ginger was using a hair dryer to dry her hair. Hearing the knock, she slowly walked over to open the door.


    Seeing the person at the door, she was slightly surprised, gently raising her slender eyebrows.


    "Can... can Ie in?" Emily Ginger wore a white princess nightdress, her long curly hair like seaweed, fluffy on her shoulders. Her delicate little face was anxious, like a frightened little rabbit, looking at Daisy at the door with big eyes.


    "..." Daisy Ginger stood at the door elegantly, turned off the hairdryer, looking down at her. She said nothing, her gaze cold.


    "I have something to say to you," Emily Ginger mustered up courage and spoke, her eyes meeting Daisy¡¯s with a hint of pleading.


    Daisy Ginger looked at her for a while before stepping aside, allowing Emily to enter. Emily visibly rxed and followed Daisy gingerly inside.


    Daisy Ginger put the hairdryer back in the drawer, turned to lean against the wall, crossed her arms, and tilted her chin slightly. "Go ahead, what¡¯s the matter?"


    Without Abigail Perry, Emily was extremely afraid of Daisy. She nced at Daisy¡¯s alluring face, swallowed nervously, and suddenly caught a whiff of smoke in the air, instinctively saying, "You smoked again?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger tilted her head, looking at Emily, sneered, "You came here to ask me this?"


    "No, not really..." Emily¡¯s face turned red, flustered, "I just think it¡¯s not good for girls to smoke."


    "..." Daisy Ginger looked at her coldly.


    Emily was stared at by Daisy¡¯s cold gaze, her face gradually turning pale. She remained quiet for a moment, biting her lip and gently saying, "Sister, can you let Edward go... you took my dad from me since childhood, why do you want topete with me for Edward too?"

 Chapter 15: The Unloved Person Is the Third Wheel

    <h4>Chapter 15: Chapter 15: The Unloved Person Is the Third Wheel</h4>


    Emily Ginger was stared down by her cold gaze, her face gradually turning pale. After a moment of silence, she bit her lip and softly said to Daisy Ginger, "Sister, please let me have Edward... You¡¯ve taken my father since we were kids, why do you even have to fight me for Edward?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression was remarkably calm. She looked at Emily Ginger and said coldly, "It was you who took my father."


    "Sister..." Emily Ginger started to cry, but before she could finish, Daisy coldly cut her off: "You don¡¯t have the right to call me sister, and I¡¯ve never recognized you as my sister."


    Emily Ginger looked at her in a daze, her face stung by Daisy¡¯s coldness. She cried, "I¡¯m also Dad¡¯s daughter, but you know that since I was a child, I could only hide in the corner, watching Dad hold you. I didn¡¯t even dare to wish for a hug; you could ride on Dad¡¯s shoulders to the amusement park, but I couldn¡¯t even pay for a school trip. Do you know how I feel? What did I do wrong to be born without a father? You took all the paternal love meant for me since we were kids, and now you want to fight me for Edward. Daisy Ginger, you¡¯re so smart and beautiful, why can¡¯t you just give in a little? I don¡¯tpete with you for anything, please don¡¯t tear Edward and me apart, okay?"


    Emily Ginger¡¯s voice was soft and inherently weak; even in such a hysterical state, it didn¡¯t sound unpleasant.


    Daisy Ginger looked at the face somewhat resembling her own, and the coldness in her eyes intensified.


    She couldn¡¯t remember the exact day she first saw Emily Ginger, only remembering that shortly after Gabriel Ginger divorced her mother, he suddenly brought home a mother and daughter pair.


    When she saw Emily Ginger hiding behind Abigail Perry, peeking timidly with a modestly dressed small face, Daisy¡¯s mind buzzed. Not for any other reason, but because Emily¡¯s face shared an eerie resemnce to hers, leading her to realize a terrible truth.


    The most absurd part was Emily was only a few hours younger than her. When her mother was struggling inbor for her father at the hospital, there was also a woman on some remote town hospital giving birth for her father.


    They shared the same birthday.


    From then on, she never celebrated her birthday again.


    The day she learned the truth, she broke down, hiding herself away. It was Edward Stephens who searched all over Banyan City and found her by the sea after three days and nights. Heforted her for a long time, promising her aplete home.


    That night, he made her many perfect promises, as if if she wanted, he would bring her the stars.


    ...


    Daisy Ginger felt a surge ofughter welling up from deep in her throat as she looked at Emily Ginger¡¯s face, and couldn¡¯t help butugh softly.


    She leisurely walked to the coffee table, picked up the lighter, and lit a cigarette.


    "You ask me what you did wrong?" Daisy Ginger tilted her head, looking at her,ughing uncontrobly, "Your mom was the other woman, right? And you, the daughter of the mistress, ask me what was wrong? If I were in your position, I would¡¯ve been too ashamed to face anyone, let alonee asking for this and that from others."


    Emily Ginger pressed her lips together and softly retorted, "Dad loves Mom, the one not loved is the mistress. Daisy Ginger, Edward loves me now, don¡¯t you hate mistresses the most? Do you want to be the identity you despise?"


    *


    Banyan City is a fictional city, do not associate it with real cities

 Chapter 16: I Will Remember to Send You a Wedding Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 16: Chapter 16: I Will Remember to Send You a Wedding Invitation</h4>


    The one who¡¯s not loved is the third party.


    Daisy Ginger trulyughed aloud this time.


    The hand holding the cigarette trembled withughter.


    She stepped forward, stood in front of Emily Ginger, and slowly looked down at her.


    "Emily Ginger."


    She called her by her full name.


    "Back then, who advised you to approach Edward Stephens behind my back?"


    There was a unique allure in her voice. It wasn¡¯t as crisp as an ordinary girl¡¯s voice; instead, it was somewhat deep, making people instinctively want to perk up their ears to listen carefully.


    Emily Ginger trembled slightly, her slender fingers gently clenched, and her eyes couldn¡¯t help but begin to dodge, not daring to meet Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze.


    "I¡ªI like Edward now... I..."


    Daisy Ginger coldly interrupted her: "You knew I liked Edward Stephens, that I was dating him, yet you and Abigail Perry took advantage of my business trip to the UK to approach Edward. Who really is the third party here?!"


    Emily Ginger mped her lips stubbornly, "But Daisy, Edward has already forgotten you, all your past with him no longer matters to him. You¡¯re now forcing him to marry you, which is entirely unreasonable."


    "That has nothing to do with you," Daisy coldly replied, "That¡¯s between Edward and me. What does it have to do with you, Emily Ginger? Even if he has a child in the United States, it¡¯s what he owes me. Who are you to speak on this matter?"


    Emily couldn¡¯t argue with her, especially since she was a bit afraid of Daisy. Standing alone in Daisy¡¯s room, surrounded by her presence, without Abigail there, her current defiance was already an extraordinary effort.


    Being retorted by Daisy like this, she really felt a delusion that Edward had nothing to do with her, her tears falling continuously in grievance.


    "Daisy, why are you like this," she choked, "I really like Edward. I¡¯m not taking anything from you. Can¡¯t you let it go; I¡¯m your sister after all."


    Daisy wasn¡¯t fazed at all: "I told you, I¡¯ve never considered you a sister, and besides, Edward is originally mine. What¡¯s mine isn¡¯t up for you to take."


    Unable to sway Daisy at all, Emily had no idea what to do.


    She looked at her tearfully, like a bewildered rabbit.


    With lips slightly quivering, Emily softly sobbed, "Daisy, by pressuring Edward like this, does it not matter if he ends up hating you?"


    The falling ash burned her fingertip, but Daisy stood still, her hand not trembling at all, her face still wearing that usual mocking smile. She snorted lightly, replying indifferently, "Then let him hate me."


    Daisy¡¯s words left Emilypletely speechless.


    She had never encountered... someone as unreasonable as Daisy before.


    Seeing her stunned expression, Daisy calmly withdrew her gaze, tossed the cigarette butt into the trash, and implied it was time for her to leave.


    "You can go now." As if that wasn¡¯t already infuriating enough, Daisy added, "When Edward and I get married, I¡¯ll make sure to send you a wedding invitation."


    "You... you...!"


    As these words hit her, Emily nearly choked on her own blood, once more reduced to tears by Daisy before being driven out the door in sobs.

 Chapter 17: Did I do something wrong?

    <h4>Chapter 17: Chapter 17: Did I do something wrong?</h4>


    After Emily Ginger caused a fuss, Daisy Ginger surprisingly slept well that night.


    On the weekend, she woke upte, washed up, and leisurely walked downstairs.


    Downstairs, Emily Ginger and Abigail Perry seemed to be arguing about something. When they saw hering down, the mother and daughter both quieted down. Emily Ginger nced at her, stomped her foot in frustration, and went into the dining room.


    Daisy Ginger had no interest in the affairs of the two women, kept her eyes straight, and walked into the dining room, sitting across from Emily Ginger.


    While Daisy Ginger was eating a sandwich and drinking coffee, Emily Ginger was packing soup dumplings into a pink lunch box.


    Daisy Ginger knew who she was going to deliver them to, but didn¡¯t say a word, leisurely eating her breakfast. By the time she finished eating, Emily Ginger had also prepared all her food, carrying her small bag and the lunch box, and went out.


    When Daisy Ginger came to the hall to change her shoes, Abigail Perry was sitting on the sofa, her brows furrowed, and her face didn¡¯t look too good.


    Seeing here out, Abigail Perry got up from the sofa and went straight upstairs.


    Daisy Ginger turned her head and looked at Abigail Perry¡¯s still graceful figure, nearly fifty years old.


    Emily Ginger inherited Abigail Perry¡¯s looks, but it was clear she didn¡¯t inherit Abigail Perry¡¯s intelligence.


    The mother and daughter seemed equally noisy, but Abigail Perry managed to rise from a rural working girl to marry Gabriel Ginger, sessfully entering high society as a socialite and controlling sixty-five percent of the Gingers¡¯ shares. It wasn¡¯t just her innocent-looking face.


    Though she gained her position as the third wife and joined the household, now, no one in the Ginger Residence dislikes her.


    Daisy Ginger withdrew her gaze, her face turning stern, and walked out.


    It was initially because of Edward Stephens¡¯s status as the heir of the Stephens family that she took advantage of Edward¡¯s return to Banyan City, and the three-month business trip she had in the UK, to make Emily Ginger and the amnesiac Edward Stephens get along.


    This woman has sharp eyes, ample patience, and deep scheming, she must be guarded against.


    *


    When Daisy Ginger arrived at the hospital room door, Emily Ginger had just gotten there as well.


    She still seemed to hold a grudge over what was saidst night. When she saw her, she raised her chin slightly, snorted coldly, didn¡¯t even nce at her, and opened the door to go inside.


    Inside the room, Edward Stephens stood by the window, his back appearing calm and imposing.


    "Edward!"


    Emily Ginger, seeing her beloved, called out sweetly and rushed up to him.


    She appeared eager to undermine Daisy Ginger¡¯s confidence and make her see the reality that she and Edward Stephens were meant to be, forgetting the usual habit of avoiding her whenever she saw her.


    Upon hearing the voice, Edward Stephens turned his head, but his gaze didn¡¯t fall on Emily Ginger at first.


    He looked indifferently at the woman leaning against the door frame, arms crossed, half-smiling, before speaking to Emily Ginger, "Put your things down, I have something to say to you."


    "Edward, look!" Emily Ginger,cking judgment, perhaps spoiled by Edward Stephens, heard him say this and still wanted to cling to him, opening the pink lunch box in her hand to show him the soup dumplings she had specifically brought for him, "I brought you your favorite..."


    Edward Stephens interrupted her, "Put your things down."


    His voice was colder than usual, and his distinguished, striking face also showed signs of cold severity. Emily Ginger¡¯s eyes widened slightly, clearly frightened, and she looked at him somewhat bewildered, cautiously asking, "Edward, what¡¯s wrong? Did, did I do something wrong?"

 Chapter 18: Heart So Cruel, Yet So Tough

    <h4>Chapter 18: Chapter 18: Heart So Cruel, Yet So Tough</h4>


    Edward Stephens looked at her, a trace of solemnity emerging in his deep-set brows. He was not a reticent or indifferent man; on the contrary, the young master of the Stephens family was born with a smile. Even when he wasn¡¯t smiling, his thin lips naturally formed a slight curve, exuding an inherent charm and casual elegance.


    But at this moment, the corners of his lips turned downwards, his thin lips tightly pressed together. That noble and youthful face embodied an aura of authoritative presence typical of the Stephens family. Emily Ginger had been with Edward Stephens for so long, had seen his gentle smile, but had never seen him look so cold and aloof.


    She felt a bit at a loss, not knowing what she did wrong, raising her face like a small animal, with a confused and frightened expression.


    Edward Stephens looked on, adding anotheryer to his resentment toward Daisy Ginger.


    But things hade to this point; continuing his rtionship with Emily Ginger was indeed impossible.


    He said, "I have already filed for the annulment with the Ginger Residence."


    Emily Ginger slightly trembled, and the small lunchbox in her hands fell to the ground with a crisp sound.


    The food she had carefully chosen for him scattered on the floor, the sauce spilling everywhere.


    "Ed, Edward..." Emily Ginger whispered, trembling, "I don¡¯t want to break up..."


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze, saying indifferently, "I¡¯ll transfer the breakup fee to your ount; your mother will be satisfied with the amount."


    Emily Ginger stood there, tears streaming from her eyes as she cried, "I truly love you."


    "I know," Edward Stephens replied. He wasn¡¯t foolish; of course, he could tell whether his girlfriend was sincere.


    He knew Emily Ginger approached him because of Abigail Perry¡¯s words, and he also knew Emily really liked him.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have agreed to the engagement.


    Marriage, naturally, requires finding someone you love who loves you back.


    But now, he was destined to owe her much.


    Emily Ginger cried so hard she couldn¡¯t speak, her shoulders trembling. After a while, she finally stammered, "Edward, I know it was wrong to approach you at first... but I really love you... I¡¯ll tell you everything, please don¡¯t be angry, okay? I¡¯ll tell you everything... I don¡¯t want to break up..."


    Edward Stephens slowly raised his hand, gently cing it on Emily Ginger¡¯s hair. The warmth in his palm was faint, but still retained a hint of warmth. Emily looked up hopefully at Edward¡¯s face, only to see his eyes filled with gentle yet distant emotion.


    He said, "I know everything. I won¡¯t me you. This time, I was the one who wronged you first. You didn¡¯t do anything wrong; you don¡¯t have to apologize to me."


    He quickly withdrew his hand, stepped back, and leaned against the windowsill.


    "Your mother will find you a good match, don¡¯t waste too much of your thoughts on me," he said, looking out the window with a mild calm in his voice, "You can¡¯t cure this illness of mine, and I can¡¯t watch my mother kneel before me over and over. This isn¡¯t your fault; it¡¯s mine. Emily, I¡¯m sorry, but let¡¯s break up."


    So he knew everything¡ªshe had been prompted by Abigail Perry to approach him, and her mother was searching for other rich suitors for her. He knew it all.


    Emily Ginger stood there dumbfounded, as if meeting this man for the first time. In the moment of losing him, she suddenly realized that he really did love her too.


    "I, I don¡¯t want to break up..." Emily Ginger shook her head, replying somewhat bewildered. She turned her head to look at Daisy Ginger, who was standing by the door with her arms crossed, watching like a spectator, a cool and thin smile on her lips. She couldn¡¯t understand how any woman could have a heart so cold and hard.

 Chapter 19: If I Don’t Allow It, No One Can Take It

    <h4>Chapter 19: Chapter 19: If I Don¡¯t Allow It, No One Can Take It</h4>


    "Daisy, Daisy Ginger," her voice was thick with nasality, making her seem innocent and fragile, "Please don¡¯t force Edward to marry you, okay? He doesn¡¯t like you, you won¡¯t be happy together."


    "Ah," Daisy Ginger chuckled lightly, her tone filled with interest and indifference, "Your issues, don¡¯t drag me into them. How about you settle on your breakup fee first?"


    Emily Ginger had just stopped crying, and was almost moved to tears again by Daisy Ginger¡¯s remark.


    How, how can there be a woman as terrible as Daisy Ginger...


    Edward Stephens looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s amused expression, his brows lowered slightly, and he said to Emily Ginger, "I¡¯ve already decided about the breakup, you don¡¯t need to beg her. I have something to say to her, you should leave first."


    Emily Ginger sobbed, wiping away tears, stubbornly shook her head, reaching out to grab Edward¡¯s hand: "Edward, no, I don¡¯t want to leave, I want to stay with you, we..."


    "Emily," Edward Stephens¡¯ voice turned cold, his dark eyes focused on her face, indifferently said, "We¡¯ve already broken up."


    Emily Ginger¡¯s hand reached out in mid-air, helplessly curled back under Edward Stephens¡¯ stern and cold expression, fearfully withdrew and dared not touch even a corner of his clothes. She stared nkly at Edward¡¯s face for a while before asking, "Will you really marry Daisy Ginger?"


    "It¡¯s none of your business."


    Emily Ginger stood in ce, looked up at him for a moment, the small brightness in her eyes gradually extinguished under the man¡¯s calm expression, she released a tiny, animal-like whimper from her throat, slowly stiffening her body, held her face and left the room.


    Any girl would find it unbearable when spoken to by someone they loved like that.


    Once Emily Ginger left, Daisy Ginger closed the door.


    Her face held a bright and radiant smile, Edward Stephens looked at her smirking appearance and indifferently turned away, sat on the sofa, and lit a cigarette.


    Daisy Ginger walked cheerfully, moved next to Edward Stephens, smiling at the man sitting expressionless on the sofa.


    "You can leave too."


    "Doesn¡¯t Mr. Stephens have something to say to me?"


    Edward Stephens raised his head slowly, looking through the hazy smoke at her exceptionally enchanting face.


    She was beautiful, and her smile was even more dazzling, at this moment, the smile in her eyes made his pupils grow ever deeper, pitch ck.


    "Happy?"


    "Feeling like I was metaphorically cuckolded countless times, how would I be happy?" Daisy Ginger replied casually, twirling her long hair.


    Edward Stephens watched the smile on her rosy lips, suddenly leaned in, with a slightly smoky hand, grabbed Daisy Ginger¡¯s sharp chin.


    He leaned closer to her face, almost at kissing distance, his tone low and almost sinister: "Daisy Ginger, no one has ever forced me like this."


    Daisy Ginger tilted her head slightly, blinked innocently with deepughter on her face and said, "Then I... am, um, honored?"


    Edward Stephens quietly looked at her for a moment, his eyes deeper than ordinary people, so dark they reflected no light.


    The gentle aura that surrounded him vanished, as if invisible ck mist swirled, emitting oppressive pressure from him.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s smile remained unchanged, staring into the man¡¯s pitch-ck pupils.


    Rather than let you marry another woman, I¡¯d rather let you hate me.


    After all, if I don¡¯t allow it, no one can take it away.

 Chapter 20: "Hello, we meet again.

    <h4>Chapter 20: Chapter 20: "Hello, we meet again.</h4>


    "Then, see you on the third of next month."


    Bowing her head, Daisy Ginger took a puff from the cigarette between the man¡¯s fingers, smiling as she softly spoke to him.


    Her voice was low, yet it carried a naturally husky and subtly ambiguous tone that drew attention to the words sliding off her lips. As one¡¯s gaze continued downward, they would notice her rosy lips, which currently wore a fleeting, teasing smile.


    She was the type of woman who could easily invoke a man¡¯s desire to conquer her. Even Edward Stephens, who felt nothing for her, was overtaken by a malicious urge to see thatposed face of hers crumble and cry.


    Amidst the swirling fog of their gazes, one face remained expressionless, while the other was brimming with a smile.


    Edward Stephens chuckled faintly. He released Daisy¡¯s chin, leaned back against the soft sofa, averted his gaze, and said coldly, "Get out."


    He feared his uncontroble impulse to hit her.


    Daisy chuckled softly and, not pressing further, indeed left.


    However, as she turned away, she kicked aside the pink lunch box Emily Ginger had brought. It was unclear why she harbored such deep-seated resentment toward her sister before she walked away with light footsteps.


    By morning, the sun had fully risen outside the window. Edward Stephens sat on the sofa, resting his face on his hand, unmoving.


    After a long time, he opened his eyes and his gaze fell upon the cigarette butt between his fingers that had gone out.


    The small cigarette butt had a faint red lipstick mark on it. Edward nced at it before raising his hand and throwing it into the trash can.


    Despite being a woman, who knew why she had a stronger nicotine craving than most men, insisting on taking a puff even when he merely held it.


    *


    The news of Edward Stephens and Emily Ginger¡¯s broken engagement quickly reached Lady Stephens.


    Clearly, Lady Stephens was delighted and even invited her over for dinner when Edward was discharged from the hospital.


    She switched gears faster than flipping a book, quickly epting her as a daughter-inw.


    Daisy ginger was in her office, listening to a financial report from her secretary. She gestured for the secretary to be silent as she talked to Lady Stephens on the phone.


    "Is Edward being discharged today?"


    "He¡¯ll be discharged in the afternoon," Lady Stephens¡¯ voice was full of joy, "Come over then, he¡¯s just returning home. I¡¯ve asked the cook to prepare your favorite dishes, Daisy, you muste."


    Daisy chuckled lightly, "Alright, I will."


    It seemed Lady Stephens was genuinely happy for saving her son.


    "My tailor made a few dresses for you,e try them on today and see if you like them."


    "Thank you, auntie."


    Lady Stephens sweetly said a few more things before telling her to work well and hanging up the phone.


    "Continue the report."


    Daisy put down the phone, her previously faint smile instantly vanished, and resting her chin, she instructed the secretary.


    The secretary nced at her face, as calm and cool as mist, and only felt she was ever more unfathomable. Though she had been smiling during the call, there wasn¡¯t a trace ofughter in her gaze.


    He became secretly apprehensive, reporting his work even more meticulously and cautiously.


    *


    After work, Daisy drove to the florist to buy a bouquet of sunflowers before turning the car towards the Stephens family home.


    When she arrived, Edward Stephens waszily leaning against the sofa in the lounge, ying on an iPad.


    Holding the flowers, Daisy smiled brightly and greeted him, "Hello, we meet again."

 Chapter 21: Strong Will Despite Physical Disabilities

    <h4>Chapter 21: Chapter 21: Strong Will Despite Physical Disabilities</h4>


    Edward Stephens saw her, frowned, got up from the sofa, and coldly asked, "What are you doing here?"


    "What are you watching?" Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t answer, she just paced over curiously, leaning her head closer to see the English financial news page on Edward Stephens¡¯ iPad.


    "Wow, strong mind, despite the disabled body." Daisymented.


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    If murder were not illegal, this woman might have died at his hands countless times already.


    "Daisy, you¡¯re here." Lady Stephens heard her voice and came down from the second floor with a radiant smile. Today, she wore a light green, form-fitting long dress, which made her look very elegant, gentle, and clean.


    "Auntie." Daisy stuck her tongue out at Edward Stephens, then walked over and handed the sunflowers she was holding to the servant following Lady Stephens, "Did Ie too early?"


    "Not too early, not too early, dinner is almost ready, you came just in time, Daisy." Lady Stephens held her hand as if she was very pleased with her, pulling her towards the dining room. As they reached the door, she realized she hadn¡¯t called her son for dinner and turned to Edward Stephens, "Edward, why are you still sitting there, hurry up ande over!"


    Edward Stephens sat on the sofa, feeling like he had no status at all at home.


    He looked up and saw Daisy standing next to his mother, secretlyughing at him.


    She must be truly smug now.


    Just the thought of eventually having topromise with this woman made Edward Stephens¡¯ dark eyes turn gloomy.


    *


    The dinner was veryvish, made to the standards of a five-star hotel, mostly full of things Daisy liked.


    Daisy, wearing gloves, peeled a shrimp and tossed it into Edward Stephens¡¯ bowl, then winked at him.


    Edward Stephens nced at her, expressionless, raised his hand, and with a flick of his chopsticks, tossed the shrimp out of the bowl.


    Daisy¡¯s smile didn¡¯t change, though she cursed inwardly, this damn man, he used to love shrimp, how could he not cherish food now!


    If he won¡¯t eat it, she will!


    Daisy peeled all the shrimp from the bowl of boiled shrimp in front of her in one go, giving half to Lady Stephens and putting half in her own bowl, ignoring Edward Stephens¡¯ brooding expression.


    Halfway through the dinner, Lady Stephens smiled and spoke: "Edward, when do you two n to get the marriage certificate? Should I invite a master to pick a date, since getting married is such a big deal?"


    Edward Stephens continued eating without even lifting his eyelids, his voice indifferent: "No need, the third of next month."


    "And the wedding?"


    "Who¡¯s to say when we¡¯ll get divorced, why waste time holding a wedding?"


    Lady Stephens quickly nced at Daisy¡¯s expression, then kicked Edward Stephens under the table and smiled catingly at Daisy: "Daisy, let¡¯s get the certificate first, and I¡¯ll find a master to pick a good day for the weddingter, okay?"


    Daisy had already eaten her fill, propping up her face on the dining chair, smiling sweetly at Edward Stephens, who wouldn¡¯t even look at her. She yed with the leftover shrimp in her bowl and said lightly, "The wedding really isn¡¯t necessary. If Edward doesn¡¯t like it, then we won¡¯t hold it."


    After all, what she wanted was the name on the other half of his household registration book, the wedding ceremony, all that is superficial; it can wait until Edward Stephens recovers his memory.


    Or to put it another way, having the wedding once Edward Stephens has recovered his memory would be more meaningful.


    Thinking of this, the smile on Daisy¡¯s face took on a gentle warmth.

 Chapter 22: "See you on the 3rd of next month.

    <h4>Chapter 22: Chapter 22: "See you on the 3rd of next month.</h4>


    After dinner, the sky had turnedpletely dark.


    Lady Stephens called her upstairs and gave her two dresses.


    The dresses were handmade by Lady Stephens¡¯s tailor, withoutbels, exquisitely crafted with embroidery unparalleled in intricacy, invaluable beyond measure.


    Everyone in the Stephens family not only has their own chauffeur and butler but also their own designer, tailor, and family doctor.


    These people have served the Stephens family for generations, exclusively for them.


    Such people cannot be supported by an ordinary listedpany.


    And such a level of living standard requires the umtion of wealth over several generations.


    It was only upon Edward Stephens¡¯s return that she realized how wealthy the Stephens family truly was.


    They could be said to be as rich as a nation.


    No wonder Abigail Perry, upon learning this, would act swiftly.


    Daisy Ginger was walking down from upstairs, carrying packaging bags when Edward Stephens was just returning from taking a walk around therge garden of the Stephens family.


    As he passed by her, his gaze didn¡¯t fall on her in the slightest.


    Daisy Ginger called out to him: "Edward."


    The man turned his head slightly, casting a sidelong nce at her, without speaking.


    Daisy Ginger smiled: "I¡¯m heading home."


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze, scoffing lightly: "Do you want me to escort you?"


    Daisy Ginger replied cheerfully: "Sure."


    Edward Stevens turned his head, looking at her as if she was a fool.


    Daisy Ginger, seeing his expression, couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, quickly stepped forward, stood next to Edward, and after a few seconds of eye contact, suddenly stood on tiptoe and kissed him on the lips.


    Edward Stephens seemed unprepared for her actions, his brows furrowed intensely, a clear trace of disgust shed through his dark eyes.


    "Have you kissed Emily Ginger?"


    "..."


    "No worries, I¡¯ll make sure to disinfect you properlyter." Daisy Ginger smiled brightly at him, "I¡¯ll wash clean wherever she¡¯s touched you."


    Edward Stephens was once again amused by her.


    "Daisy Ginger, are you really out of your mind?"


    Where does such strong possessivenesse from, even taking charge of women he¡¯s been with?


    Daisy Ginger calmly corrected: "Edward, it¡¯s you who are truly out of your mind."


    She spoke withplete seriousness, making Edward Stephens¡¯s fingers itch slightly; he clenched his fist tightly, then raised his hand, grabbed Daisy Ginger by the neck and dragged her out of the hall.


    "Get lost." He stood at the door, looking down on her without mercy, and said.


    Daisy Ginger stood opposite him, her bright eyes ncing at him, blinking gently.


    Under the moonlight, a phantomyer enveloped her, making her face, despite beingbative, appear somewhat meek.


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she seemed a bit happy, the shimmering eyes were dotted with starlight.


    Edward Stevens nced at her, unwilling to bother with why she¡¯s happy, and withdrew his gaze, turning to leave.


    "Edward!"


    Daisy Ginger called him again, but Edward Stephens didn¡¯t turn back, hearing the sound of something rushing from behind, instinctively turned around, only to be embraced tightly by Daisy Ginger.


    His lips hurt again, bitten by her, the woman¡¯s cheerful voice sounded in his ear¡ª


    "See you on the third of next month."

 Chapter 23: Mom, I’m Getting Married

    <h4>Chapter 23: Chapter 23: Mom, I¡¯m Getting Married</h4>


    The entire Ginger Residence could see it.


    Their Director Ginger had been in a very good moodtely.


    Although she always had a smile at home, after spending much time together, everyone could tell whether it was a genuine smile or a fake one.


    If someone at the Ginger Residence was in a good mood, naturally someone else was not.


    However, Emily Ginger¡¯s bad mood didn¡¯t have much impact. The household staff could easily coax and console her, unlike how they had to be cautious and attentive with Daisy Ginger.


    Thus, life for everyone in the Ginger Residence had improved noticeably.


    That morning, Daisy Ginger got up very early.


    When she came downstairs, she was already dressed up, wearing a lc French vintage spaghetti strap dress. It was rare for her to dress so gracefully, and with a sweet smile on her face, she was quite appealing.


    "Miss, are you going outter?" The butler approached and inquired kindly. Daisy, in a good mood, nodded, "Yes, ask the driver to fill up the car¡¯s tank. I¡¯ll leave after breakfast."


    Receiving the order, the butler immediately picked up the phone to call the driver, while Daisy entered the dining room, surrounded by the household staff.


    "Miss, what would you like for breakfast?" A maid diligently set the table in front of her andplimented her makeup, "Your makeup looks great today. Miss, are you going out on a date with Mr. Stephens?"


    The shadow of Daisy Ginger taking her own sister¡¯s fianc¨¦ seemed to have long faded with Daisy¡¯s recent attitude. For some time now, Daisy had be so agreeable that it felt as if she had changed into a different person. Everyone couldn¡¯t help but secretly think¡ªif she had taken him sooner, it would have been better... What is Emilypared to making Daisy happy? That would be best for everyone.


    "Oh, no," Daisy sipped her coffee, "a sandwich will do." She nced outside the door, where Emily Ginger entered gloomily, apanied by Abigail Perry. Both mother and daughter had lost quite a bit of weighttely. Emily looked haggard with swollen eyes, and Abigail appeared worried, her brows furrowed, showing signs of distress.


    As the two entered the dining area and saw Daisy sitting inside, the clear morning sunlight shone on Daisy, making her skin glow so much it was almost dazzling.


    Just after sitting down, Emily couldn¡¯t help but redden her eyes upon seeing the radiant Daisy and whispered to Abigail, "Mom... I don¡¯t have much of an appetite; I¡¯ll head back to my room first."


    Her voice was hoarse, presumably from crying alone in her room often during this period.


    Daisy¡¯s sandwich arrived, and she took it, bit into it, and nced at Emily.


    Abigail furrowed her brows and urged, "Emily, you didn¡¯t eatst night either. If you don¡¯t eat, you¡¯ll have to go to the hospital."


    Emily shook her head, stood up dejectedly, and headed outside the dining room.


    "Emily, you..." Abigail sighed helplessly, pursing her lips in frustration, yet she still chased after her.


    She only had this one precious daughter. Although she wasn¡¯t great, she couldn¡¯t bear for anything to truly happen to her.


    Daisy drank her coffee, crunching on lettuce, undisturbed by Emily and Abigail¡¯s presence, enjoying her breakfast in high spirits.


    *


    After breakfast, Daisy drove out to a nearby stationery store to buy a bunch of paints and drawing paper.


    Holding a pile of art supplies, she turned the car around and headed towards her destination.


    She didn¡¯t turn on the navigation. Over the years, she had traveled this road so many times that she could drive it with her eyes closed.


    The car slowly came to a stop at a secluded hospital on a hilltop.


    The guard at the gate saw her face and proactively opened the gate. Daisy carried the drawing paper, slowly walking towards the ward.


    The attending doctor had juste out of the ward. Upon seeing her, the doctor gave a friendly smile, familiar with Daisy. Daisy nodded slightly to her and only gently entered the room after the doctor left.


    This was more urately described as a studio than a ward.


    The air was filled with the scent of oil and paint. The walls, floor, and even the ceiling were covered with oil paintings.


    Everywhere she looked,rge swathes of vibrant color covered the view,sting so long it could give someone goosebumps.


    A slender figure in a blue and white hospital gown sat by the window, painting with a brush.


    Daisy walked over, cing the drawing tools she carried next to the easel, recing the paints and cleaning the brushes.


    Then, she gentlybed the woman¡¯s head full of white hair, tying it neatly at the back.


    As she did all this, the woman remained motionless, as if she hadn¡¯t even noticed her presence.


    Daisy brought over a small stool, sat beside the woman, propped her chin on her hand, and smiled while watching the woman¡¯s profile for a while before gently saying, "Mom, I¡¯m getting married."


    She seemed somewhat happy while talking, her tone very tender, "It¡¯s the boy from the house next to us we used to live in. He always came over to our house to find me. Do you remember?"


    "He wasn¡¯t in good health before, and now he¡¯s even more seriously ill... his mind isn¡¯t well either," Daisy muttered softly and then perked up, "But once we¡¯re married, he¡¯ll get better."


    "You used to always advise me not to smoke. Recently, I feel much better, and I think I¡¯ll be able to quit smoking soon."


    "Next time, I¡¯ll bring over the marriage certificate for you to see, okay?"


    "I n to... postpone the wedding until he fully recovers. Then Mom cane with me, okay? I want to hold Mom¡¯s hand and marry the one I love."


    ...


    Daisy carefully recounted what had happened during this period to the woman in front of her. Then, with a towel, she gently wiped the paint off the woman¡¯s face.


    The woman¡¯s features bore a seventy percent resemnce to hers, but with a more artistic aura, sitting quietly in the sunlight, like a clean and clear ink painting.


    In her youth, her beauty and talent captivated the entire Banyan City. No woman couldpete with her, and no one could help but admire her excellence.


    Later...


    She went mad.


    Madder than to the point where she couldn¡¯t even recognize her daughter.


    Once, Alice Lesser was the most extraordinary in Banyan City. Now, she was just a lunatic imprisoned in Greenhill Hospital.


    Those who had harmed her for half her life, one died in a car ident, and the other took over herpany, iming everything that once belonged to her.


    "Mom, don¡¯t worry. Thepany is doing well now. I¡¯m keeping everything you left me safe, and I¡¯ll get back what was taken." She reached out, gently holding the woman¡¯s cool, soft fingers, cing them against her face with a touch of coquettishness, "When the timees, Mom must get better. That house is so big, with Edward and me living there, it¡¯s too empty."

 Chapter 24: Tomorrow, I am going to marry him

    <h4>Chapter 24: Chapter 24: Tomorrow, I am going to marry him</h4>


    All day long, Daisy Ginger stayed at Greenhill Hospital, apanying her mother.


    It had been almost seven years since she divorced Gabriel Ginger and moved here, and she never moved out again.


    Her mother lost any desire tomunicate with the outside world; Gabriel Ginger¡¯s betrayalpletely shut her in, and no external stimuli could elicit any response from her.


    The doctors said it was severe acquired autism, and it might remain this way for the rest of her life.


    In the evening, Daisy held her mother¡¯s hand as they strolled in the hospital¡¯s small garden.


    The garden wasn¡¯trge; on thewn, there were many caretakers walking with patients whose conditions had improved.


    Fearing her mother was afraid of strangers, Daisy took her to a less crowded spot to enjoy the breeze.


    She found a small bench and led Alice Lesser to sit down.


    The evening breeze was slightly cool, and Daisy covered her mother¡¯s shoulders with a shawl while talking to her.


    "Mom, do you remember that one year on my birthday, Edward bought out all the fireworks in Banyan City, and we, along with Dad... the four of us spent the whole night setting off fireworks by the sea... That summer was so beautiful, do you remember?"


    "Do you remember the teddy bear Edward gave me? It could talk and looked quite silly... but a few years ago the recording broke. I tried to get it fixed, but it couldn¡¯t be repaired."


    "The perfume he gave me... I identally broke it when I was arguing with Dad..."


    When speaking of Edward Stephens, it seemed she had endless stories to tell.


    The first time she snuck a drink, the first time she smoked a cigarette, the first bottle of perfume she received, her first pair of high heels, the first time someone, with such slender arms, tremblingly held her and promised a future.


    So many firsts were rted to that Edward Stephens.


    He looked at her with a helpless yet gentle smile, holding her hand and blushing secretly, calling her "Ginger" softly, his eyes bright, warm, and happy.


    She remembered it all, truly, couldn¡¯t forget.


    No way to forget.


    She liked him so much.


    Even if he no longer remembered her, she still liked him very much.


    "Tomorrow, I¡¯m going to marry him."


    "Mom, everything will get better, won¡¯t it?"


    "Being with him, I will surely be happy, right?"


    It was getting dark.


    Daisy took her mother back to the ward.


    The woman sat on the bed like a delicate doll, motionless.


    Daisy looked at her for a while, then gently reached out and embraced her tenderly.


    "I¡¯lle back to see you next month."


    "The work at thepany is a bit busy during this period, please don¡¯t me me, Mom."


    "Hmm... once Edward remembers the past, I¡¯ll bring him to see you. He¡¯ll surely be happy to see you too."


    "Don¡¯t me him for noting to see you now... after all, he doesn¡¯t remember..." Daisy took a slight intake of breath and gently buried her face in her mother¡¯s arms, "We all know, it¡¯s not his fault... isn¡¯t it..."


    Everything will get better, whether it¡¯s with Edward Stephens or with her own mother.


    The things that belong to her will all return.


    In this world, there is no useless waiting. Fate is on her side; she and Edward Stephens are destined to be together.

 Chapter 25 "Naive.

    <h4>Chapter 25: Chapter 25 "Naive.</h4>


    On the third day, Daisy Ginger only worked half a day.


    Since inheriting thepany, she had always been diligent, neverte or leaving early, so when the secretary heard her say she wanted to cancel all afternoon meetings, he was a bit surprised.


    Watching Daisy Ginger walk out with her bag, she still had the mood to joke with him: "Today is my big day." Mr. Secretary didn¡¯t know what to say, amodating Daisy Ginger¡¯s good mood ofte, he offered apliment: "Then I wish Director Ginger an early bundle of joy."


    Daisy Ginger stood at the door, gently smiled at his words, her eyebrows rxed, and her charm at that moment made even his heart, ustomed to her beauty, beat intensely several times.


    *


    Daisy Ginger originally wanted to invite Edward Stephens out for a candlelight lunch before getting the marriage certificate, but after sending a message, that rotten man didn¡¯t reply. Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t mind, still in a great mood, she drank red wine and ate steak.


    She never wronged herself.


    After lunch, she stayed at the western restaurant until two o¡¯clock, reviewed several emails from thepany, and then drove to the marriage registration office.


    At three o¡¯clock, Edward Stephens drove to the entrance of the marriage registration office.


    He hadn¡¯t even got out of the car when he saw Daisy Ginger from a distance.


    It wasn¡¯t for any other reason, but because she... stood out too much.


    On her wedding day, she didn¡¯t wear anything special, probably because she came directly after work. She wore a ck officedy skirt on the bottom, a white silk shirt on top, the sleeves rolled up to her forearms, revealing a section of her fair wrist, leaning against the corner smoking. Such a stark ck and white, proper work attire, on Daisy Ginger appeared so vivid that it made one suspect if there was an issue with their eyesight; it felt extraordinarily morous.


    She didn¡¯t look like she was here to get married, but to break up couples.


    Just standing there in the corner, couples passing by couldn¡¯t help but sneak peeks at her, the men ncing back repeatedly, causing the women¡¯s faces to darken increasingly.


    Edward had just gotten out of the car when Daisy saw him, tossed away her cigarette, and cheerfully called out to him: "Edward!"


    Then she ran over to him.


    Edward had just raised his hand to stop Daisy fromunching herself at him like a cannonball when she already stretched her arms, wrapping them around his neck, and kissed him on the lips.


    Feeling the softness on his lips, Edward¡¯s brows furrowed: "You..."


    Daisy happily kissed him again.


    Edward: "What exactly are you..."


    Another kiss.


    Edward: "......"


    Daisy held him, her eyes blinking, a mischievous smile sparkling within, as if to say, go on, speak.


    Edward: "Shameless."


    Daisy proudly: "I¡¯m happy."


    Edward¡¯s hand itched. Seeing her brilliant smile, he wanted to pinch her cheek.


    He pulled her off him, nced at the time, and said with a somewhat cold tone: "It¡¯s about time."


    He took the lead in walking forward.


    After a few steps, he felt Daisy follow, her slender fingers slipping into his palm, holding his hand.


    His palm warm and soft, Edward paused, turned his head to nce at the woman beside him, seeing her lips slightly upturned, eyes bright. Seeing him look over, she even stuck her tongue out at him.


    Childish.


    Edward judged silently, letting her hold his hand, not bothering to shake it off.


    **


    Although I also don¡¯t know where it¡¯s sad... but if you say it is, then sad it shall be [affectionate face]

 Chapter 26 I sit in the passenger seat of my husband’s car, as it is only natural

    <h4>Chapter 26: Chapter 26 I sit in the passenger seat of my husband¡¯s car, as it is only natural</h4>


    Half an hourter, both of them had a little red book in hand.


    In the driver¡¯s seat, Edward Stephens frowned, staring at the red book in his hand for a long time, lost in thought.


    Daisy Ginger put hers inside the inner pocket of her bag where she kept her ID, nced at Edward Stephens, then reached out her hand towards him.


    Edward turned his head, gave her a nce, and asked impatiently, "What?"


    "Give it to me."


    Edward returned the marriage certificate, frowning, and asked, "Why do you want it?"


    "To keep it safe for you," Daisy said confidently, "Who knows what you might do with my marriage certificate."


    Edward stuffed the marriage certificate into his pocket and sneered upon hearing this, coldly saying, "I should be the one saying that to you."


    Daisy watched his actions, blinked, and Edward, seeing her expression, knew she was thinking of some mischief. He tapped her forehead with his index finger and warned, "Don¡¯t mess around with the marriage certificate, understood?"


    Daisy shot him a look, her thoughts unknown, but for once, she didn¡¯t rebut him. Her lips curled up, the line of her lips refusing to be suppressed, as she crossed her arms and haughtily "hmphed" while turning her head.


    So proud, what¡¯s with the hmpf?


    Edward inwardly cursed her theatrics, just as he was about to drive, his phone suddenly rang. As he reached to answer it, Daisy quickly snatched the phone and pressed the answer button.


    Edward hated others touching his things the most. He frowned, about to give a warning, when Abigail Perry¡¯s anxious voice came through the phone, "Edward, where are you? Emily is missing. Her phone won¡¯t connect. Please help me find her..."


    Edward¡¯s breath caught, he reached for the phone in Daisy¡¯s hand, frowned, and responded sternly, "What¡¯s going on?"


    Daisy sat with her knees hugged in the passenger seat, watched Edward¡¯s deeply furrowed brow, and pursed her lips.


    Yet, for once, she didn¡¯t speak up.


    Abigail¡¯s voice was a chaotic mess of panic, "She¡¯s been acting strangetely, not eating every day. I thought she¡¯d get back to normal in a few days, but when I went to her room just now, I discovered she didn¡¯te homest night. It¡¯s all my fault, if only I had paid more attention to her... What should I do, Edward, I only have one daughter..."


    By the end, her speech was disjointed, clearly terrified.


    Edward said in a deep voice, "I¡¯ll send someone to find her immediately. Have you called the police?"


    "Yes, yes, but..."


    "Stay put at home and don¡¯t wander around. I¡¯ll go check the surveince now."


    After hanging up, Edward made another call, his face tense as he instructed someone to track Emily Ginger¡¯s whereabouts.


    Daisyzily leaned in the passenger seat, ying with a set of car keys with her fingertips, watching him with dark, stormy eyes, and casually remarked, "Why the hurry? No one¡¯s going to die."


    Edward looked at her indifference and coldly reminded, "She¡¯s your sister."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Howe I don¡¯t remember having a sister born to my mother?"


    Herughter was indeed beautiful, but there was an indescribable cold aloofness in her expression.


    Edward withdrew his gaze and opened the car door, "Get out."


    Daisy remained motionless, chuckling disdainfully, "Why should I? It¡¯s only right for me to sit in my husband¡¯s passenger seat."


    Edward shot her a frosty nce, said nothing more, pressed the gas pedal, and drove off.


    *


    Edward¡¯s people moved quickly. Half an hourter, they found Emily Ginger, who had taken sleeping pills, in a rental apartment.

 Chapter 27: The Ends of the Earth

    <h4>Chapter 27: Chapter 27: The Ends of the Earth</h4>


    Edward Stephens¡¯ people acted quickly; half an hourter, they located Emily Ginger, who had taken sleeping pills, in a rental apartment.


    Emily Ginger was swiftly sent to the hospital for a stomach pump.


    When Daisy Ginger arrived at the hospital in Edward Stephens¡¯ car, she discovered that Lady Stephens was already there.


    Abigail Perry¡¯s eyes were red, her voice choked as she sobbed, beingforted by Lady Stephens.


    "Edward!"


    Seeing Daisy and Edward arrive, Abigail Perry quickly ran over and grabbed Edward¡¯s hand; her eyes red, she looked at him as if clutching onto a lifeline and anxiously asked, "How is Emily now? Is she okay? If something really happens to her, I can¡¯t go on living..."


    As she spoke, she couldn¡¯t help but burst into tears again, lookingpletely broken.


    Lady Stephens watched from the side, seemingly empathetic as well, wiping tears with reddened eyes.


    Edward Stephens withdrew his hand from Abigail Perry¡¯s grasp, nced at the operating room, and said with a stern face, "I just arrived too, the specifics aren¡¯t clear yet, we have to wait for the surgery results."


    Not getting a definite answer from Edward, Abigail Perry¡¯s emotions visibly became unstable again, her tearful eyes looked toward the operating room, filled with both hope and despair.


    The intertwining of these emotions made her appear somewhat neurotic.


    Lady Stephens, with red eyes, pulled her to the side, where the two women sat together, holding hands, seeminglyforting each other.


    Daisy Ginger leaned against a wall and took out a lighter from her bag.


    Just as she was about to light a cigarette, Edward Stephens turned his head and, noticing her actions, frowned and said, "Smoking is prohibited outside the operating room hallway."


    Daisy Ginger shrugged, "It¡¯s so boring here, what should I do when I have a craving?"


    Edward Stephens looked at her indifferent expression for a while before slowly turning his gaze away, speaking with a cold and heavy voice, "You can go outside,"


    Daisy Ginger chuckled, "Smoking alone is so dull."


    "Go home."


    "Will you take me?"


    Edward Stephens finally turned around slowly, he approached Daisy Ginger. On his aristocratic, cold face, there was a shadowy chill that engulfed his particrly icy eyes.


    He said, "Daisy, your sister¡¯s life is in danger inside the operating room right now."


    His words were delivered particrly gravely, like a warning.


    "And then?" Daisy Ginger slightly raised her chin with a hint of a provocative smile, "Does it have anything to do with me?"


    Edward Stephens raised his hand, grabbing her thin shoulders and pulling her closer. After staring at her for a long while, he withdrew his gaze expressionlessly, not turning back, and walked away from her side.


    Daisy Ginger continued leaning against her spot, tossing the crimson-colored lighter up and down, her gaze fixed on the man¡¯s tall, straight back not far away.


    She held a faint smile at the corner of her lips, yet her dark pupils only contained a frozen gleam.


    She was merely a bit curious; if the one in the operating room right now were her, out of the three present, who would actually rush over to see her.


    *


    Emily Ginger¡¯s stomach pumping took more than three hours, and Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t stay for the whole process; she went downstairs to have dinner.


    After eating her fill, she returned to find Emily Ginger had alreadye out of the operating room, transferred to a ward.


    Outside the ward, Edward Stephens leaned against the wall, his tall figure sharp and upright, immersed in shadow, smoking. When he saw her return, he lifted his gaze to look at her.


    Daisy Ginger stood in ce, smiling at him, her smile unchanged.


    One appeared aloof and detached, the other, smiled like a flower, captivating and charming.


    At this moment, though only two meters apart, they seemed worlds away.

 Chapter 28: "Daisy Ginger, don’t push me too far!

    <h4>Chapter 28: Chapter 28: "Daisy Ginger, don¡¯t push me too far!</h4>


    Daisy Ginger stepped forward, standing in front of Edward Stephens, looking at the crease between his brows.


    He must be very worried, even now, his brows are not rxed.


    Edward Stephens met her gaze, and after a second, he faintly shifted his eyes away and extinguished the cigarette butt.


    He asked in a calm voice, "What are you here for?"


    The voice was so steady, it didn¡¯t even have any fluctuation.


    Daisy Ginger looked at him and couldn¡¯t help but smile again.


    The man was very tall. She was 1.68 meters; even in high heels, she was still half a head shorter than him.


    When she looked up at him, she was already losing momentum.


    Daisy Ginger twirled the long hair that hung over her chest, answering yfully, "After all, she is my sister." She imitated his tone, full of smiles, "Just came to see if she¡¯s dead yet."


    The man¡¯s eyes deepened slightly, asking her, "Are you very pleased?"


    Daisy Ginger tilted her head, "Feeling sorry?"


    "..."


    "Feeling sorry now won¡¯t do." Sheughed profoundly, "There will be plenty for you to feel sorry about in the future."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ eyes gradually filled with a storm. The young master from a prestigious family, raised amidst ttery, infort, had never encountered any defiance in his life.


    He couldn¡¯t believe there would be a woman like Daisy Ginger in this world: indifferent, cold-blooded, selfish, and so sharp-tongued.


    "What to do," he slowly bent forward, looking at her beautiful eyes, his voice low and almost eerie, "it¡¯s not even four hours since we got married, and I¡¯m already regretting it."


    Daisy Ginger gazed steadily into the man¡¯s dark eyes, her face unchanged with a smile, "Then, do you want your mother to kneel down and beg you again?"


    The man¡¯s pupils shrank fiercely for a moment, as if stung, or enraged, churning out a tumultuous gloom.


    His forefinger touched the center of her brow, his fingertip sliding down slowly to her jaw, gripping tightly.


    "Daisy Ginger, you really are disgusting."


    The voice that fell by her ear was cold and filled with disdain, Daisy Ginger¡¯s eyshes fluttered slightly, as if a snowke had fallen, her eye waves not stirring in the slightest.


    She looked at Edward Stephens, or seemed not to be looking at him, her beautiful eyes unmoving, gazing through the man¡¯s face into the distant void, her thoughts unknown.


    After a long time, Daisy Ginger finally snapped out of it, calmly pushed away the man¡¯s hand, and without another nce, went straight into the ward.


    *


    In the ward, Abigail Perry and Lady Stephens were not there, only a young nurse was by Emily Ginger¡¯s bedside, taking care of her.


    Emily Ginger had already woken up, just out of the operation room, her little face pale and bloodless,ying on the hospital bed, looking wan like a fallen leaf, pitifully.


    When she saw Daisy Ginger, her breath caught slightly, and her eyes turned red instantly.


    "Sister..."


    She called hoarsely.


    Daisy Ginger walked over, sat by her bedside, and looked down at her.


    A mocking smile hung at the corner of her lips as she taunted her, "Emily Ginger, look at your brain, not even half as smart as your mother¡¯s, only able to think of such a dull trick."


    "If I were you, I definitely wouldn¡¯t choose to take sleeping pills."


    "I would jump off the building, paralyzing myself, so Edward Stephens would have to take care of me for a lifetime."


    Outside the door, Abigail Perry suddenly rushed in, pointing at her nose and scolding, "Daisy Ginger, don¡¯t overdo it!"


    She was like a beast protecting its young, her eyes red, ring at Daisy Ginger¡¯s face, the anger in her eyes wanting to tear her apart on the spot.


    Daisy Ginger leisurely stood up from the bedside, raised her chin, and chuckled, "Auntie Perry, I¡¯mplimenting you for being smart, why are you angry? Instead of venting your anger on me, you should teach your precious daughter how to capture the heart of a married man. Isn¡¯t that your forte?"

 Chapter 29 On Poisonous Tongue, Daisy Ginger is Already Unrivaled in the World

    <h4>Chapter 29: Chapter 29 On Poisonous Tongue, Daisy Ginger is Already Unrivaled in the World</h4>


    Daisy Ginger gracefully stood up from the bedside, raised her chin, and chuckled softly, "Auntie Perry, I¡¯m praising you for your cleverness, so why are you upset? Instead of venting your anger on me, maybe you should teach your dear daughter how to win the heart of a married man. That¡¯s your specialty, isn¡¯t it?"


    "Daisy Ginger!" Abigail Perry bit down on her name with hatred, her well-maintained face briefly showing a hint of distortion.


    To her, Daisy Ginger could say whatever she wanted, but dragging her daughter into it was an entirely different matter.


    The angrier Abigail Perry got, the more beautifully Daisy Ginger smiled.


    She stood in the pale hospital room, white blouse, ck skirt, yet always charming like a bright flower, with the surrounding light and shadow bing more colorful because of her presence.


    She turned her head and nced once more at Emily Ginger, whoy on the hospital bed, tears dripping down.


    Emily Ginger was pitifully crying now; she couldn¡¯t outtalk Daisy Ginger and had just emerged from surgery, barely able to say a few words, then faced Daisy Ginger¡¯s sarcasm, almost fainted from it.


    Seeing her gaze, Abigail Perry immediately stepped in front of Daisy Ginger, as if she were some kind of monstrous threat, with even a nce from her capable of harming her precious daughter.


    Daisy Ginger scoffed disdainfully, withdrew her gaze, and casually said, "Emily Ginger, you continue; sh your wrists, jump off a building, or even into the sea, anyway, your life is worthless to me."


    "Oh, by the way, I might have forgotten to tell you, Edward and I have already registered our marriage."


    She crossed her arms, her smile bing increasingly sardonic, and although she couldn¡¯t see Emily Ginger¡¯s face, she could feel the slight tremor in the air, with Emily¡¯s hand hanging over the bedside starting to shake uncontrobly.


    "Really, I apologize for your earnest efforts. If you¡¯re performing, remember to rehearse with your mom first; otherwise, you¡¯ll act so earnestly that your mom won¡¯t keep pace, dying a few minutes and failingpletely."


    As if she wasn¡¯t unsettling enough, she continued with a light chuckle, "If your mom had called a few minutes earlier, Edward and I might not have managed to get that marriage certificate today." Throwing a flirtatious nce at Edward Stephens, she added sweetly, "Isn¡¯t that right, Edward?"


    Edward Stephens stood at the door, his face cold as iron, watching Daisy Ginger¡¯s few words casually riling up everyone into near seizures. He thought when ites to infuriating abilities, Daisy Ginger was already unbeatable in the world. There probably isn¡¯t a woman more biting than Daisy Ginger.


    Even Lady Stephens hiding behind Edward was stunned, cautiously tugging at his hand and whispering timidly, "Edward, make sure you never argue with Daisy..."


    Looks impossible to win...


    Over there, Emily Ginger was already driven to tears by Daisy Ginger, sobbing and whimpering, while Abigail Perry¡¯s heart ached to the point of nearly fainting, holding her daughter¡¯s hand as sheforted her repeatedly, while ring hatefully at Daisy Ginger.


    Edward Stephens walked inside, pulling the woman who feared chaos like the gue out, furrowing his brow as he gazed at her arrogant and proud expression, he couldn¡¯t help pinching her cheek with his fingers, asking grimly, "Can¡¯t you settle down a bit?"


    Daisy Ginger raised her brow, smilingly asked, "What, feeling sorry again? Just a few words, didn¡¯t hit her. If I really did get physical, wouldn¡¯t you be heartbroken to death?"

 Chapter 30: She Was Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 30: Chapter 30: She Was Wrong</h4>


    Edward Stephens said in a deep voice, "Daisy Ginger, I¡¯m not in the mood to argue with you."


    Daisy Ginger: "I just want to argue with you."


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    She really came here to argue with him.


    Seeing the atmosphere between the two freeze more and more, Lady Stephens weakly stepped in to smooth things over.


    She said ingratiatingly, "Daisy, aren¡¯t you hungry? Why don¡¯t you go out for dinner?"


    Daisy Ginger nced at Edward Stephens and snorted coldly, "I¡¯m already full, and I think he¡¯s probably full from anger, doesn¡¯t need dinner."


    Edward Stephens pinched her: "You really have the nerve to say that."


    Ouch!


    Daisy Ginger squinted her eyes, about to scratch him.


    From the hospital room came the faint sound of Emily Ginger¡¯s call: "Edward, Edward, sob sob, Edward..."


    Edward Stephens paused in his actions, nced at Daisy Ginger, then collected his expression, let go, and turned into the hospital room.


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips slightly, watching Edward Stephens turn away without hesitation, with a deep and unreadable expression in her eyes.


    Lady Stephens looked at her gloomy demeanor, secretly rmed, huddling to the side without daring to speak.


    Emily Gingery on the hospital bed, her breath so weak it was almost nonexistent, having just undergone major surgery,ing back from the brink of life and death, and then receiving a blow from Daisy Ginger, leaving her utterly confused.


    Seeing Edward Stephens walk in, she cried and struggled to sit up to grab his hand, the man standing a meter away, looking at her warmly and calmly, calling her name: "Emily, don¡¯t make a fuss. Listen to me, okay?"


    Listening to his voice, Emily Ginger cried even harder, unable to restrain herself, tears streaming down her face, hoarsely saying to him: "I like you, Edward, I really like you, don¡¯t leave me... I¡¯ll listen to you from now on, I¡¯ll be good, I¡¯ll never make you angry again..."


    Daisy Ginger walked in from the door, leaned against the wall, watching with her arms crossed as if she were watching a show.


    Edward Stephens nced at her eager expression, unable to understand what strange interest this woman had.


    Emily Ginger, seeing him silent, lifted her tearful eyes to look at the man standing not far away.


    He was just as handsome as she remembered; the memories of their past interactions were still vivid, Edward Stephens was cold to her, their rtionship wasn¡¯t as fiery and passionate as other couples, he seemed charming and carefree, but deep down, he still had the aloof dignity of a wealthy heir.


    Approaching him for his status, she felt guilty; Edward Stephens wasn¡¯t warm to her, she dare not cross the line; he wasn¡¯t enthusiastic, she was cautious, they maintained a restrained rtionship.


    But he would drive over on rainy days just to bring her an umbre, would send gifts and cakes on her birthday, would take her to the hospital when she was sick.


    Since moving to Banyan City and living in that big house, the men courting her outnumbered fish crossing the river, more romantic and extravagant than Edward Stephens; she didn¡¯t even think what Edward did was special.


    Until that day, the man broke up with her.


    He knew everything, saw everything, and he had been so gentle to her.


    It was her ignorance, unable to see through his heart, assuming his gentleness was ordinary.


    Only in the moment of losing himpletely did she understand his heart, how could she possibly ept it all?


    She couldn¡¯t ept it, she owed Edward Stephens, she felt dissatisfied, she truly made a mistake.

 Chapter 31: I Want to Live, Not Die with You

    <h4>Chapter 31: Chapter 31: I Want to Live, Not Die with You</h4>


    "Edward, Edward..." she called his name, and the thought of losing him made her heart involuntarily clench into a ball.


    She had never tasted heartache before; so this is what it feels like to love someone, the weight of this pain was too much for her heart to bear.


    "Please, let¡¯s not break up," she pleaded, "I can die with you, as long as we can be together, I can die with you."


    "Emily!" Abigail Perry eximed, grabbing her shoulders and screaming at her in disbelief, "What nonsense are you talking about! Dying together? You¡¯ll drive your mother crazy!"


    Emily Ginger was crying so hard she was almost out of breath, helplessly leaning against the head of the bed, her small face pale and turning purple, coughing as she cried, and it looked like an emergency room visit was imminent. Seeing her like this, Edward Stephens¡¯ face grew grim, and he coldly said, "Emily Ginger, have you not had enough of this madness?!"


    His voice was so cold that Emily¡¯s copsing mind was frozen in ce; she lifted her tear-filled eyes to see the man¡¯s icy, severe demeanor.


    She bit her lip, trembling uncontrobly, unable to understand why Edward Stephens was looking at her with such indifference.


    What did she do wrong?


    She just wanted to be with him, to live and die together...


    "I want to live, I don¡¯t want to die with you," Edward said calmly.


    Emily Ginger looked at him in disbelief, as if she could hardly believe that her wholehearted devotion would be met with such a response from Edward.


    She stared at him nkly, and only after a long while did she cautiously ask, "Edward, what did you say..."


    Edward looked at her coldly and said, "I said, I want to live, I don¡¯t want to die with you."


    Emily waspletely stunned.


    Her belief in living and dying together, all her sincere feelings, crumbled into dust in the face of Edward¡¯s words, trampled into the mud.


    He wanted to live, not to die with her, so he chose to marry Daisy Ginger, while she, for him, was willing to live and die, even thinking that as long as they could be together, dying with him wouldn¡¯t matter.


    Was she too foolish?


    The words she said earlier felt like a huge p in the face, leaving her pale face with a tinge of shameful red.


    Everything she did seemed like a ridiculous joke.


    Emily¡¯s expression momentarily turned nk, looking at Edward Stephens for a long time before slowly turning her head to Daisy Ginger, who was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed, watching with a light smile.


    She was still as dazzling as ever, in this hospital room, brazenly vibrant, looking at her bedraggled state with a victor¡¯s calm smile.


    It wasn¡¯t a look of ridicule, but one of watching a y, a cold, detached gaze, as if she wasn¡¯t even worthy of contempt.


    Edward Stephens¡¯ words had shattered her self-esteem, leaving her unable to lift her head even a bit in front of her rival.


    Emily didn¡¯t move for a long while, suddenly gagged, blood spurted from her mouth and nose, and she copsed.


    Edward¡¯s whole body trembled, instinctively stepping forward but forcibly stopping himself, lowering his eyes to look at Emily Ginger lying unconscious on the hospital bed, his deep gaze filled with heavy shadows.


    "Emily? Emily? Oh God, help," Abigail Perry started wailing, hugging Emily¡¯s body and rushing out of the hospital room, "Doctor, Doctor, save my daughter, oh God¡ª"

 Chapter 32 Can We Stop Liking Her?

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter 32 Can We Stop Liking Her?</h4>


    Outside, a flurry of footsteps could be heard, probably the nurses and doctorsing.


    After themotion, silence gradually took over.


    Edward Stephens stood still for a moment, when the crisp sound of high heels striking the floor echoed from behind him.


    The leisurely footsteps were unmistakable; he didn¡¯t even need to look back to know who it was.


    Daisy Ginger circled to his front, smirking, "Edward, your acting is quite impressive, isn¡¯t it? ying the jerk so vividly. Apuse for you."


    She pped her hands three times.


    Edward Stephens nced at her indifferent demeanor, choosing to ignore her, while reaching into his pocket for a pack of cigarettes, only to pull out the marriage certificate he had put in there earlier.


    He nced at the red booklet, his mood inexplicably worsening. As he tried to stuff it back, Daisy snatched it away.


    A frown creased the man¡¯s forehead as he watched Daisy take his marriage certificate and nonchntly ce it into her own bag.


    "To prevent you from doing anything unscrupulous to it, as your wife, I have the right to personally keep it safe for you."


    She said it calmly, with an earnest expression.


    "If you mess with it, I won¡¯t forgive you."


    Edward Stephens warned her.


    With a teasing smile, Daisy nced at him and asked with great interest, "What counts as messing with it? Showing it to Emily Ginger?"


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze, tantly ignoring her, and headed out of the ward.


    Lady Stephens was gone too, probably apanying Abigail Perry to the operating room, as Edward walked straight out of the hospital.


    Daisyzily followed behind, persistent in her chatter.


    "Edward, are you really leaving just like that? Not going to check on the operating room?"


    "If she doesn¡¯t see you when shees out, how pitiful! Edward, such a cruel heart you have. Truly heartbreaking to hear, bringing tears to the eyes of those who witness it."


    "Edward, you¡¯re walking too fast, I can¡¯t keep up."


    She insisted boldly.


    Edward, feeling vexed, ignored herpletely. He exited the hospital and went straight to the parking lot, opening the car door and getting in.


    The next second, he saw Daisy quickly open the passenger side and get in with him.


    Edward Stephens: "Get out."


    Daisy crossed her arms and looked straight ahead, "No."


    Edward turned his head to nce at her. His face remained calm, but in his dark eyes, a storm was already brewing.


    He said, "Daisy, don¡¯t think I won¡¯t hit a woman."


    Daisy snorted, lifting her head, "Go ahead."


    Edward took his gaze away, leaned back into the leather seat, and fell silent.


    Daisy tilted her head and, in the dim light of the parking lot, observed his face.


    The man¡¯s thin lips were pressed together, his jawline slightly taut, clearly showing he was controlling his emotions.


    Curious, she leaned forward, gazing into his beautiful, obsidian-like deep ck eyes.


    She asked, "Does it really hurt that much?"


    "..."


    "Do you really love her that much?"


    "..." Edward Stephens lifted his gaze, meeting Daisy¡¯s eyes.


    At that moment, Daisy¡¯s expression was genuinely puzzled, as if his current sadness was somethingpletely iprehensible to her.


    Daisy watched him for a while, then sighed softly, lowering her eyes in silence, and reached out to embrace him.


    Edward¡¯s brow furrowed as he instinctively moved to push her away, only to hear her softly say, "Edward, let¡¯s stop loving her, shall we..."


    Her voice was so gentle, it seemed a little heartbroken.

 Chapter 33: I Don’t Like You

    <h4>Chapter 33: Chapter 33: I Don¡¯t Like You</h4>


    Edward Stephens pinched her slender nape and lifted her out of his embrace. He frowned, looking at Daisy Ginger¡¯s face.


    The sky had darkened, and the shadows in the parking lot were deep and murky.


    Daisy¡¯s hair, neatly arranged during the day, had a few strands rebelliously fallen by her cheeks at night, softening her sharp features with a touch of gentle femininity.


    Even though the light was dim, Edward could still see her eyes clearly.


    There was no hint of sadness.


    He let out a derisiveugh and mockingly asked, "You like her?"


    Daisy pouted, looking a bit unhappy, "What else then?"


    Edward: "Wishful thinking."


    Daisy snorted, sat back in the passenger seat, turned her head to look out the window, and muttered quietly, "Idiot."


    Her voice was barely audible, but Edward still heard it.


    So much had happened today; he wasn¡¯t in a good mood and had no desire to engage in a pointless argument with her.


    Seeing that she wasn¡¯t getting out of the car, he couldn¡¯t be bothered with her anymore and drove out of the parking lot.


    Daisy sat alone in the passenger seat, seemingly lost in thought for a moment, then she came back to life.


    She asked him, "After we get married, do you n to live at my ce, or should I live at yours?"


    Edward nced sidelong at her, without responding.


    Daisy hugged her legs, seriously considering, "I think living at my ce, there¡¯s no guarantee you and Emily won¡¯t do something behind my back, wouldn¡¯t I be miserable with a green hat? But living at your ce is too far from my office, and you¡¯re sozy, you definitely wouldn¡¯t be willing to get up early every day to take me to work..."


    Edward stopped the car, unable to resist pinching her cheek.


    This woman, did she think he was a corpse? What nonsense was she spouting?!


    Daisy: "I have an apartment downtown, how about we move out and live there?"


    Edward: "No."


    Daisy pouted again, unhappy, "Why not?"


    Living in the city center, it¡¯s close to the office, and she could conveniently catch any cheating.


    Edward: "I¡¯ll live in my own home."


    "Then I¡¯ll live at your ce too."


    Edward had never seen someone so shameless.


    He withdrew his gaze, nced at her impatiently, took out a cigarette, opened the car window, faced outside and smoked for a while. Once calmed, he coldly reminded, "Daisy, don¡¯t act as though we¡¯re genuinely in love. You know the tricks you¡¯ve yed."


    Daisy calmly replied, "So what?"


    Edward: "I don¡¯t like you."


    "..."


    "Not at all." He turned to face her, his eyes darker than the night, only a spark at his fingertips lighting up his deep-set eyes like a cold, burning me. He said, "I never will. Don¡¯t bother trying to win me over; I find it disgusting."


    Daisy sat in the passenger seat, looked at him for a while, then simply said, "Okay. I understand."


    The night breeze blew in, lifting the wisps of hair from her forehead. She sat there, her gaze clear as she looked at him, then turned her head, opened the car door, and stepped out by herself with her bag.


    Edward sat in the car, smoking for a while, recalling the look Daisy had given him earlier. His brow furrowed tighter as he irritably stubbed out the cigarette in the ashtray, "Damn."


    He drove after her.


    It waste at night; letting Daisy walk alone in the dark, he wasn¡¯t despicable enough to do that.

 Chapter 34 Daisy Ginger: "Get lost. Don’t bother me.

    <h4>Chapter 34: Chapter 34 Daisy Ginger: "Get lost. Don¡¯t bother me.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger must have taken some roundabout path, Edward Stephens drove for a while and still didn¡¯t see her.


    The moon was bright and the stars sparse, the night dark and the wind high. The hospital wasn¡¯t located in a bustling city center; rather, it was somewhat remote. As he drove along this road, apart from his car, there were only a few drunks hugging trash cans and vomiting on the sidewalk. Edward drove for a bit, then returned to his original ce, and called Daisy.


    The call didn¡¯t go through.


    It was rejected.


    This damned woman.


    He cursed inwardly, having no choice but to bear with it and call her again.


    As usual, Daisy rejected the call.


    She actually had the nerve to throw a tantrum at him!


    Edward rolled his eyes so hard they almost turned upward, seriously wondering how thick her skin was.


    Where¡¯s her face?


    Finally, on the next call, she picked up. Edward said, "Where are you now? Give me an address so I can..."


    Daisy: "Get lost. Stop bothering me."


    She hung up again.


    Edward: "..."


    He couldn¡¯t help but curse as heughed in anger.


    For it to be her telling him to get lost, she really had some nerve.


    Edward sat in the car, smoked angrily for a while, and only when the throbbing vein in his temple calmed down did he drive off to look for her again.


    Outside the hospital, it¡¯s not easy to get a taxi on this road; Edward was sure Daisy was still on this path. With those high heels of hers, she couldn¡¯t have walked far.


    After driving for about ten minutes, sure enough, he found Daisy sitting on a bench resting under the shade of a ne tree.


    He had driven past here earlier, but it was too dark and with the shadows of the trees, he hadn¡¯t seen anyone at all. Now, seeing Daisy sitting on the bench watching him, realizing she had just been sitting there coldly watching him search, he almost wanted to grab her and give her a good shake.


    Parking the car by the roadside, the man got out and walked over to her, extending a hand, "Get up. I¡¯ll take you home."


    Daisy sat expressionlessly, not even ncing at his hand, "Get lost. I don¡¯t need you to care."


    Edward gritted his back teeth. He nced side to side, and trulyughed out of anger, "You think I care about you? I¡¯ll take you to the city center, and once there, you can figure out how to get back yourself, I can¡¯t be bothered."


    Daisy threw the high heel she was holding at him, hitting Edward¡¯s hand, "Fuck off."


    Still cursing.


    Edward, who was used to dealing with knowledgeable, polite, and elegant socialites, was encountering someone like Daisy for the first time, who was unreasonable and reckless. Whoever married her would be unlucky.


    He bent down, picked up the broken-heeled shoe from the ground, and nced at her foot that was only wearing one shoe, "With those shoes, you¡¯ll never make it back by sunrise."


    Daisy maintained a cold expression, "None of your concern."


    "Halfway there, you¡¯ll be dragged into the woods by those drunks, believe it or not?"


    "..."


    He snickered, walked over, pinched her chin, and looked at her beautiful yet cold face, threatening, "At that moment who cares if you¡¯re the CEO of Ginger Group? Or are you hoping for something like that to happen?¡ªHiss," he sucked in a breath as Daisy viciously bit his fingertip, rolling his eyes, he used the other hand to scoop up the fur-ruffled cat-like woman off the bench.

 Chapter 35: Edward Stephens, what you once promised me has finally come true.

    <h4>Chapter 35: Chapter 35: Edward Stephens, what you once promised me has finallye true.</h4>


    Emily Ginger was shoved into the passenger seat, buckled up with a seatbelt. Edward Stephens got into the car and drove toward the Ginger Residence.


    The woman in the passenger seat had a cold, pretty face, her expression frosty enough to freeze.


    Edward pretended not to notice, acting as if he saw nothing.


    He had never coaxed anyone before, and he felt there was no need to.


    His rtionship with Emily Ginger wasn¡¯t one that involved coaxing; driving her back was simply what a normal man should do.


    If anything really happened to Emily Ginger on this road, he doubted he could truly pretend it had nothing to do with him.


    The drive was quiet, and he found it somewhat amusing that when she deliberately annoyed him, she was terribly noisy, yet when she was angry, she turned quiet without a word.


    He even maliciously wondered if he should use this to shut her up in the future...


    Emily Ginger leaned on her hand, looking out the window at the dappled shadows of trees passing by like mist over her face. She had a cool demeanor and didn¡¯t say a word.


    The drive was smooth, and an hourter, the car stopped at the Ginger Residence¡¯s gates.


    Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger were not at home. In the vast Ginger mansion, only a night light was on in the hall. At this moment, standing at the door, it loomed like a dormant beast, and Emily stood at its mouth as if she were about to be swallowed whole.


    Actually, Emily¡¯spany was a bit far from the old mansion. She had an apartment in the city center but insisted oning back here every night to stay. Who knows what she was thinking?


    Edward Stephens rolled down the car window, turned his head to look at the woman standing at the door. She stood there barefoot, slightly pursing her lips, looking still a bit unhappy, puffing her cheeks.


    Edward warned, "Don¡¯t call me for nothing."


    Emily Ginger chuckled coolly, "OK. Let¡¯s see who calls who then."


    Edward snorted, toozy to argue. After saying his piece, he rolled up the window and turned the car around.


    Just about to drive off, there was a loud "bang" on the windshield. Something had been hurled at it; Edward focused and saw that it was a high heel.


    It was the high heel that Emily was holding.


    He turned his head and saw Emily carrying her bag, walking into the house without looking back.


    Today, he had been attacked twice by her high heels.


    Looking at the ck high heel scattered on the hood, Edward couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes, cursing, "...Crazy woman."


    Could this woman stop throwing whatever she had at hand?


    *


    The servants in the mansion were all asleep.


    The servant watching the night on the sofa woke up as she entered, groggy, sat up rubbing her eyes, and called out, "Miss, you¡¯re back. Would you like something to eat?"


    "Go back to your room and sleep," Emily advised. "You don¡¯t have to wait up for anyone."


    The servant hesitated, instinctively wanting to ask about Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger, but looking at Emily¡¯s silhouette and recalling their rtionship, she didn¡¯t dare ask more.


    Emily Ginger, barefoot, went straight upstairs.


    Growing up in this familiar house, it now exuded an unusually unfamiliar aura at night.


    She clearly remembered sitting in the dining room with Edward Stephens, eating the pudding Alice Lesser made for them, while the hallway still echoed with theughter of them running hand in hand.


    How did everyone disappear in the blink of an eye?


    She rarely felt vulnerable, perhaps from the exhaustion of a whole day¡¯s running around.


    Emily entered the bedroom, locked the door tightly. Only in this familiar room did she find a moment¡¯s respite.


    She sat on the bed in a daze for a while, then took out two wedding certificates from her bag, cing them on the bedsheet, and looked down at them.


    Edward Stephens, you once promised me, and finally, it hase true.

 Chapter 36: "I wasn’t here for 1 month, did you miss me?

    <h4>Chapter 36: Chapter 36: "I wasn¡¯t here for 1 month, did you miss me?</h4>


    Arguing on the wedding day, that¡¯s really something.


    After marrying Daisy, Edward Stephenspletely returned to his bachelor lifestyle.


    He lost his girlfriend and fianc¨¦e, but gained a nominal wife, who was quite temperamental and ignored him for a whole month.


    Lady Stephens seemed to have noticed something, cautiously asked him if he had argued with Daisy, urging him to go and appease her.


    Edward thought to himself, he couldn¡¯t be bothered to appease her. It¡¯d be great if Daisy didn¡¯t bother him for the rest of his life.


    That¡¯s what he thought, but reality didn¡¯t align. That evening, after drinking with some buddies, there was a surprise appearance of Daisy on the sofa.


    The ce where only he could lie in that whole household, Daisyy there quitefortably, and when she saw hime in, she mocked him by resting her face on her hand: "Oh, where¡¯d you sneak off to this time?"


    Still with that enchantingly beautiful face, more alluring than a vixen, still with that familiar tone, Edward thought, she never goes away.


    Lady Stephens came downstairs beaming, her facepletely darkened with some strange substance, not even ncing at him, she cupped her face and asked Daisy: "Daisy, is this volcanic mud really as good as you said? I feel it¡¯s really moisturizing."


    "It¡¯s a specialty from Uniel. I felt it worked quite well," Daisy replied with a smile, "Are the fifteen minutes almost over? Auntie, go wash it off and let¡¯s eat."


    Lady Stephens nodded, then happily went upstairs to wash her face.


    Edward frowned: "What kind of weird stuff did you put on my mom¡¯s face?" Smearing volcanic mud on the face, that¡¯s nuts!


    Daisy nced at him, her eyes slightly contemptuous, as if he had said something incredibly idiotic.


    "You spent the past month in Uniel?"


    "What else?" Daisy leisurely sat up, lit a cigarette, and nced at him, "If I were in Banyan City, you¡¯d be off partying with your drinking pals!"


    Edward cursed inwardly, why couldn¡¯t she be stuck there forever?


    Come back just to spew her poison, she¡¯s like she¡¯s eaten dynamite.


    Edward snorted, ignoring her, and went straight towards the dining room.


    Daisy followed behind him: "Angry? I brought you a gift from my business trip. Want to see it?"


    Edward: "Scram."


    Daisy was delighted just seeing him: "I won¡¯t scram. I¡¯m staying at your ce tonight."


    "Whatever." As long as she doesn¡¯t bother him.


    During dinner, Lady Stephens brought up the topic of Edward¡¯s treatment.


    The two of them tallied up that it¡¯s been a month since they got the marriage certificate, though their rtionship is nominal, legally, they are indeed married.


    The condition Daisy had set had been fulfilled by Edward, now it was her turn to fulfill her promise.


    When discussing this topic, Edward¡¯s face was expressionless, as if the life she was saving wasn¡¯t his.


    Daisy smiled as always: "My workload isn¡¯t heavy now, I can go to the hospital anytime."


    Upon hearing this, Lady Stephens was visibly pleased, her eyes turned red with joy, she put down her chopsticks and said to Edward: "Edward, I¡¯ll go give your dad a call. He¡¯ll surely be happy too."


    Edward¡¯s expression remained indifferent, "Oh."


    Once Lady Stephens left, only Daisy and Edward were left at the dining table.


    While Lady Stephens was present, Daisy ate just fine, but once she left, Daisy started to cause trouble.


    After being kicked three times, Edward finally put down his chopsticks, mped Daisy¡¯s ankle, threateningly held it in his palm: "Don¡¯t want your foot? What if it breaks?"


    Daisy pouted: "I¡¯ve been gone for a month, did you miss me?"


    "No."


    "Then I¡¯m sleeping with you tonight."


    Edward: "...."


    What¡¯s the corrtion between these two sentences?

 Chapter 37: "Edward Stephens, I am now your lawful wife.

    <h4>Chapter 37: Chapter 37: "Edward Stephens, I am now yourwful wife.</h4>


    Edward Stephens released her ankle and warned her expressionlessly, "Daisy Ginger, I don¡¯t just sleep with anyone."


    Daisy Ginger replied earnestly, "Coincidentally, neither do I."


    Edward: "..." This woman probably doesn¡¯t even know how to spell "shame."


    Seeing that he had nothing to say, Daisy Ginger propped her chin up and nced at him with a bit of a smug expression.


    Edward withdrew his gaze coldly, deciding to ignore her.


    The more attention he gives her, the more she gets carried away.


    Lady Stephens called back with red eyes, feeling that something must have happened at the dinner table while she was away. However, seeing Daisy Ginger smiling happily, she felt relieved.


    As long as she¡¯s happy, it¡¯s all good.


    *


    After returning from the United States, Lady Stephens didn¡¯t stay in their old house.


    The new vi was brand new, a detached vi in the best area of Banyan City, priceless in the market.


    But since it was just her and Edward Stephens living there, it seemed a bit too spacious.


    After dinner, Edward went straight back to the bedroom, while Daisy Ginger chatted with Lady Stephens for a while before heading to the guest room prepared for her by the servants.


    Edward showered and went to bed, but hadn¡¯t slept long when he heard the sound of the door opening from outside.


    The sight of her nearly made himugh out loud in anger: d in pajamas, holding a pillow at the door, Edward turned on the light, frowning, and asked, "Daisy Ginger, what on earth are you ying at again?"


    Daisy Ginger was wearing a wine-red camisole nightgown, possibly made by the seamstress Lady Stephens hired for her. The material was thin, soft, and hugged her curves intimately. Her hair, let downpletely, looked as voluminous as seaweed, and she stood confidently at his door with her chin lifted, loudly dering, "Edward Stephens, I¡¯m sleeping with you tonight!"


    This deration was so loud, it probably echoed throughout the entire vi.


    "..." Edward¡¯s face instantly darkened; he felt like strangling this troublemaker.


    She showed no fear of his ckened face and, dragging her pillow, climbed onto his bed. The nightgown was thin, with a wide neckline¡ªwhen she leaned over, half of her chest was exposed.


    Damn!


    Edward quickly turned his face away, unable to resist cursing internally; what was his mother thinking, making her such a loose-fitting dress?!


    Daisy Ginger took the opportunity to snuggle into his bed, mocking, "Edward Stephens, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re shy?"


    Edward was slightly irritable; his face was cold as he threw off the nket, got out of bed, and grabbed the shirt lying on the sofa to drape over himself.


    Daisy Ginger watched his back; she pursed her lips, unhappily calling out, "Edward Stephens!"


    The man turned away from her, fastening his shirt buttons, both his back and tone cold: "I already said, I don¡¯t just sleep with anyone."


    Daisy Ginger sat on the bed, "Edward Stephens, I¡¯m your legally married wife now."


    "You can sue me in court for marital neglect; I¡¯d be quite willing to cooperate with you for a divorce."


    Daisy Ginger: "In your dreams."


    The man turned around and looked at her face, reached out and pinched her chin maliciously, saying, "Then be prepared to be a living widow. It¡¯s up to you."


    "If you don¡¯t touch me, don¡¯t even think about touching other women." Daisy Ginger looked him directly in the eyes, "Edward Stephens, if you dare cheat on me, you better be mentally prepared."


    When she said this, her tone and expression were very calm, but the hidden meaning within was extremely grim.


    Is there anything this woman wouldn¡¯t dare to do? Even shamelessly stealing her sister¡¯s man seemed justifiable to her.

 Chapter 38: Edward Stephens Won’t Be Sleeping Tonight!

    <h4>Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Edward Stephens Won¡¯t Be Sleeping Tonight!</h4>


    Edward Stephens looked at her face, thought of what she had done, and felt a mix of disgust and irony.


    For the first time in his life, someone trampled on his dignity, on his self-esteem, brazenly, and outrageously.


    His submission, to him, was a humiliation.


    "I don¡¯t care who you slept with," he chuckled softly, looking at Daisy Ginger¡¯s face, leaning in close, his voice gentle as if whispering sweet nothings, "¡ªDaisy, you¡¯d better run away with some man."


    Their eyes met, and finally, there was a trace of an expression she couldn¡¯t hide in her eyes, the pitch-ck pupils looking at his face, stubbornly saying, "I won¡¯t."


    "I said I don¡¯t care." Edward stated coldly, withdrawing his hand, turning and walking away.


    His tall, slender figure, with his back to Daisy Ginger, the air that separated them, like a natural wall, divided their past from the present.


    Daisy Ginger pressed her lips tightly together, her face under the light showing a certain paleness, only those dark eyes shining with a light that was darker than the night.


    "Edward Stephens, you will regret it." She said, word by word, behind him.


    Edward hesitated for a moment, then left without looking back.


    A woman like Daisy Ginger, how could he possibly regret?


    *


    Without Edward Stephens, this room filled with his aura, had lost its meaning for Daisy Ginger.


    She sat on the bed for a while, grew more and more angry, and from Edward¡¯s bedside table, she pulled out a pack of cigarettes, lit one, took a harsh drag, choked, and couldn¡¯t help but cough for a long time on the bed.


    The cigarettes Edward smoked were not her brand, the taste was very unfamiliar, thick with tobo, much like his now sharp and distinct personal aura.


    Back then... she and Edward shared the same brand.


    Even the only shared preference had changed.


    Daisy Ginger felt a bit ufortable, stubbornly finished the whole cigarette despite the difort, and in the end, her throat couldn¡¯t take it anymore, forcing her to admit defeat.


    Shey on the man¡¯s bed in a daze for a while, her mind a mess.


    In one moment, it was back to when they were kids sitting by the sea, Edward holding her hand, fireworks blooming with her.


    She watched the fireworks, he watched her.


    One show in the sky, another on the ground.


    A scene of fireworks bloomed in the sky, another in the deep affection of a young man¡¯s eyes.


    In another moment, it was Edward gripping her chin, coldly telling her, "Daisy Ginger, you¡¯d better run away with some man."


    His cold eyes reflected her shocked expression, mercilessly piercing her heart with a dagger made of words.


    Heartless and hopeless.


    He used to do everything he could to make her happy, but now all he did was make her sad.


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, got out of bed barefoot, carrying the pillow she had just hugged, with a gloomy expression she opened the door and went out.


    If he wouldn¡¯t let her be happy, she wouldn¡¯t let him have his way.


    Edward Stephens could forget about sleeping tonight!


    *


    When Edward Stephens woke up, he found someone nestled in his arms.


    He was rather astonished.


    How did Daisy Ginger get in?


    Or rather, when did she get in?


    She was still wearing the nightgown he saw her inst night, her long eyshes drooping, forming dense arches like little fans, the corners of her eyes turning down, her lips slightly pouting, with an adorable little face full of displeasure.


    That expression looked a bit aggrieved.


    Perhaps awakened by him, the person lying in his arms slowly opened her eyes, and as soon as she saw him, she cursed, "Edward Stephens, you¡¯re sick."

 Chapter 39: "Daisy Ginger, are you a cat?

    <h4>Chapter 39: Chapter 39: "Daisy Ginger, are you a cat?</h4>


    Edward Stephens furrowed his brow and looked at her without speaking.


    Daisy Ginger pushed him away, sat up from his embrace, and rubbed her stiff waist, looking even angrier than him.


    "Why are you in my bed?" the man slowly asked.


    Daisy Ginger: "Of course, you pulled me up here."


    The man let out a low sneer, his expression somewhat mocking.


    "Don¡¯t believe it?" She tilted her head and extended her slender wrist towards him, "Look at what you¡¯ve done!"


    Edward Stephens nced down; what he saw was a ring of bruises on Daisy Ginger¡¯s white wrist. He frowned, "How did that happen?"


    Daisy Ginger confidently replied, "Of course, you attacked me. I just came over to check on youst night, and you grabbed me, hitting and pinching me. Edward Stephens, you¡¯re a brute!"


    Edward sat on the bed, looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s face for a while, then lowered his head and pinched the bridge of his nose with his fingers.


    On the floor was a pillow, and on the bed was Daisy Ginger.


    Having known Daisy Ginger for so long, he could roughly understand why this woman would appear in his room.


    ¡ªShe was probably upset from being scolded by himst night. Unwilling to ept it, she sneaked into his room with a hug pillow to hit him, but in the end, it was the sleeping him that "hit" her.


    He had undergone military training in the United States, which specifically included dealing with being attacked while sleeping. Even in sleep, if an intruder came in, he could wake up quickly to resist.


    As for why he didn¡¯t wake up when Daisy Ginger came inst night, it might be because his subconscious found her harmless and not worth the rm.


    Trying to pull a fast one but ending up losing out, it¡¯s no wonder she had such a sour face in his arms early in the morning.


    The woman was so arrogant, she probably didn¡¯t get knocked down often. Though he was asleep, he could imagine how frustrating it must have been for Daisy Ginger being used as a pillow by him all night.


    With her strength, if it were a real fight, she would stand no chance.


    Edward Stephens sat up from the bed, leaned against the headboard, looked at Daisy Ginger, and finally couldn¡¯t help but mutter, "Idiot."


    Daisy Ginger squinted her eyes and stared at him menacingly for a moment, then suddenly leaped over and reached out to scratch his face.


    She wouldn¡¯t be satisfied until she taught him a lesson!


    Edward was caught off guard and was hit squarely by her lunge. He grabbed her hand,ughing in anger, "Daisy Ginger, are you a cat?"


    Daisy Ginger said resentfully, "Who told you to bully me!"


    This woman was utterly unreasonable.


    Edward nodded,ughing in exasperation, "So it¡¯s fine for you to bully me, huh?"


    Daisy Ginger: "I didn¡¯t bully you at all."


    Edward nced down at her, wondering how thick-skinned she must be to shamelessly and confidently say something like that.


    She had an expression of sheer entitlement.


    He couldn¡¯t help but pinch her cheek.


    Daisy Ginger bit his hand.


    Edward felt like he was teasing a cat and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    He patted her waist and said in a deep voice, "Get off."


    Daisy Ginger straddled his waist proudly, "Nope."


    She even purposely wriggled about.


    Edward¡¯s expression twisted for a moment.


    Daisy Ginger noticed something and widened her eyes instantly, "Edward Stephens, you..."


    Edward took a slow, deep breath, grabbed her waist, and moved her off him, nced at her, and calmly said, "It¡¯s a normal physiological reaction."


    Daisy Ginger blinked repeatedly, thinking who knows what crazy thoughts. Edward got annoyed just looking at her smug face, so he tossed the nket over her head, got out of bed directly.


    Behind him, Daisy Ginger¡¯s bright voice called out, "Edward Stephens, don¡¯t be shy now. I¡¯m not going tough at you."


    Edward rolled his eyes dramatically.


    One day, he swore, this woman would drive him insane.

 Chapter 40: "Kiss you once, why are you shy?

    <h4>Chapter 40: Chapter 40: "Kiss you once, why are you shy?</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens finished his cold shower and Daisy Ginger had already changed into the dress the servant sent in.


    She was facing away from him and called out when she heard him, "Edward Stephens,e over here."


    Edward was toweling off his hair, pretending he didn¡¯t hear her.


    "Edward Stephens, Edward Stephens, Edward Stephens."


    Chattering away, she practically drove him crazy.


    He had never met a woman as noisy as Daisy Ginger.


    Edward walked over impatiently, "What?"


    Daisy Ginger said, "My hair is tangled in the zipper, help me untangle it."


    Edward followed her words, letting his gaze fall on her back. The morning sunlight shone brightly in, and Daisy¡¯s skin, naturally fair, appeared to be glowing as she stood with her back to him.


    His Adam¡¯s apple moved slightly, feeling the heat he had just quelled suddenly rush back.


    Damn.


    He cursed softly in his heart, turned his gaze away, and reached out to untangle the few strands of hair caught in the zipper, then zipped it up for her. After finishing, hemented, "Clumsy."


    Daisy wasn¡¯t happy, pouting as she showed him her bruised wrist, "Edward Stephens, look at what you¡¯ve done!"


    She was finding a reason to confront him.


    So delicate, bruised easily, useless.


    Edward nced at her, picked up the pillow from the floor and ced it on the sofa, then put his hands in his trouser pockets and turned to walk towards the door.


    The servants cleaning the hallway were surprised to see the two of theming out of the same room, then simultaneously showed a knowing expression, pretentiously turning their gaze away, as if saying, "We understand everything, you don¡¯t need to say a word."


    Edward: Irritated.


    The breakfast was ready in the downstairs dining room, with the coffee and sandwiches Daisy liked. Lady Stephens might not be up yet, and therge dining room was clean and bright, with the servants having retreated, not disturbing them while they eat breakfast, leaving just the two of them.


    As soon as Edward sat down, Daisy came over and took a seat beside him.


    He ignored her, taking a sip of soy milk.


    Lady Stephens had been obsessed with Chinese breakfasttely, so the meals had been Chinese-style: soy milk, fried dough sticks, pan-fried dumplings, soup dumplings. His protests were futile, but when Daisy came around, she was immediately given coffee.


    It really made one wonder who her real child was.


    Daisy quickly finished eating and rested her chin on her hand as she gazed at Edward for a while, extending her hand to him, "Edward Stephens, massage this for me."


    Edward put down the soy milk cup, nced at her.


    Daisy hadn¡¯t put on makeup, her hair hung loosely, her small face clean and seemingly youthful.


    Carrying a bit of innocent naivety.


    She could easily fool those unfamiliar with her.


    Edward gracefully lifted his hand, giving a perfunctory rub on her wrist.


    "Done." He motioned for her to retract her hand.


    Daisy looked at him, her beautiful eyesrge and bright, taking advantage of the situation, "Edward Stephens, rub it a bit more."


    Edward turned his head to look at her a few times, feeling she was like some restless little animal, raising his hand to flick her forehead lightly, "Be good."


    He just wanted to enjoy his breakfast.


    Daisy rested her chin on her hand, blinking as she stared at Edward for a while, then suddenly leaned forward and kissed him on the lips.


    Edward was drinking soy milk, and Daisy¡¯s sudden move nearly made him spill the cup. He coughed lightly, carefully cing the cup down before grabbing Daisy by the nape to pull her away from in front of him, darkly calling her name, "Daisy Ginger!"


    Daisy looked innocent, "I just kissed you, why are you embarrassed?"


    "..." Did he look embarrassed?!

 Chapter 41 Daisy, you continue

    <h4>Chapter 41: Chapter 41 Daisy, you continue</h4><h4></h4>


    "Ahem."


    A light cough came from the doorway.


    Edward Stephens was ready to reprimand Daisy Ginger with a stern expression, but when he turned his head, he saw his mother standing at the door. Her face was smeared with some unknown product Daisy had brought from who knows where, making her face dark and pitch-ck. Yet her eyes were brightly fixed on the two of them, filled with a voracious appetite for gossip.


    She covered her mouth, nced at Daisy, and then at him. Sheughed and backed away, saying, "Daisy, carry on, Auntie¡¯s going upstairs to apply another face mask, carry on, carry on."


    "Mom!" Edward warned her, and Lady Stephens turned her head, squinting at him with her featureless face. She went upstairs in high spirits.


    "..."


    Edward, with a darkened face, nced at Daisy. Maybe realizing she had really angered him, she now sat properly in the chair, propping her face and looking out the window, seemingly calm, pretending to sip coffee.


    Her demeanor was quite graceful and serene, but if her eyes didn¡¯t sneak peeks at him from time to time, she might have been more convincing.


    Edward had received Western education and didn¡¯t like chatting while eating. It was only after finishing his meal, putting down his chopsticks, he coldly said to Daisy, "Don¡¯t move around while I¡¯m eating."


    Daisy set down her coffee, nced at him, and stretched the sound "Oh," asking, "Then when can I move around with you?"


    "..." Edward replied, "Never."


    Daisy let out a giggle, leaned over to his lips, and stole a quick kiss, then stood up from the chair. The hem of her dress fluttered, her vibrant eyes and brows shining brightly in the sunlight. She slightly lifted her chin and proudly responded, "I think, anytime is fine."


    *


    Lady Stephens acted swiftly. She had promised to donate bone marrow to Edwardst night, and by morning, she had already contacted Edward¡¯s attending physician.


    After breakfast, the hospital called, asking Edward toe for another physical examination.


    If the examination showed no issues, the first surgery would be scheduled for the tenth of this month, which is this weekend.


    Daisy originally intended to apany Edward to the hospital, but Lady Stephens stopped her, inviting her to have breakfast together.


    Daisy was not foolish; on the contrary, she was very smart. With Lady Stephens saying this, she nodded, saw Edward off, and then went to the dining room to see Lady Stephens sitting at the main table, her face gentle and kind. She softly called her, "Auntie."


    Lady Stephens smiled and said, "Shouldn¡¯t you be calling me Mom?"


    Daisy blinked without answering.


    Lady Stephens¡¯s smile gradually faded, she lowered her eyes, looked at the blue porcin cup in her hand, sighed softly, and asked, "Daisy, do you hate Auntie?"


    Daisy shook her head, "No right to."


    Lady Stephens looked at her, moved her lips, and finally brought up the events from eight years ago.


    "Daisy, I still remember what happened back then very clearly."


    Daisy¡¯s hands rested on the table, her fingertips lightly trembling at this.


    Lady Stephens said, "Auntie never disliked Daisy because of that incident and hopes Daisy won¡¯t hate Auntie because of Edward¡¯s matter either..."


    "Auntie is just... a powerless mother who hopes her child can be happy all their life."

 Chapter 42 In this world, everyone knows that Edward Stephens loves Daisy Ginger.

    <h4>Chapter 42: Chapter 42 In this world, everyone knows that Edward Stephens loves Daisy Ginger.</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy lowered her head and looked at her fingertips, calmly replying, "I know."


    Three months after returning from the United States with Edward Stephens, she received news that upon returning from a business trip, Edward and Emily Ginger had gotten close enough to talk about marriage.


    When she learned about this, she went straight to Lady Stephens.


    Lady Stephens then told her that after Edward moved from Banyan City to the United States, hepletely lost his memory and forgot everything that happened in Banyan City.


    He stayed in the hospital for several years, slowly relearning all the life skills he had forgotten and reacquainting himself with his family.


    Recovery took a long time, and the doctor advised against using past events to upset him, so he hadn¡¯t contacted her for all those eight years.


    Daisy couldn¡¯t even remember how she managed to return home after leaving Lady Stephens that day. At first, she felt heartache, heartache for Edward¡¯s suffering all these years out of her sight.


    Then came the confusion.


    Had Edward forgotten her?


    And herself?


    What should she do?


    Having nowhere to go, she didn¡¯t return home that night, instead sitting by the seaside all night, smoking an entire pack of cigarettes, until Ethan Pond came on his modified motorcycle to take her home.


    She took some time to pull herself together before trying to reach out to Edward again.


    The more she engaged with him, the more she noticed how much Edward had changed over the past eight years. The once gentle and jade-like youth was gone; the Edward who returned was cold and harsh, and they argued every time they met, even over trivial things.


    Yet despite this, she still took delight in it.


    Just being able to see him, just being able to say a word to him made her happy.


    People who have never lost something would never understand the joy of regaining it. Over these eight years, countless people who knew Edward told her he might have already died. Otherwise, how could he, who loved her so much, note back for eight years?


    Even if it was just for a day, he wouldn¡¯t have abandoned his beloved Daisy.


    Everyone in the world knew Edward loved Daisy.


    Till death.


    Eight years had passed, he finally fulfilled his promise, he came back from the United States safe and sound, she knew it would be better in the future, that no one could separate them again.


    Daisy spaced out for a moment, then said to Lady Stephens, "Aunt, I¡¯ve never med you. You¡¯ve already... been very good to me."


    If it weren¡¯t for her, Edward wouldn¡¯t have lost his memory. Lady Stephens treated her as before, without venting her anger on her for that incident, which was already magnanimous. As a mother who loves her child, she merely hoped her child could be happy.


    If she resented Lady Stephens for her partiality, that would indeed be heartless.


    Lady Stephens¡¯s eyes were red. She was a woman who cried easily, easily moved. Upon hearing Daisy¡¯s words, she couldn¡¯t help but secretly wipe her tears.


    Reaching out to grab Daisy¡¯s hand, Lady Stephens tearfully said, "Daisy, you must get along well with Edward from now on. You are Edward¡¯s lifesaver, and Aunt will never forget your great kindness."


    Daisy burst outughing, "Aunt, you¡¯re exaggerating."


    "Exaggerating what?" Lady Stephens sniffed, sobbing, "If saving Edward means I have to kneel and bow my head to him, I would. You saved him, making you Aunt¡¯s lifesaver too. If anything happened to Edward, Aunt would also..."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t stand her tears, changed the subject, "Aunt, please eat, I¡¯ll be going to the hospital to see Edwardter."


    Lady Stephens paused, sniffed, slightly displeased, "It¡¯s just a check-up, what¡¯s there to see? Can¡¯t you keep Auntpany for a while?"


    Daisy rested her chin in her hand, smiling brightly, "I just want to see him."


    Lady Stephens pouted, a bit disdainful, "What¡¯s there to see..."


    Daisy said nothing, just smiled slightly.


    There¡¯s nothing really to see, she just likes it.

 Chapter 43 If you make me unhappy, I won’t let you be happy either

    <h4>Chapter 43: Chapter 43 If you make me unhappy, I won¡¯t let you be happy either</h4><h4></h4>


    "Your situation is quite special right now. If a bone marrow transnt is possible, it¡¯s best to do it as soon as possible."


    "Finding a bone marrow donor with a match like Miss Ginger is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In medical terms, it¡¯s nothing short of a miracle."


    "Let¡¯s schedule it for this weekend. In the next few days, try to rx, and we¡¯ll contact you again on Friday."


    ...


    Edward Stephens walked out of the attending physician¡¯s office with his coat, lit a cigarette, and was still pondering the doctor¡¯s words.


    Ever since finding out about this illness and being exiled to Banyan City to wait for death, he never expected there would be a chance for a cure. He couldn¡¯t imagine the reactions of those in his family, who were greedily eyeing his position, upon hearing this news.


    He took a drag from his cigarette, smirked slightly, and a cool, sardonic smile appeared on his face.


    As he reached the hospital entrance, about to stub out his cigarette and head home, he heard Daisy Ginger¡¯s crisp voice in his ear: "Edward!"


    Hearing this, Edward instinctively turned his head, only to find his arms suddenly filled with Daisy who had thrown herself at him.


    "Edward, I¡¯m hungry," she said, her voice slightly aggrieved. "Why did your medical check-up take so long?"


    Edward pulled her out of his arms, his tone somewhat indifferent, "I never asked you to wait for me." Seeing her itching to cling to him again, he ordered, "Stand still!"


    He couldn¡¯t understand why someone her age was still so clingy.


    "Oh." Daisy replied, pointing to a nearby western restaurant, "Let¡¯s eat there." After walking for a while and noticing Edward hadn¡¯t moved, she sneakily reached out and hooked one of his fingers.


    "..." Edward nced down at her hand, then at Daisy. He pursed his thin lips slightly but didn¡¯t shake her off.


    *


    Apanying her for a meal, Daisy seemed very happy.


    She ordered a bunch of food, not caring whether the two of them could finish it.


    Eventually, he had to personally stop her.


    "That¡¯s enough."


    Daisy seemed momentarily stunned, and only pouted when she saw his stern expression, "I¡¯m not asking you to treat me."


    Edward handed the menu to the waiter, "We can¡¯t finish all this food; no need to waste."


    "Oh." Daisy looked at him, blinking, "You¡¯re worried about waste? It¡¯s okay, we can take it to go... Besides, the dishes here are all your favorites." She hinted wildly.


    Edward calmly took a sip of iced water from his ss, nced at her, "It¡¯s my first time here."


    "Oh..." Daisy withdrew her gaze, speaking lightly, "Then you can try more in the future."


    He clearly had forgotten everything from the past.


    Edward frowned slightly, noting Daisy¡¯s evident disappointment and was just about to ask what was wrong when, suddenly, a ss of cold water was thrown onto Daisy¡¯s face from the next table.


    Daisy was slightly taken aback. She looked up at the three or four young girls gathered around their table.


    The girls seemed fairly young, devoid of any overbearing demeanor, yet they stood there indignantly, ring at her as though she were an infamous viin.


    From the moment she walked in, she¡¯d noticed that something seemed off with the girls at the nearby table, but she certainly hadn¡¯t expected to be sshed with water.


    Disturbed during her and Edward¡¯s first date, Daisy was visibly displeased. Her lively eyes narrowed slightly, yet her lips curved into her usual signature smile as she calmly patted her face dry with a napkin. She methodically asked, "What is it?"


    The girls were apparently caught off guard by her calm demeanor, exchanging a few flustered nces. Then, one particrly fiery girl stepped forward, pointing at Daisy¡¯s nose and demanded, "Are you Daisy Ginger?"


    Daisy smirked slightly, nodding, "Yes."


    Upon her admission, the girls all visibly exhaled with relief. The fiery girl pped the table and used through gritted teeth, "Daisy Ginger, you¡¯ve stolen the campus queen¡¯s fianc¨¦ and still have the nerve to unt it! How shameless can you be?"


    Hearing this, Daisy actuallyughed, tilting her chin up as she leaned back in her chair, looking at them, "Who are you guys?"


    "We¡¯re Emily¡¯s roommates," a girl with sses answered, looking at Daisy with evident resentment. Unable to hold back any longer, she said, "It¡¯s because of you that our campus queen had to take a break from school. Do you know how good her grades were? She could have gotten a guaranteed ce in graduate school!"


    "She took a break of her own ord, what does that have to do with me?" Daisy scoffed lightly, "I¡¯m not her mom. Why are you alling to me?"


    Hearing this, the girls grew even more furious.


    "You stole her fianc¨¦!"


    "If it weren¡¯t for you, she wouldn¡¯t have attempted suicide!"


    "She liked him so much, the whole ss knew it!"


    "Daisy Ginger, you¡¯ll get youreuppance for stealing your sister¡¯s man!"


    ...


    Daisy crossed her arms, leaning back in her chair, quietly listening to them curse her one after another. Once they ran out of steam, she pulled a cigarette from her bag, lit it, and took a drag, "Finished talking?"


    She was stunningly beautiful; her actions could be considered a spectacle. The girls, inly dressed, saw her in this manner and were all the more convinced she was a mischievous vixen, looking at her with disgust mixed with a touch of indescribable envy.


    "What are your names?" Daisy asked, holding the cigarette between her fingers, smiling as she looked up at this group of righteous female students.


    Women are generally more morally sensitive than men, especially vibrant young female college students. Emily¡¯s reputation seemed quite favorable at school, having ssmates stand up for her over a leave of absence.


    Her question seemed to make them wary, and the girl with sses asked, "What do you want to do?"


    "It doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t tell me." Daisy¡¯s smile turned chilly as she took out her phone, making a call, "Help me check Banyan University¡¯s Arts Department, ss 117, the three girls from Emily¡¯s dorm, where their parents work."


    The three girls were taken aback, staring at Daisy in surprise.


    "Once you find out, send the information to my email." Daisy instructed, without even ncing at the three female students¡¯ whitening faces, her usual smile steadfast, "Isn¡¯t it that Emily told you that my temper is particrly bad?"


    "If you¡¯ve upset me, then I won¡¯t let you be happy either," she teased, exhaling smoke as she leaned on her hand, watching them with a smile, "Isn¡¯t that fair?"


    Helping these na?ve female students face the harsh realities of society was a duty society people¡¯s individuals owed.

 Chapter 44: "Edward Stephens, I’m unhappy.

    <h4>Chapter 44: Chapter 44: "Edward Stephens, I¡¯m unhappy.</h4><h4></h4>


    The faces of the three female students turned pale as snow when Daisy Ginger intimidated them.


    They just had a good rtionship with Emily Ginger and couldn¡¯t stand seeing her sister snatch her boyfriend, so they couldn¡¯t help but vent their anger for her. Little did they know that in just a few minutes, they¡¯d be used to vent someone else¡¯s anger.


    "Daisy, Daisy Ginger, what are you trying to do?" The girl with sses called out to her with fake bravado, "This is between us and you and has nothing to do with our family!"


    Daisy Ginger smiled with bright eyes, holding her face in her hands as she looked at them, "I don¡¯t even know you, do I? How is this a matter between us?"


    "You, you..." The girl was on the verge of tears out of fear.


    Edward Stephens watched her eagerly bullying the female students like a cat finding a fun toy, with her eyes gleaming.


    He couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes and took Daisy¡¯s phone from her hand, saying, "Stop ying."


    Daisy grabbed his hand, ying with his fingers in her palm, pouting unhappily, "Edward Stephens, are you feeling sorry for them?"


    Feeling sorry for what?


    Edward Stephens pulled his fingers out of her palm and patted her hand, "Stop it."


    Seeing Edward Stephense to their rescue, the three female students looked at him gratefully. Emily had shown them Edward Stephens¡¯ photos, and now, seeing him in person, they found him even more outstanding and handsome than in the photos. No wonder Daisy wanted topete with her for him.


    "Mr. Stephens," the feisty girl with reddened eyes said to Edward, "I know you like Emily, and it¡¯s all this woman¡¯s fault. Neither we nor Emily will me you. But, if you have time, could you help us check on Emily? We can¡¯t contact her, and someone at school said she¡¯s been harassed by some hooligans. If you have time, could you see if she¡¯s really in trouble..."


    Edward Stephens remained expressionless and said indifferently, "I have no contact with her anymore; you should ask someone else."


    "...I, I understand." The girl, not getting a definite response, looked away in disappointment. She was the closest to Emily, and at this moment, her look towards Daisy was filled with hatred. But knowing she couldn¡¯t confront Daisy head-on, she hung her head and was pulled away by the two girls beside her.


    Daisy Ginger took a sip of ice water before speaking, "Are you feeling anxious now, worried, wanting to put down your chopsticks immediately and go find her?"


    "Don¡¯t speak sarcastically."


    Daisy put down the water cup, pursed her lips slightly, "Edward Stephens, I¡¯m not happy."


    The man turned his head slightly to nce at her, his voice cold, "Do you need me to coax you?"


    "Your wife got sshed with water and bullied by others; what¡¯s the harm in coaxing her a bit?"


    Edward Stephens poured a ss of red wine, his expression indifferent, "Did they say anything wrong?"


    Daisy was silent for a moment, her expression frozen for an instant. After a while, she suddenly raised her hand and sshed the water from her cup onto the man¡¯s face.


    Edward Stephens frowned, looking at Daisy, who sat opposite him, with somber eyes.


    The woman looked at him calmly, her bright ck eyes shing with cold brilliance, and she said word by word, "Edward Stephens, anyone can criticize me, but you have no right to!"


    He sneered, wiping the water from his face with his hand, disdainfully saying, "Because my life belongs to you?"

 Chapter 45: I Don’t Want Your Life, I Only Want You

    <h4>Chapter 45: Chapter 45: I Don¡¯t Want Your Life, I Only Want You</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips and said, "I don¡¯t want your life, I just want you."


    Edward Stephens was already used to her self-centered talk. Daisy¡¯s reply didn¡¯t bother him, and he casually took a sip of his drink and said, "Daisy, I don¡¯t want to argue with you."


    Daisy lightly bit her lower lip, looking at Edward¡¯s calm and indifferent expression, not knowing what he was thinking. After a moment, she slowly withdrew her gaze and muttered softly, "Fine, no arguing."


    The food Daisy ordered was served as usual, steaming and all things she and Edward used to share.


    Edward held the knife and fork, cutting the steak. He ate with a calm demeanor, showing no emotion on his handsome face.


    Seeing his expression, Daisy suddenly lost her appetite. Her knife and fork poked at the meat listlessly, and she had no interest in her favorite peach soda.


    Edward, that insufferable man, indeed didn¡¯t seem to like the food at this ce, even though they used toe here countless times...


    In the end, Daisy couldn¡¯t even finish her own portion of the food she ordered.


    Edward looked at her sulking appearance and coldly said, "Next time youe out with me and don¡¯t want to eat, just say so."


    Daisy pursed her lips, feeling a bit aggrieved; a good date ruined by Emily Ginger¡¯s ssmate, and Edward was even being stern with her!


    Feeling upset, she couldn¡¯t eat. So what? She doesn¡¯t need him to pay!


    Expressionless, she grabbed her bag and stood up, handing her bank card to the waiter, ring at the man, "Did I spend your money? It¡¯s good enough there¡¯s food; whyin so much?"


    Edward said, "Are you eating gunpowder?"


    He took the card back from the waiter and handed over his own card.


    "You ordered so much and didn¡¯t eat it; can¡¯t I say one word?"


    Daisy puffed her cheeks, "No way!"


    The waiterpleted the transaction and handed the card back to Edward: "Sir, your card."


    Edward took it, nced at Daisy, and said, "I¡¯m going home."


    Daisy immediately said, "I want to go shopping; you¡¯re not allowed to go home either."


    Edward indeed didn¡¯t want to argue with her, but still couldn¡¯t help but wonder, who spoiled her into having such a domineering personality?


    How was she so pampered, so unreasonable?


    Having raised such a troublemaker, even patience seemed boundless.


    Seeing Edward sit there silently staring at her, Daisy walked over and grabbed Edward¡¯s arm, boldly saying, "I don¡¯t care, I didn¡¯t drive here. You have to take me home, or what if I¡¯m dragged into the woods alone at night?"


    Edward: "..."


    She indeed had a point.


    With the mall nearby, Daisy dragged Edward to go shopping, and even stopped at the milk tea shop for a drink.


    Such a typical girlish behavior.


    She said it was shopping, but actually pulled him through store after store, floor after floor, until Edward couldn¡¯t help rolling his eyes.


    Despite seeing so much, she didn¡¯t buy much; aftering down from one floor, she only bought a few lipsticks.


    Edward, feeling a bit impatient, carried her lightweight shopping bags, and asked her, "Just this much?"


    "I just said I¡¯de for a look, right," she tilted her head, looking at him with a smile, her eyes bright, "I haven¡¯t had time toe out for ages. I just wanted toe out and see with you."


    Other girls at her age were still in school, but she had already inherited thepany and traveled all over.


    Where would she find time to hang out and have fun like ordinary girls?


    It¡¯s just that today, Edward was unusually free, and she had time too, toe out together and just look around casually.


    Edward looked into her bright eyes, finding her a bit obedient at the moment. He responded indifferently, and as they were about to take the elevator, they heard a soft voice behind them, "Edward."

 Chapter 46: Daisy Ginger was very satisfied.

    <h4>Chapter 46: Chapter 46: Daisy Ginger was very satisfied.</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger clung to Edward Stephens¡¯s arm and turned her head when she heard the voice.


    Not far away, Emily Ginger stood with a young man who had a gentle and refined demeanor. She wore light makeup, but it was still evident that herplexion was not as good as usual, showing slight traces of recovering from a severe illness, looking somewhat haggard. As she gazed at them, a timid and gentle smile appeared on her face.


    It had been a month since Daisy Ginger and Emily Gingerst met. In other words, ever since Emily Ginger attempted suicide by overdosing on drugs, Daisy hadn¡¯t visited her in the hospital.


    She had no idea when Emily was discharged, nor when Emily started seeing this young man standing beside her.


    Daisy Ginger looked up and nced at Edward Stephens.


    The man stood beside her, his posture and expression as calm as ever, his gaze resting on Emily Ginger without much fluctuation.


    Daisy Ginger was very satisfied.


    Daisy Ginger waved her hand, greeted the young man beside Emily Ginger, "Ian, what a coincidence."


    The man beside Emily Ginger was known to Daisy Ginger. He was the student council president of Banyan City Academy and the future heir to The Linton n. Although not yet graduated from university, he had already started taking over family businesses, having dined with Daisy Ginger on a few business asions, he was indeed talented and promising.


    Abigail Perry¡¯s actions were swift. Seeing that Edward Stephens was not an option, she immediately found a new talented youth for Emily Ginger. Her choice proved to be quitemendable; her experience truly showed.


    Upon seeing Daisy Ginger, Ian Linton smiled politely and nodded gracefully, addressing her as Director Ginger, then greeted Edward Stephens, "Edward, it¡¯s a pleasure to finally meet."


    Edward Stephens nodded slightly in acknowledgment, his expression indifferent.


    Emily Ginger stood beside Ian Linton, observing their exchange without interrupting, her delicate brows showing faint traces of sadness, her gaze subtly resting on Edward Stephens with a hint of mncholy.


    Ian Linton said to Daisy Ginger, "Director Ginger, are you here for a meal? Emily and I were nning to head to the hotpot restaurant upstairs. Would you like to join us?"


    Looking at Ian Linton¡¯s expression, Daisy Ginger could tell this promising young man was aware of the past rtionship between Edward Stephens and Emily Ginger. Inviting them for a meal seemed like stirring the pot just for the fun of it, and Daisy Ginger found herself perfectly matched with him.


    Daisy Ginger smiled brightly, clinging to Edward Stephens¡¯s arm, looked up at him, "Edward, I want to eat hotpot."


    Edward Stephens frowned, "Didn¡¯t you just eat?"


    "I didn¡¯t eat," Daisy Ginger said confidently, "You ate all that food by yourself."


    Edward Stephens looked at her, lying without blushing, "I should have packed that food for you."


    Daisy Ginger turned her head, "Anyway, you have no proof."


    Ian Linton, lookingposed, said, "Edward, Director Ginger, since we¡¯re destined to meet, why not have a meal together? Besides, I have some work-rted questions to consult Director Ginger."


    Daisy Ginger smiled radiantly, "No problem."


    Having said this much, Edward Stephens wasn¡¯t the type to embarrass people casually, so the group headed upstairs to the hotpot restaurant on the mall¡¯s top floor.


    Emily Ginger followed Ian Linton, keeping her head down with an unmistakable mncholic expression, not speaking throughout.

 Chapter 47: "Director Ginger and Young Master Wen, their relationship is indeed quite good.

    <h4>Chapter 47: Chapter 47: "Director Ginger and Young Master Wen, their rtionship is indeed quite good.</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger and Ian Linton were chatting andughing as the four of them went to the hot pot restaurant together.


    "Edward, I¡¯m not really good with spicy food, shall we order a mildly spicy one?" Daisy Ginger held the menu and started picking the broth base.


    Edward Stephens leaned back in his chair, fiddling with his phone. He remained quiet the whole time, only responding with a simple "As you wish" when Daisy spoke to him. After all, he wasn¡¯t eating.


    Ian Linton smiled from across the table, "Emily isn¡¯t very good with spicy food either, let¡¯s get a clear broth and a mildly spicy one."


    Emily Ginger sat beside Ian, looking visibly downcast. When Ian handed her the menu, she absentmindedly picked a few items and then pushed the menu back.


    Daisy, on the other hand, was in high spirits. After choosing the broth base, she and Ian picked the restaurant¡¯s signature dishes, soon filling the table with their selections.


    Edward knew that despite her enthusiasm, Daisy had a big appetite but ate very little. Noticing her eager interest in everything, he nced at her.


    When it came to food, Daisy was like a child. She clearly couldn¡¯t eat much, yet everything seemed novel to her, and she wanted to taste it all.


    No adult self-control at all.


    Daisy caught Edward¡¯s gaze, handed the menu to the waiter, and turned to Edward, "Are you about to say I ordered too much again?"


    Edward sneered, ignoring her, "Can¡¯t be bothered with you."


    Ian Linton chuckled elegantly from across the table, "Director Ginger and young Mr. Stephens really get along well."


    Edward was taken aback, looking at Ian with a hint of disbelief¡ªAre you blind?


    Daisy, however, shamelessly agreed, smiling, "Indeed."


    Emily¡¯s face grew paler, and she looked as if she might faint as she sat in her chair.


    The hot pot was soon served. Daisy and Ian chatted enthusiastically while enjoying the meal, talking about everything from business matters to global topics, thoroughly enjoying themselves.


    Edward had little appetite, his expression indifferent. He only spoke up when Ian sought his advice, though he never joined their conversation. Ian, however, found Edward¡¯s views on various professional issues quite unique and incisive, making him look at Edward with increasing admiration.


    Edward didn¡¯t think much of it. He was groomed to be the Stephens family heir from birth, learning business management. To him, Ian¡¯s questions were child¡¯s y.


    If it weren¡¯t for his sudden illness, he might never havee to Banyan City.


    Daisy was quite proud, gazing at him with admiration, which made Edward tap her forehead in warning, "Eat properly."


    After over an hour of eating, Ian got up to pay the bill, and the four of them left the hot pot restaurant.


    At the entrance, Ian handed over a business card with a smile, "I¡¯ve long heard of young Mr. Stephens¡¯ reputation. Today¡¯s meeting proves it true."


    Though the Stephens don¡¯t have businesses in Banyan City, as a family immersed inmerce for generations, they¡¯re unavoidable in the business world. Edward, being the heir, offered valuable guidance.


    Edward epted the business card, giving Ian a slight nod without saying anything or ncing at Emily beside him, and turned to leave.


    Emily remained standing there, watching his retreating figure. The thought that she had once been the one standing by his side brought tears to her eyes.

 Chapter 48: "Edward, do you like Daisy Ginger?

    <h4>Chapter 48: Chapter 48: "Edward, do you like Daisy Ginger?</h4><h4></h4>


    After walking a few steps, Daisy Ginger tugged on Edward Stephens¡¯ hand, "Edward, I want to go to the restroom."


    Edward Stephens raised his chin, "Go ahead."


    Daisy Ginger reached out and hung the burgundy bag she was holding onto Edward Stephens¡¯ arm, "Then you help me carry this."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ brow indeed furrowed, and Daisy Ginger quickly said, "When boyfriends and girlfriends go shopping, the boyfriend is supposed to carry the girlfriend¡¯s bag. Besides, you¡¯re still my husband now."


    "If you don¡¯t want to carry it yourself, why bring a bag?"


    "Because it looks nice." Daisy Ginger replied confidently, "And aren¡¯t you here?"


    Edward Stephens frowned but said no more, raising his chin, "Go quickly."


    "Wait for me nearby." Daisy Ginger wrapped her arms around his neck, kissed his lower lip, and her slender figure soon vanished into the crowd.


    Edward Stephens,tely ustomed to Daisy Ginger¡¯s touches, showed no reaction even as she kissed him. He looked down at the burgundy bag covered in sequins with some dislike, intending to find a quiet corner to wait, when he heard Emily Ginger¡¯s gentle voice from behind: "Edward..."


    Her voice carried a slight sob. In the bustling mall, Edward Stephens stood silently for a moment before slowly turning to look at her.


    Past lovers meeting, one reserved and indifferent, the other with reddened eyes.


    Edward Stephens looked at her for a while before reaching into his pocket for a cigarette. He held it between his lips and said lightly, "Go to the corner."


    Emily Ginger couldn¡¯t help but wipe her eyes, looking as though she would cry upon seeing him. She lowered her head, not daring to meet his eyes, and followed the man slowly toward the corner.


    In the corner, Edward Stephens lit the cigarette, the clear scent of tobo spreading through the air. Emily Ginger, smelling the familiar aroma, couldn¡¯t hold back her tears, which flowed down her cheeks.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the wall without speaking, his handsome features carrying a natural aloofness.


    After a while, Emily Ginger managed to calm herself and said in a hoarse voice, "Recently, I was harassed by some thugs, it was Ian who was passing by that saved me."


    Edward Stephens replied calmly, "He¡¯s a decent person."


    Emily Ginger couldn¡¯t help crying again, choking for a few minutes before quietly sobbing, "Edward, I¡¯m sorry..."


    "You have nothing to be sorry about," Edward Stephens said ndly, his gaze falling on Emily Ginger, "I failed you. Find someone and have a good life."


    His tone was t and devoid of emotion. Emily Ginger raised her head, looking at the man¡¯s handsome and noble face in front of her. There was no hint of a smile in his eyes, only the deep gaze that rested on her, deeper than usual.


    He had loved her, if it weren¡¯t for Daisy Ginger...


    Whenever she thought about it, her heart couldn¡¯t help but curl up, filled with regret and unresolved feelings.


    Edward Stephens looked at her, his eyes deep, and after a moment, he calmly looked away when his phone rang. Daisy Ginger¡¯s voice chirped from the phone, "Edward, I¡¯vee out now, where are you?"


    Edward Stephens responded calmly, "I¡¯lle find you," and then hung up.


    Emily Ginger watched as the man brushed past her, unable to help but ask, "Edward, do you like Daisy Ginger?"


    Edward Stephens stubbed out the cigarette butt and tossed it in the trash bin, as if he hadn¡¯t heard her question, leaving without looking back.

 Chapter 49: He Doesn’t Love Daisy Ginger

    <h4>Chapter 49: Chapter 49: He Doesn¡¯t Love Daisy Ginger</h4><h4></h4>


    After Edward Stephens left, Emily Ginger stayed alone in that corner, squatting on the ground and crying for quite a while.


    Until Ian Linton walked over.


    She looked up, her eyes red, at the young, handsome, and refined man in front of her, her face full of tears.


    The man looked at her, sighed softly, and wiped her fair and smooth little face with a tissue, saying gently, "Emily, at this point, I¡¯m your best choice."


    Emily Ginger¡¯s eyes filled with tears as she looked at Ian Linton without saying a word.


    The man¡¯s voice was calm as he said to her, "Daisy Ginger has already married Edward Stephens. Even if you wait until the ends of the earth, don¡¯t expect her to give Edward back to you."


    He had seen Daisy Ginger¡¯s ways in the business arena, and everyone in Banyan City¡¯s business circle who had dealt with the Gingers had experienced Daisy Ginger¡¯s tactics.


    What she wants, once she¡¯s gotten it, don¡¯t expect her to give it back.


    More ruthless than Gabriel Ginger, and more decisive in her ways than Gabriel.


    Hard to imagine, she¡¯s only twenty-four years old, just a young woman who hadn¡¯t even had the chance to finish college.


    "Emily, you¡¯re so simple, you can¡¯tpete with your sister."


    He stroked Emily Ginger¡¯s hair, his voice gentle, "You¡¯re so pitiful, let me protect you, okay?"


    Emily Ginger looked at the young man in front of her. He was handsome and refined, and his eyes held a warm tenderness as he gazed at her. She remembered Edward Stephens telling her, "Find someone good for yourself."


    She covered her mouth, bursting into tears, "Ian, I really like him."


    Ian Linton reached out and gently embraced her, saying warmly, "I know. Let me wait for you, give me a chance, okay?"


    Emily Ginger leaned on the man¡¯s chest, sobbing as she cried.


    Ian Linton hugged Emily Ginger, lifted his head, and looked toward the second-floor corridor.


    Earlier, he had stood there with Daisy Ginger, watching Emily Ginger and Edward Stephens talk in the corner.


    Throughout, the smile on that woman¡¯s face was bright and cheerful, with no sign of what she was truly thinking.


    The past events between Edward Stephens and Daisy Ginger were well-known across Banyan City, known by everyone.


    Back then, in that kidnapping case that shook the entire city, Edward Stephens took seventeen knife wounds for Daisy Ginger, and when the ambnce brought him out, he was already out of breath.


    Later, it was said they brought him back to life, but since Banyan City¡¯s medical capabilities were insufficient, he had to be transferred to the United States for treatment.


    A man suffering such severe injuries for his woman, truth be told, he respected him for it.


    Edward Stephens loved Daisy Ginger, loved her to the point of being willing to die.


    Daisy Ginger waited for Edward Stephens in Banyan City for eight years.


    What could Emily Ginger use topete with Daisy Ginger?


    A woman like Daisy Ginger, for the sake of Edward Stephens, didn¡¯t make a ruthless move to destroy her, which was all due to her mercy and softness.


    Not far away, Daisy Ginger was holding Edward Stephens¡¯ arm, and the two of them were walking toward the door.


    The woman smiled like a blooming flower, while the man¡¯s expression was calm.


    Does Edward Stephens still like Daisy Ginger now?


    He certainly doesn¡¯t like her.


    A man liking a woman is something you can see in the possessive look in his eyes.


    Eight years have passed, and that man who once risked his life has forgotten the woman he once deeply loved.


    He asked Daisy Ginger, "Why not tell him about the past?"


    Daisy Ginger replied, "He may have known, but he simply doesn¡¯t care."


    All the strange urrences have traces to follow, it¡¯s just that Edward Stephens doesn¡¯t care.


    He doesn¡¯t love Daisy Ginger, so he doesn¡¯t care about everything rted to her.

 Chapter 50: What kind of foolish straight man is this?

    <h4>Chapter 50: Chapter 50: What kind of foolish straight man is this?</h4><h4></h4>


    On the way back, Edward Stephens lit up two cigarettes while driving.


    Daisy Ginger knew that Edward didn¡¯t have much of a smoking habit. Smoking two cigarettes in a row probably meant he was in a bad mood.


    She chatted with a friend on WeChat for a while with her head down. Seeing that he was about to light a third one, she pouted and purposely taunted him, "Edward Stephens, you might not know this, but Emily Ginger is about to get engaged to Ian Linton soon. By then, they¡¯ll have two kids in three years and you¡¯ll have nowhere to cry."


    Edward paused his action of lighting a cigarette and shot Daisy a sidelong nce, scoffing, "Are you nuts."


    Daisy retorted without hesitation, "You¡¯re the one who¡¯s nuts."


    Edward ignored her, lit the cigarette with a lighter, but before he could take a puff, Daisy snatched it away.


    She stubbed it out in the ashtray and said, "No smoking."


    Edward looked at her for a moment, not sure what had her riled up this time.


    The desire to smoke was interrupted by Daisy, and it dissipated.


    He withdrew his gaze, clicked his tongue, and tossed the lighter aside, "Annoying."


    Daisy, unabashed, said, "Edward Stephens, don¡¯t you know? Wives are annoying. If you have the guts, stay single forever."


    Edward listened to her talking nonsense so seriously, and with a steady voice said, "Shut up."


    The bickering was giving him a headache.


    Daisy nced at him with her big eyes and indeed stayed quiet for a moment. She propped her face up and watched the scenery outside the window for a while, then started chattering again, "Edward Stephens, where are you taking me? I remember this isn¡¯t the way to your house."


    Edward replied, "Taking you home."


    Daisy was not pleased, "I don¡¯t want to go home."


    Edward nced at her. Then where did she want to go?


    "How about this, you take me to the city center," Daisy blinked at him, "I¡¯ll show you the house I have in the city center, okay?"


    Edward said, "Not interested."


    "Come on,e on,e on."


    He was already irritable, and Daisy¡¯s pestering made it worse. He wished he could tape her mouth shut.


    "Navigate."


    He said in a deep voice.


    Daisy achieved her goal, and the corners of her rosy lips curled up into a sly little fox-like smile, unable to hide her smugness.


    She quickly entered the navigation, then sat properly, "I knew you¡¯d want to go."


    Getting a bargain while iming righteousness.


    Edward nced at her, too disdainful to argue.


    The vi Daisy bought in the city center was developed by her ownpany. She kept one set she liked the most for herself and had only finished decorating it half a year ago.


    Now, the housing prices have risen to a hundred thousand per square meter, practically an inch of gold for this semi-detached vi with extensive greenery, barely able to see any surrounding neighbors.


    Edward parked the car at the entrance of the vi, just nced at it, and retracted his gaze out ofck of interest.


    Having been ustomed to good things from a young age, he no longer found ordinary things shocking or novel. Lazily reclining on the seat, he opened the car door and nodded his jaw at Daisy, "Go on."


    Daisy looked at his actions, somewhat in disbelief, "Edward Stephens, this house is only mine."


    Edward nced at her, furrowing his brow slightly, seemingly puzzled, "Weren¡¯t you the one who wanted toe here?"


    Daisy looked at him, truly shocked¡ªwhat kind of oblivious guy is this? Being alone together in a house, can¡¯t he understand her hint?


    Daisy stared at him for a while, Edward also looked at her, and the two of them were at a standstill.


    In the end, it was Daisy who gave up first.


    She pouted and turned her head, "Forget it. But once you¡¯re done with the surgery, you have to promise me one thing."


    Edward was even more puzzled, "Why?"


    Why would he have to promise her something after taking her home, what kind of lousy deal is this?


    He wouldn¡¯t do it.

 Chapter 51: "Edward Stephens, if you’re a man, stop talking so much nonsense!

    <h4>Chapter 51: Chapter 51: "Edward Stephens, if you¡¯re a man, stop talking so much nonsense!</h4><h4></h4>


    "Just agree when I tell you to." Daisy Ginger pouted and turned her head, ncing at him, "Edward Stephens, be a man, stop with the nonsense!"


    "..."


    Edward Stephens expressionlessly grabbed her by the back of her neck, about to throw her out of the car.


    If he talked nonsense with her any longer, his name would be written backwards.


    Daisy wrapped her arms around his waist, clinging to him tightly and refusing to let go.


    Edward looked down at her little face, veins popping on his forehead, his voice so deep it could drip water, "Daisy, what on earth are you doing?"


    In broad daylight, does she have no shame?


    Daisy raised her head, looked at the tightly pressed line of his lips for a moment, then suddenly lifted her head and gave him a peck on the lips.


    Edward was used to her sudden affection and remainedpletely unfazed, sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, watching her coldly like she was a fool.


    Daisy blinked and wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing his lips again.


    In the not spacious car cabin, their breaths mingled for a moment. Daisy caught a whiff of Edward¡¯s cold tobo scent mixed with his hormones, and his deep-set eyes reflected her face in the bright midday light.


    At this moment, his eyes were full of her.


    This thought shed in her mind, causing her heart to inexplicably heat up. She couldn¡¯t help but lower her head, capturing his lips again.


    Then, she licked him with her tongue.


    The next second, Daisy felt the man in her arms tremble all over, and he instinctively pushed her away.


    He raised his eyes, looking at her with shock.


    Edward, that damn man, always seemed indifferent when looking at others, cold and impatient with her, generally calm andposed in his demeanor.


    Even when he was forced to marry her initially, he didn¡¯t react much.


    Daisy had known him for so many years, yet this was the first time she saw such intense emotions surface in his dark eyes, as if she¡¯d just done something both incredible and heinous.


    Daisy tilted her head, observed his expression for a while in confusion, and then, as if realizing something, her eyes gradually lit up, and she began tough intermittently, "Edward, you..."


    Edward¡¯s face instantly darkened. He pulled the clinging Daisy off of him and pressed her into the passenger seat, his voice cold, "Sit properly!"


    He seemed so shocked that he forgot to kick her out of the car and started the engine, driving towards the Stephens family home.


    Daisy swung her feet in the driver¡¯s seat, looking smug, "Edward, don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t even know how to kiss!"


    "..." Edward didn¡¯t reply, driving the car without acknowledging her.


    Daisy hugged a pillow in her arms, pondering something, asionally ncing at him, at times smiling to herself.


    Edward¡¯s face grew darker and darker with herughter.


    Several times, Edward almost couldn¡¯t hold back and nearly stopped the car to throw Daisy out.


    Fortunately, they returned home safely.


    Lady Stephens was pleasantly surprised to see Daisy and Edwarde back together, "Daisy, have you both eaten? Would you like to go out for a meal with auntie?"


    Edward headed straight upstairs upon returning, and Daisy followed behind him, waving at Lady Stephens, "Edward and I just came back from having hot pot... Auntie, I¡¯ll head upstairs first."


    If she didn¡¯t hurry, that damn Edward would shut the door on her!


    *


    Chapter One. Please vote for rmendations~

 Chapter 52 Edward Stephens, I will treat you well.

    <h4>Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Edward Stephens, I will treat you well.</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens took off his coat and saw Daisy Ginger sneaking in from outside the door.


    Edward hung the coat in his hand over the back of the sofa, turned around, and pretended not to see her.


    He gradually figured out a rule for dealing with Daisy¡ª the more attention he paid to her, the more she would push her luck; if he ignored her, she would instead quiet down.


    He took off his clothes, got into bed, pulled over the quilt, turned his back, and nned to sleep.


    He was unwell and needed rest, yet Daisy, that woman, was oblivious to the situation. It wasn¡¯t long before the bed dipped slightly; she had climbed up.


    Edward turned around, frowning as he looked at the woman lying on his bed.


    The woman looked at him innocently, "Edward, are you trying to sleep?"


    "..."


    "Then shall I keep youpany?"


    "Daisy," Edward finally spoke, his voice cold and emotionless, "you..."


    Daisy leaned in and kissed his lips gently, "Don¡¯t speak."


    Edward did not continue speaking, but his brows furrowed even tighter, and there was a hint of annoyance in his gaze as he looked at her.


    Daisy leaned against the pillow, facing him, and softly asked as she looked at his cold, silent face, "Edward, do you think I¡¯m too clingy?"


    "Actually, I won¡¯t be clingy for too long anyway." Daisy retracted her gaze, avoiding looking at his expression, just extending her hand to gently embrace the man¡¯s waist, pressing her face into his chest. "I have to go back to work soon. For these few days, can you just keep mepany, okay?"


    I waited for you for eight years; I only need you to apany me for three days.


    "When you get better, I promise not to be so clingy."


    The man didn¡¯t speak.


    Nor did he push her away.


    Daisy let out a slow breath, cautiously lifted her eyes, and saw that he had already closed his eyes.


    It seemed he was toozy to argue with her any longer.


    Daisy blinked her eyes, her gaze fixed unblinking on the man¡¯s noble and dazzling handsome face under the sunlight.


    His hair fell slightly, veiling his increasingly sharp mature features, softening his aura significantly, adding a touch of youthful innocence.


    Through this familiar yet strange face, she wanted to see the boy who held her hand eight years ago.


    The man¡¯s scent lingered in the air, enveloping her as if trying to swallow her whole in the sunlight.


    Cautiously, Daisy reached out her hand, tracing the man¡¯s profile through the air. Just seeing him filled her heart with joy¡ªthis treasured person she had waited so long for had finally returned to her side. Even if he no longer remembered her, she was still happy.


    She nestled slightly in his embrace, wishing to leave her scent all over him, letting the whole world know that Edward Stephens belonged to Daisy Ginger alone.


    Perhaps her little movements were too many, disturbing the man¡¯s sleep; the hand he ced on her waist gave her a light, warning tap.


    Daisy instantly froze.


    Shey with her eyes open, watching him for a while. When his breathing calmed, she whispered to herself in a voice only she could hear, "Edward Stephens, wee back to Banyan City."


    "I¡¯m very happy."


    "Edward Stephens, I will treat you well."


    Very well, very well.


    ...


    The afternoon sun didn¡¯t shine too intensely. In the warmth and embrace of the man, Daisy slowly fell into a deep sleep.


    The man, who had kept his eyes closed, slowly opened them, his gazeplex, falling on the face of the woman in front of him.


    She slept peacefully, even the corners of her lips carried a smile. Her skin, like wool cream, pure and clean, appeared innocent under the sunlight.


    Edward stared at her for a long time, his gaze deep, and after a moment, he slowly withdrew his gaze.

 Chapter 53: The Holiday is Over 1

    <h4>Chapter 53: Chapter 53: The Holiday is Over 1</h4>


    Three days passed in a blink of an eye.


    Friday was the day Edward Stephens underwent the bone marrow transnt surgery.


    After another round of check-ups at the hospital, Edward changed into a hospital gown and followed the doctors and nurses into the operating chamber.


    "Edward!"


    Daisy Ginger, who had also changed into a hospital gown to donate bone marrow for him, suddenly ran over from the crowd, grabbing his hand and fiercely saying to him, "Edward Stephens, I¡¯ve already married you. If this time you dare to make me a widow, I won¡¯t let you off even if you die!"


    Her voice was a bit loud, drawing the attention of the nearby nurses and doctors. Edward¡¯s face darkened as he looked at Daisy Ginger in front of him.


    Daisy¡¯splexion wasn¡¯t good, her eyes slightly red, and her cheeks appeared somewhat pale. Her slender fingertips that were gripping his hand were cold and without warmth.


    She looked flustered, uneasy, like a homeless cat.


    Edward¡¯s rebuke turned into a small sigh. He quietly watched her for a little while, then gently withdrew his hand from her palm and said, "It¡¯s fine."


    Then he turned around and calmly followed the doctors into the operating chamber.


    Daisy stood at the entrance, pressing her lips together, her delicate brows tightly furrowed.


    In the business world, a ny-nine percent sess rate almost guarantees sess.


    But in surgical treatment, even a one percent failure is intolerable.


    Clearly, not long ago she was using the bone marrow as leverage to threaten Edward Stephens but when it came to the surgery, she wished she could heal him one hundred percent.


    "Miss Ginger," a nurse approached her and gently said, "We should also get ready."


    Daisy nodded lightly, took onest look at the operating chamber, and followed the nurse away.


    *


    Daisy was helped up gently by a nurse from the bed in the bone marrow puncture room, frowning.


    Even though she had been given anesthesia, the pain still made her break out in a cold sweat.


    A nurse handed her a cup of warm water, "Miss Ginger, for the next few days, don¡¯t engage in any vigorous activities. Avoid getting the puncture wound on your back wet. If you feel any difort, remember to contact us, the doctors."


    Daisy nodded, took a sip of water, and let the warmth moisten her dry mouth.


    "It¡¯s best for you to stay in the hospital for a day; that way, if there¡¯s any difort, we can detect it in time."


    Daisy pushed her away, shaking her head, "I¡¯m fine."


    The door to the puncture room opened, and unexpectedly, it wasn¡¯t a nurse at the door. Daisy nced at the person and frowned, "What are you doing here?"


    "Director Ginger, there¡¯s a bit of trouble with the shareholders," said the secretary who had been waiting at the door for two hours. He knew the timing was off, given her pale face, but he plowed through cautiously, saying, "They¡¯re demanding you return to thepany right away to hold a shareholders¡¯ meeting."


    Daisy paused slightly. She looked calmly at her secretary, then said, "I understand. Go wait for me in the car downstairs, I¡¯ll be there shortly."


    The secretary, seeing her agree, quickly nodded, breathed a sigh of relief, turned, and swiftly left. Daisy remained standing and gently exhaled before turning to the nearby nurse with a smile, "I¡¯m sorry, could you bring my clothes over? I¡¯m in a bit of a hurry."


    "Miss Ginger, but you need to rest..." the young nurse replied softly, but seeing Daisy¡¯s face, she didn¡¯t dare refuse her request.

 Chapter 54 What, one person short?

    <h4>Chapter 54: Chapter 54 What, one person short?</h4><h4></h4>


    "I¡¯m fine."


    But her own holiday has already ended early.


    *


    "Daisy?"


    Lady Stephens was standing in front of the transnt ward, and seemed a bit surprised to see Daisy Ginger appearing in casual clothes.


    "Why are you up? Go back to bed and rest. You just had a biopsy done!"


    Daisy smiled at her, "I have something to do. How is Edward?"


    "The surgery is over." Lady Stephens spoke about her son with red eyes, holding Daisy¡¯s hand, unable to refrain from saying, "Daisy, I really don¡¯t know how to thank you..."


    Daisy smiled gently and didn¡¯t speak, turning her head to look at Edward Stephens who was still asleep in the transnt ward.


    She didn¡¯t need anything, because she had already received her thanks a long time ago.


    Daisy stood still, her bright eyes quietly gazing at the man on the bed, her gaze calm and deep.


    He was wearing an oxygen mask, breathing steadily, with a stable heartbeat, suggesting that everything was slowly getting better.


    This time, she saved him.


    She was no longer the person who could only hold his bloody body, feeling his temperature cooling bit by bit, his heartbeat stopping, as she broke down and cried despairingly.


    Everything will slowly get better.


    As long as she bes stronger, no one in this world will ever be able to hurt the people she cares about.


    Daisy took a deep breath, straightened her back, forcing herself to look away from Edward¡¯s face.


    "Auntie, there¡¯s an issue at mypany that I need to check on," Daisy said to Lady Stephens with a smile, "I don¡¯t have time to watch Edward wake up with you, I¡¯m sorry."


    "Daisy," Lady Stephens looked at her pale lips, feeling a bit sorry, instinctively reaching to hold her hand, "You just had a biopsy..."


    Daisy shook her head, "I¡¯m fine." She withdrew her hand from Lady Stephens¡¯ palm, nodded slightly at her, and turned away in high heels.


    Lady Stephens stood there, staring nkly at Daisy¡¯s departing figure, her brow gently furrowed, slowly ncing at the groggy Edward on the bed, not knowing what she was thinking, just with a slightlyplex expression.


    *


    Edward Stephens woke up four hours after the surgery was over.


    He still needed to stay in the transnt ward until the bone marrow transnted from Daisy into his body produced enough white cells, then he could be transferred to a regr ward.


    Feeling as if his body was not his own, Edward closed his eyes for a moment before slowly opening them to look around.


    The sterile ward was quiet, and with the absence of a certain chattering voice, there was surprisingly some difort with the sudden silence.


    He let out a snort in his heart.


    Habit truly is a terrifying thing.


    He looked up and saw his mother standing outside the ss wall, both happy and anxious, looking at him. He slightly nodded at her, nced around, then frowned lightly.


    Where¡¯s that one person missing?


    ...


    A weekter.


    Lady Stephens dressed in sterile protective clothing, carefully serving a bowl of chicken soup to Edward on the bed.


    "Edward, Dr. Leighton said you need to replenish nutrients. No matter what, you have to drink this bowl of ginseng chicken soup today."


    Edward loungedzily on the bed, stirring the chicken soup handed over by Lady Stephens, having been on nutritional IV for a week, he truly had no appetite for such things.


    He asked, "Why is it just youing?"


    Lady Stephens paused for a moment, instinctively replied, "Daisy is very busy with worktely, but..."


    Edward interrupted her, frowning, "Who mentioned her to you?"


    Lady Stephens became even more puzzled, "Then who else woulde to see you?"

 Chapter 55 Edward, do you want to drink?

    <h4>Chapter 55: Chapter 55 Edward, do you want to drink?</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens furrowed his brows slightly, said nothing, and lowered his head to start drinking the nd chicken soup.


    Although Lady Stephens hadn¡¯t mentioned it, he could tell this pot of chicken soup was probably made by his mother herself.


    Edward finished it in one go, then pushed the bowl aside and said tly, "No salt."


    Lady Stephens was taken aback, then quickly took a spoon to taste it herself.


    Upon tasting, it was indeed nd.


    Seeing her son¡¯s calm expression, Lady Stephens couldn¡¯t help saying, "Why did you drink it all without salt? I can go back and make you another pot."


    Edward: "It¡¯s troublesome."


    Lady Stephens looked at him a few times, pinched her son¡¯s cheek, and smiled, "Stubborn."


    Having his face pinched by his mother, Edward remained calm. He yawned and pulled up the quilt, "Going to sleep."


    Lady Stephens carefully cleaned up the dishes. She was raised in luxury from a young age and, apart from giving birth, had never experienced any hardship, her hands never touching spring water.


    She felt some guilt towards this son, so she took even more personal care of him. However, not used to chores, she couldn¡¯t distinguish salt from sugar, and the food she made was so unptable that even she couldn¡¯t eat it, yet Edward could finish it without batting an eye.


    As she tidied, Lady Stephens said, "Daisy¡¯spany recently ran into some trouble and she¡¯s extremely busy. Otherwise, with her personality, she¡¯de to see you even if she had to take leave. Edward, don¡¯t be upset; once Daisy¡¯s done, she¡¯lle to keep youpany."


    Edward initially didn¡¯t want to respond to her. But hearing his mother speak more and more absurdly, he finally couldn¡¯t help but darken his face, looking up to ask his mother, "What nonsense are you spouting?"


    Lady Stephens blinked innocently and said, "Did I just say something?"


    Edward: "..."


    This must be something learned from Daisy Ginger!


    Edward couldn¡¯t help rolling his eyes, lying back on the bed and pulling the quilt over his face, "Going to sleep. Don¡¯t bother me."


    Family members can¡¯t stay in the sterile room, so Lady Stephens cleaned up the dishes and went out.


    She handed the thermos bottle to the servant waiting outside and then stood outside the ss wall, watching her son. The surgery Edward had this time was very sessful, Daisy Ginger¡¯s bone marrow was a great match for him, and the white blood cell count had now reached five hundred. Soon, he could be moved to a regr ward.


    Having undergone this surgery, he would no longer be troubled by hereditary disease and could live like a normal person, not facing a life-threatening situation from a small wound.


    Lady Stephens¡¯ eyes were red as she looked on for a long time before she went downstairs with the servant.


    *


    Twenty dayster, Edward Stephens was moved to a regr ward.


    He was recovering well and in three days, he could be discharged.


    Lady Stephens entered, carrying a bouquet of sunflowers, and ced them on the windowsill.


    Edward leaned against the headboard, nced at the bouquet, and his brows furrowed slightly.


    Lady Stephens noticed and asked, "Don¡¯t like it? Just leave it for now; these flowers look cheerful."


    Edward withdrew his gaze, looked down at his iPad in his hands, and said indifferently, "Whatever."


    Lady Stephens knew her son disliked bright and gaudy flowers; he found them tacky. However, as he was about to be discharged, on such a joyous day, sunflowers, blooming so vibrantly, were quite fitting.


    Lady Stephens arranged the flowers and brought over a box of osmanthus cakes, "Look, Daisy sent these for you. I don¡¯t even have some, try one."


    Edward nced at the box¡¯s packaging, recognizing it as from a century-old store in Banyan City, which only sold two hundred boxes a day and was generally unavable to most.


    He wasn¡¯t particrly interested in such sweet snacks, so he picked one to taste and said, "You have it."


    Lady Stephens put the osmanthus cake back into the box, nced at her son¡¯s calm expression, and asked, "Edward, do you miss Daisy?"

 Chapter 56: We couldn’t reach Director Ginger last night.

    <h4>Chapter 56: Chapter 56: We couldn¡¯t reach Director Gingerst night.</h4><h4></h4>


    Lady Stephens put the osmanthus cake back into the box, nced at her son¡¯s indifferent expression, and asked, "Edward, are you missing Daisy?"


    Edward Stephens replied calmly, "If your eyes are blind, you can dig them out."


    Lady Stephens: "..."


    How could this brat talk to his mom like that!


    Lady Stephens pursed her lips and sat by the bed, "I miss Daisy, okay? It¡¯s been more than half a month, and I don¡¯t know how she¡¯s doing at thepany, she¡¯s so busy she hasn¡¯t made a sound..."


    Lady Stephens muttered on, while Edward Stephens remained silent the whole time. It was only after Lady Stephens left that he finally looked up and gazed out the window.


    The golden sunflowers bloomed vibrantly in the sunlight. Edward Stephens watched for a while before slowly withdrawing his gaze.


    *


    Until Edward Stephens was discharged from the hospital, Daisy Ginger still had not shown up.


    What exactly happened within the Ginger Group was naturally unknown to outsiders. Meanwhile, Abigail Perry continued shopping and attending banquets daily, exuding the aura of an aristocraticdy amid the clinking of sses; rumors of Emily Ginger dating the Linton family¡¯s eldest son also spread, making all the socialites in Banyan City envious¡ª


    Her fianc¨¦ was stolen by her own sister, and many secretly waiting to see her make a joke of herself were surprised when she quickly got involved with the heir of the Linton n. One must admit, Emily Ginger really has good fortune.


    ...


    That day, Edward Stephens was driving home when he suddenly received a call from an unknown number.


    He was about to press reject but identally pressed ept, and a cautious male voice came through: "Is this Mr. Stephens?"


    A face quickly matched this voice in Edward Stephens¡¯ mind, and he responded indifferently, "Yes, what is it?"


    "I am the secretary of Director Ginger, and it¡¯s like this," the secretary seemed a bit afraid of him, nervously replying, "We lost contact with Director Gingerst night. I called the Ginger family¡¯s old residence and was told she didn¡¯t return. There¡¯s an important document here waiting for her to sign, could you possibly help us get in touch with her..."


    Edward Stephens said ndly, "I don¡¯t know where she is."


    "This..." The secretary seemed not to have expected this answer, paused, then quickly apologized, "Sorry, sorry, then I¡¯m troubling you, Mr. Stephens, I¡¯ll try to contact someone else."


    Maybe he was really in a hurry, as soon as the secretary finished speaking, he hurriedly hung up.


    Edward Stephens nced at his dimmed screen and then turned the car around, driving in another direction.


    *


    A ck Bentley parked discreetly in front of Daisy Ginger¡¯s downtown vi.


    Edward Stephens, with a cigarette in his mouth, leisurely stepped out of the car.


    He wasn¡¯t sure if Daisy Ginger was here, and even if she were, the door was locked and he had no key, he probably couldn¡¯t get in.


    Thinking of this, he raised his hand intending to knock, but as soon as he touched the door, it opened a crack.


    Slightly taken aback, he went ahead and opened the door to walk in.


    Therge vi was exquisitely and luxuriously decorated. The furniture was all new, indicating that it was styled to be cozy, but perhaps because no one lived there, it didn¡¯t feel like a home, more like a model house.


    The wind blew in from an unknown direction, and the temperature inside the vi was actually a few degrees colder than outside. Standing at the doorway, Edward Stephens nced into the hall.


    A pair of ck women¡¯s high heelsy on the tidy floor. Walking in, he picked up an A4 paper printed with a document from the ground, looked up, and saw Daisy Ginger lying on the sofa still dressed in her ck and white office attire.

 Chapter 57 Edward... Is it because I miss you too much...

    <h4>Chapter 57: Chapter 57 Edward... Is it because I miss you too much...</h4><h4></h4>


    She probably fell asleep as soon as she got back, without changing clothes or removing makeup. Her long hair, once tied up, nowy scattered messily across her body, partially covering her face.


    Edward Stephens looked down at her for a moment, stubbed out his cigarette, and reached out a hand towards her.


    Perhaps his footsteps startled her, as his fingers had not yet touched her hair when Daisy Ginger, lying on the sofa with faint breathing, suddenly opened her eyes.


    Edward looked at her, and his movements paused.


    Daisy appeared a bit dazed, seemingly confused upon seeing him. Her breath was hot, and after gazing at him for a while, she softly said, "Edward... could it be that I miss you too much..."


    Edward observed her flushed cheeks and dry lips, and said indifferently, "You have a fever."


    Daisy blinked slightly, her gaze still unfocused, as if submerged underwater. Even the sound of Edward¡¯s voice came through with a vague buzz.


    She struggled somewhat, attempting to sit up. Seeing her slow movements, Edward reached out a hand to help her.


    Her arms were sweaty, sticking coldly to her skin. The thin silk blouse she wore was also damp with sweat, wrinkled and clinging to her body.


    It was the first time Edward had seen Daisy make such a mess of herself.


    Though she was restless, disobedient, and not the least bit docile, whenever she appeared before him, she was always neat, orderly, and immacte, with even her hair meticulously arranged.


    As a child raised in a wealthy family, the discipline of dressing well was etched into her bones. Appearing disheveled was an offense to herself.


    Edward, with a cold nce at Daisy sitting on the sofa, said, "Why didn¡¯t you go home?" Her secretary ended up calling him here.


    Daisy licked her lips and looked at Edward, seemingly a bit pleased. She softly replied, "I workedte, and this ce is closer to the office, so I came here. Did you go to my house looking for me?"


    Edward cast her a nce, noticing how unsteady she looked even sitting on the sofa, and asked, "Aren¡¯t you going to the hospital?"


    Daisy instinctively shook her head. "There¡¯s a contract I haven¡¯t signed yet. I¡¯ll rest a bit and then go back to the office."


    Edward nodded and said nothing further.


    If she wanted to bring this upon herself, he wasn¡¯t going to intervene.


    He looked around but didn¡¯t see anything to eat. His sleeve was tugged by Daisy, and he turned his gaze back to find her smiling at him from the sofa, "Edward, I¡¯m so happy you came to see me..."


    Herughter was silly, devoid of her usual shrewdness. Edward pulled his sleeve back from her fingers and asked, "Do you have anything to eat here?"


    Daisy looked at him nkly for a moment before slowly saying, "Are you hungry? I only have instant noodles, they¡¯re in the fridge. Let me get them for you..."


    Just as she was about to stand up, Edward had already turned around and walked towards the kitchen.


    Daisy watched as Edward¡¯s tall figure disappeared around the corner, feeling a bit lonely as she withdrew her gaze.


    She hadn¡¯t visited him once during his long stay in the hospital. Could Edward be angry with her...


    Her body felt limp, alternating between cold and hot, with no strength at all.


    She leaned back on the sofa, drowsy, with her mind in a muddled mess.


    A cold breeze blew over, and she shivered, groggily opening her eyes. Seeing the empty living room, she curled up as if she were afraid of the cold.


    Was it all just a dream...


    Why would Edwarde here to see her...


    *


    You readers are already mature, so I don¡¯t need to spell everything out clearly, right... For instance, remember to vote... ahem.

 Chapter 58: Nothing to Do with Me

    <h4>Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Nothing to Do with Me</h4><h4></h4>


    "Click."


    Something was ced on the crystal coffee table not far away.


    Footsteps sounded both near and distant, until a shadow was cast in front of her.


    Daisy Ginger struggled to open her eyes and saw a man looking down at her with a frown.


    "Edward Stephens," she murmured, somewhat puzzled, "Why are you here..."


    "Has the fever made you stupid?" The man stuffed a pair of chopsticks into her hand, "Hurry up and eat the instant noodles, I¡¯ll drive you to the hospitalter."


    Daisy Ginger stared nkly at the bowl of instant noodles opposite her. In the sunlight, steam rose, adding a touch of life to the otherwise empty vi.


    Her head was suddenly patted gently, pulling her back to reality, and she looked up at Edward.


    The man stood in front of her, looking down at her, frowning, "What are you standing there stunned for? Eat, did you hear me?"


    "Oh..." Daisy Ginger cautiously reached out and took the cup of instant noodles, sipping it gingerly; it was seafood vored, the same kind she¡¯s been eating for the past few days.


    But today, the taste of the noodles, which she¡¯d grown tired of, seemed particrly different.


    She sniffled and asked in a raspy voice, "Edward Stephens, why did youe over?"


    Edward stood by the door, lighting a cigarette, and upon hearing her voice, he nced at her, responding indifferently, "Your secretary called me to tell you to go back and sign the contract."


    "Oh..." Daisy Ginger responded with a nod, her expression unchanged, just curled up on the sofa, eating the noodles in small bites.


    Her hair was messy and untidy, her dress wrinkled and clinging to her body. A ray of sunlight nted in from the window,nding on her, making her look like a stray cat without a home.


    Edward leaned against the door, holding a cigarette, watching her eat the noodles over there.


    She rarely ate so earnestly, and finally finished even the soup, smiling at him from the sofa: "It¡¯s very good, Edward Stephens, thank you for making me noodles."


    As obedient as though she¡¯d be a different person.


    Edward tilted his chin slightly: "Change your clothes, I¡¯ll take you to the hospital."


    Daisy Ginger paused for a moment, then shook her head at him, "I have a contract negotiation this afternoon, it¡¯s gettingte, I¡¯ll go to the office first."


    Edward sneered, saying coldly, "Who cares."


    He turned indifferent suddenly, turned around, and went outside straight away.


    Daisy Ginger watched his back, feeling a bit flustered. It was rare for Edward toe find her, and it seemed she¡¯d made him unhappy.


    She stood up and instinctively chased after him, calling out, "Edward Stephens!"


    The man was standing not far away, turning his head to nce at her.


    Daisy Ginger struggled to walk over, trying to exin to him, "That contract is very important, and thepany has been unstabletely. If I don¡¯t secure this deal, the board will impeach me..."


    She seemed to want to reassure him, but the man interrupted her coldly, "No need to exin to me. It has nothing to do with me."


    Daisy Ginger looked at him, biting her lip, seemingly quite unsure.


    "I¡¯m leaving." The man stopped responding to her, turned around, and walked straight to the car.


    Daisy Ginger watched his back, her heart in a panic, and couldn¡¯t help but call out to him, "Edward Stephens, I..."


    Something warm flowed down from her nose, Daisy Ginger instinctively reached out, bright red droplets falling into her palm, she was momentarily bewildered, feeling her strength fading away with the blood.


    Her legs faltered, and she knelt onto the grass,rge blotches of blood staining her snow-white shirt...

 Chapter 59: Edward, Am I About to Die?

    <h4>Chapter 59: Chapter 59: Edward, Am I About to Die?</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens heard the sound of the copse and turned around to look.


    Damn.


    He cursed softly and quickly walked back, crouching down in front of Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy Ginger was on her knees, looking as if she was about to copse, her face as pale as if it were transparent in the sunlight.


    "Daisy Ginger," he said, cing a hand on her shoulder and furrowing his brow as he looked at her, "What¡¯s going on?"


    Blood was still dripping from her nose, soaking Daisy Ginger¡¯s shirt. She furrowed her thin eyebrows and raised her pale face to look at him, her voice sounding a bit aggrieved, "Edward Stephens, I feel terrible..."


    To think she still wants to sign a contract in this state. Edward chuckled lightly and reached out to pick Daisy Ginger up from the ground.


    The woman in his arms felt very light. He had never held her before, but she seemed much thinner than thest time they met.


    No weight at all.


    He stuffed her into the passenger seat and handed her a bunch of tissues, "Use these to block it."


    Daisy Ginger held the tissues to her nose, her voice sounding pitiful, "Edward, am I dying?"


    Edward gripped the steering wheel and nced at her, saying coldly, "Trouble like yousts a thousand years."


    Daisy¡¯s voice sounded even more aggrieved, "I¡¯m like this, and you won¡¯t evenfort me. Edward Stephens, do you have any humanity left?"


    She¡¯s in this state but still spewing nonsense. Edward couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes and was toozy to respond to her anymore.


    The air conditioning in the car was quite strong. After a while, Daisy Ginger hugged a pillow to herself.


    Actually, she didn¡¯t have much energy left. She talked to Edward Stephens just to keep herself awake, but when Edward didn¡¯t speak, her consciousness started to blur again, and she curled up in the car seat feeling cold.


    Something soft gently settled over her, enveloping her in a faint smell of tobo and the familiar scent of the man, surrounding her.


    Daisy Ginger opened her eyes and couldn¡¯t help but nce at the driver¡¯s seat, catching sight of the man¡¯s sharp and perfect profile. He was focused on the road and didn¡¯t notice her sneaking a peek.


    Daisy Ginger wrapped the cashmere nket around herself, tugged at the corners of her lips, suddenly feeling a bit relieved.


    Edward Stephens, thank you foring to see me.


    For taking me to the hospital.


    *


    At the hospital, they took her temperature, and she was immediately sent to the emergency room.


    After a series of blood tests, the doctor¡¯s expression grew increasingly grim as the results came in.


    Anemia, malnutrition, abnormally high white blood cells, symptoms of gastritis, a fever spiking to 42 degrees, requiring immediate cooling.


    In a time of abundant food, managing to bring oneself to malnutrition is quite an achievement.


    Daisy Ginger sat wrapped in a nket opposite the doctor¡¯s desk, listening attentively to his questions, aspliant as a schoolgirl, not daring to look back at Edward Stephens.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the door frame, his gaze resting on the woman inside.


    The doctor asked her, "How many days have you had a fever?"


    "I think it just started today."


    The doctor furrowed his brow, tapping the desk with his pen, warning coldly, "Miss Ginger, if you don¡¯t cooperate, what will we do if the treatment results are bad?"


    It¡¯s just a fever; why are there so many problems?


    Daisy Ginger nced at Edward Stephens at the door and saw his indifferent expression, without any other emotion, and only then did she respond reassuringly, "I think it started feeling warm about a week ago, but I drank hot water."


    "What have you been eatingtely?"


    "Instant noodles." Daisy couldn¡¯t help but exin again, "It¡¯s not like I eat instant noodles every day, I also drink coffee." Malnutrition, what¡¯s that supposed to mean? It really looks down on instant noodles.


    The doctor gave her a look, as if he was staring at some stubborn fool.

 Chapter 60: Even Worse Than Elementary School Students.

    <h4>Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Even Worse Than Elementary School Students.</h4><h4></h4>


    "Prolonged consumption of instant noodles has led to malnutrition, and untreated gastritis has resulted in a high fever. The nosebleed is your body¡¯s warning to you. I¡¯ve asked a nurse to get medication for you in the infusion room. You¡¯ll stay in the hospital tonight."


    The doctor, having written up the case, said to Daisy Ginger.


    "No way," Daisy Ginger protested urgently, "I have to work this afternoon..."


    The doctor frowned, "Take the medical report I¡¯m giving you to your boss. If he doesn¡¯t grant you leave, go to thebor bureau and report him."


    The doctor seemed quite displeased with her employer for exploiting employees like this.


    Daisy Ginger: "..."


    She helplessly looked at Edward Stephens.


    The man nced at her, then walked over. Daisy Ginger, touched, thought he was going to speak on her behalf, but then she saw Edward Stephens take the medical report and walk towards the door.


    "Edward..." she called out to him.


    Reaching the door, the man turned and, seeing her still sitting there, frowned impatiently, "What are you still doing there? Go to the ward."


    Daisy Ginger puffed her cheeks.


    I knew he wasn¡¯t so kind-hearted...


    She reluctantly stood up from the chair, wrapped in a small nket, trailing after him.


    "Edward..." she couldn¡¯t help but call out to him softly.


    Edward Stephens walked ahead, ignoring her.


    "Edward."


    "Edward."


    "I can¡¯t walk anymore."


    ...


    Edward Stephens stopped in his tracks, turned his head slightly, and looked at her.


    Daisy Ginger leaned against the wall, slightly panting, her face unusually flushed.


    She probably really was out of strength, leaning against the wall with trembling legs, her whole body on the verge of copsing.


    So pitiable that even someone with a heart of stone would feel some sympathy.


    Edward Stephens looked at her for a moment, then let out a light scoff, walked over, and picked her up in a horizontal embrace.


    Daisy Ginger seemed aware of her wrongdoing, curled up quietly in his arms, not daring to speak further.


    Upon entering the ward, a nurse immediately approached to help her change into hospital clothes.


    Being a man, Edward Stephens was asked to leave. With nothing to do, he leaned against a wall, fiddling with his phone for a while.


    Lady Stephens sent a message asking where he had gone and why he hadn¡¯t returned for dinner.


    After thinking about it, he decided not to mention Daisy Ginger¡¯s situation and simply replied that he was eating out.


    Edward Stephens waited for over half an hour before the nurse inside opened the door.


    Does it take that long to change clothes?


    He frowned slightly, walked in, and saw Daisy Ginger lying on the bed, with an IV drip attached. Her face looked even paler than before.


    Seeing him enter, she weakly called out to him, "Edward."


    Edward Stephens walked over, looked at herplexion, and frowned as he asked the nurse, "What¡¯s going on?"


    The nurse, arranging disinfectant cotton swabs, looked slightly intimidated by his icy demeanor and cautiously answered, "While changing Miss Ginger¡¯s clothes, we found pus signs at a needle site on her back. We just cleaned it up. Her immunity might be downtely, so let her take a painkillerter."


    She handed a small painkiller pill to him and pushed the cart out.


    Edward Stephens looked at Daisy Ginger lying in bed.


    The hospital gown was a normal size, but on Daisy Ginger, it hung loosely, revealing the cotton swabs applied to her treated area.


    Edward Stephens lowered his head, gazing at her frail and pale face, and asked her, "Do you want to take the medication?"


    Daisy Ginger shook her head, seeming to be in great difort, frowning continuously, "I can¡¯t take it. My stomach hurts."


    Edward Stephens looked at her for a while, then softly remarked, "Serves you right."


    A grown adult, yet still unable to take care of herself, worse off than a primary school student.


    *


    Vote suggestions~

 Chapter 61: Thank you for coming to take care of me. I am so happy.

    <h4>Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Thank you foring to take care of me. I am so happy.</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens went to pour a cup of warm water for her, helped her up from the bed, the cup pressed against her lips, "Drink this before you sleep."


    Daisy Ginger was really too sick to muster any energy, nced at Edward Stephens,cking the spirit to bicker with him, obediently took her medicine, drank the water, and continued lying on the bed.


    Edward Stephens ced the cup on the windowsill, heard Daisy Ginger softly call his name, "Edward."


    Her voice was as low as a milk kitten¡¯s. Too weak.


    Edward Stephens walked over, stood by the bed, looking down at her, "What¡¯s the matter?"


    "You¡¯re not leaving, right?"


    Edward Stephens looked at her, didn¡¯t say a word.


    Daisy Ginger bit her lower lip, pathetically said, "If you leave, I¡¯ll have to stay in the hospital alone. How pitiable."


    "If you were nicer to your family, you wouldn¡¯t be reduced to having no one visit you even when hospitalized."


    Daisy Ginger closed her eyes, turned her head away, "They¡¯re not my family."


    Edward Stephens nced at her, didn¡¯t say another word, directly turned around, opened the door, and left.


    Hearing the door close, Daisy Ginger then opened her eyes, looked towards the door, slowly withdrew her gaze, feeling somewhat aggrieved, curled up in difort.


    The ward was empty, cold wind blew in from outside the window, chilling her into shivers.


    She felt upset inside, toozy to call a nurse toe and close the window; with Edward Stephens gone, staying alone here really felt meaningless.


    Daisy Gingery on the bed for a while, simply pulled out the needle, lifted the quilt intending to get up and return to the office.


    "What are you doing?"


    A cold voice suddenly came from the doorway, Daisy Ginger sat on the bed, her spine stiffened, cautiously turned her head.


    Edward Stephens stood not far away, his face full of frost, frowning coldly at her.


    His tall figure blocked the light from the doorway, Daisy Ginger shivered.


    "Ed, Edward," she was so frightened she stammered, "Why did youe back?"


    Edward Stephens was carrying something in his hands; he walked in with a stern face, ced the boxed food on the table, turned around, looking down at Daisy Ginger sitting on the bed.


    Daisy Ginger curled up into a small ball under his shadow.


    Edward Stephens¡¯ tone was very harsh, "If you want to die, then don¡¯t call me."


    Daisy Ginger said aggrievedly, "I didn¡¯t." It wasn¡¯t her who called him. "I thought you left..."


    "Do I have to apany you all day long? You¡¯re not a child, can you stop being difficult?"


    Daisy Ginger looked at him, felt he was being terribly fierce right now; she was weak and dared not confront him.


    She lowered her head, softly replied, "Oh. Edward, I know I¡¯m wrong."


    Edward Stephens saw her weak little appearance, couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes, walked over, opened the box, and took out a spoon for her, "Since you¡¯re not asleep yet, have the porridge."


    Daisy Ginger stared dumbly at the porridge he brought over, suddenly became happy, "Edward, you actually went to buy porridge for me."


    Edward Stephens sat on the couch, legs crossed, ying with his phone, and replied indifferently, "Picked it up conveniently."


    Edward brought seafood porridge, unfortunately her mouth couldn¡¯t taste much now, it all tasted the same.


    Even so, Daisy Ginger tried her best to eat half a bowl.


    Edward Stephens rarely cared for her; she couldn¡¯t waste his kindness.


    With half left, Daisy Ginger covered it with the lid, nning to eat it in the evening.


    Shey on the bed, looked at the man sitting by the window, gently called him, "Edward."


    The man nced at her.


    "Thank you foring to take care of me. I¡¯m so happy."

 Chapter 62: Just Knows How to Act Spoiled

    <h4>Chapter 62: Chapter 62: Just Knows How to Act Spoiled</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t pay any attention to her this time.


    Daisy Ginger watched him for a while with her eyes open. The warmth in her stomach even warmed up her cold hands and feet. She was so exhausted she couldn¡¯t hold on and gradually fell asleep.


    Edward Stephens sat on the sofa, yed with his phone for a while, and heard the even breathing from the room.


    He looked up, his gazending on the pale face of the woman on the bed.


    Even in her sleep, she seemed restless, her brows constantly furrowed.


    Edward watched for a moment, got up, and walked out of the room, leaning against the wall by the door, and made a phone call.


    "Hey, Ryan..."


    *


    Daisy Ginger had a nightmare.


    She dreamed that her bedroom was on fire, and when she opened the door, a mass of mes rushed toward her.


    "Ah¡ª!" she screamed, her eyes snapping open.


    She felt very hot, her mouth dry, and it was already dark. The room was empty, and she could hear her rapid heartbeat and breathing.


    Feeling so lonely, she instinctively called out, "Edward!"


    Her voice echoed in the room.


    Edward Stephens wasn¡¯t there anymore.


    Actually, it was normal for him not to be there, but Daisy felt her heart sink, filled with unavoidable disappointment and sadness.


    Feeling upset, she couldn¡¯t help but call out his name again, "Edward..."


    "Calling the spirits or what."


    Suddenly, a man¡¯s voice came from the sofa not far away, startling Daisy Ginger.


    A tall figure stood up from the sofa and walked to the door to turn on the light.


    Under the light, the man¡¯s face looked annoyed.


    Daisy Ginger looked at him in surprise, as if a flower had bloomed on his face. After a long moment, she pouted and softly asked, "Why are you here?"


    "You can sleep but I can¡¯t nap?" Edward Stephens retorted, not pleased, as he walked over and nced at her face, then used his hand to check her forehead.


    His body temperature was much lower than hers. Daisy closed her eyes, nuzzling against his palm, muttering softly, "Then why didn¡¯t you answer me when I called you just now..."


    Edward Stephens: "Didn¡¯t feel like it."


    "..." Humph. Daisy puffed up her cheeks.


    "What do you want to eat tonight?" Edward Stephens poured her a ss of water, looking at her feverish cheeks, and nced down at her.


    Daisy was very surprised, not expecting to have such perks while being sick. Feeling a bit cocky, she raised her head, her eyes shining as she looked at him, "Anything at all?"


    Edward knew her attitude toward choosing food, gave her a look, "Same as before."


    "...Oh." Daisy regretfully withdrew her gaze, "Then the same as lunch."


    "Seafood porridge?"


    "Whatever."


    Edward threw another nce her way, then made a call to a nearby hotel to have them deliver food.


    After finishing, hezilyy back down on the sofa.


    Daisy nced at him, thinking he looked more like a patient than she did.


    "Edward."


    "What do you want?"


    "Will you also stay with me tonight?"


    "You think I have that much free time?"


    "You have nothing to do anyway!"


    "..."


    "Just stay with me for one night, I¡¯m so pitiful being in the hospital all alone," feeling a bit better, she started to make a fuss again. Edward sat on the sofa, watching Daisy throw off the covers, barefoot, running over to snuggle into his arms, looking at him with puppy eyes.


    There was a lingering smell of medicine on her, bitter, like a sick cat.


    Edward frowned with disdain, "Go back to bed."


    She held onto him and wouldn¡¯t let go.


    Edward frowned, looking down at her.


    She leaned up to kiss his face.


    Edward: "..."


    Tsk, she sure knows how to act cute.

 Chapter 63 Treat Her Like a Child

    <h4>Chapter 63: Chapter 63 Treat Her Like a Child</h4><h4></h4>


    "Can you stay with me at the hospital?"


    "No."


    "Then I¡¯ll go home with you."


    "No."


    Daisy Ginger pouted, clearly unhappy.


    Edward Stephens ignored her, picked her up, and put her back in bed.


    The nurse saw she was awake and came over to take Daisy Ginger¡¯s temperature.


    Edward leaned against the door with his arms crossed, watched for a while, and went to the vent to light a cigarette.


    "Thirty-eight degrees," the nurse nced at the thermometer, "Still a bit warm, you¡¯ll need to take antipyretics after dinner. We¡¯ll do another blood count tomorrow to see if the white blood cells havee down."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze was fixed on Edward Stephens, worried he¡¯d really leave her alone at the hospital. When she saw his figure disappear at the door, she didn¡¯t dare tell him not to leave, feeling a bit deste, she muttered, "Got it."


    When she came out, she hadn¡¯t brought her phone, and didn¡¯t know how thepany was doing.


    Daisy Gingery in bed, and sighed deeply with mncholy.


    Really frustrating.


    A half hourter, Edward Stephens appeared at the door carrying a takeout box.


    Seeing him, Daisy Ginger eximed in surprise, "Edward!"


    Edward smelled of tobo, and upon hearing her,zily nced at her, spoke up, "Stop being so startled."


    "I thought you¡¯d left."


    "I¡¯ll leave after dinner."


    "..." Sure enough, he¡¯s still going to leave.


    Even when she¡¯s sick he won¡¯t stay with her, really stingy.


    She obviously had an unpleasant aura about her, but Edward Stephens acted as if he didn¡¯t see it, taking out the seafood porridge she wanted. He¡¯d also ordered some appetizing small dishes for her.


    Daisy Ginger held the porridge and, looking at the small dishes, happily said, "Edward, how did you know I like to eat jellyfish?"


    Edward shot her a nce, and said indifferently, "Randomly picked."


    Despite his words, it was enough to make Daisy Ginger happy for a long time.


    Edward saw her swing between gloom and joy and couldn¡¯t help but wonder, has the fever gotten to her?


    After apanying Daisy Ginger for dinner, Edward called someone in to tidy up the takeout boxes.


    He picked up the coat from the sofa back, draped it over his arm, and said to Daisy Ginger, "I¡¯m leaving."


    Daisy Ginger sat on the bed, holding a pillow, pouted, and didn¡¯t utter a word, not even ncing at him.


    Such a child.


    He shot her a nce, not in the mood to console her, put on his coat, and left.


    Watching Edward Stephens leave, Daisy Ginger felt even more dejected.


    Stubborn man, he really left her alone!


    Edward Stephens did so much for her today, so throwing a tantrum was not an option. Feeling pent-up and deted, Daisy Gingery on the bed hugging her pillow, stewing in her own annoyance.


    A whileter, someone lightly knocked on the door.


    Daisy Ginger instinctively sat up, and called towards the door, "Edward!"


    "Miss Ginger, it¡¯s me." It was the nurse¡¯s voice.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s mood immediately sank, "Oh...What is it?"


    "Mr. Stephens asked me to give this to you."


    The nurse smiled as she entered, holding something.


    Daisy Ginger nced over and saw it was a cup of milk tea.


    "Edward says you can drink it now."


    "Oh..." Daisy Ginger took it, nced at the steaming milk tea in her hand, and pouted.


    Darn Edward Stephens, treating her like a child.


    ******


    Edward Stephens, someone suggested in thements that the domineering CEO shouldn¡¯t always roll his eyes.


    Expressionless Edward Stephens: rolls eyes.

 Chapter 64: The Wife Married for 1.5 Billion

    <h4>Chapter 64: Chapter 64: The Wife Married for 1.5 Billion</h4><h4></h4>


    Waking up, I was almost scared to death by the woman squatting beside my bed.


    Daisy Ginger clutched her pounding heart and couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Auntie, why are you here?"


    Lady Stephens had no idea how long she had been sitting there watching her. Seeing Daisy awake, with red-rimmed eyes, she grabbed Daisy¡¯s hand and choked out, "Daisy, why didn¡¯t you tell me you were sick? And malnourished. If I¡¯d known, I would¡¯ve sent someone to bring you food every day."


    It seemed Lady Stephens had already gone through her medical files while she was asleep.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s fever had just subsided, leaving her body limp and sore, as if she¡¯d been beaten up. She weakly waved her hand, "I¡¯m fine. A few days on a nutrient drip will fix me up." Looking around, Daisy asked, "Where¡¯s Edward?"


    "Why worry about that brat? He left early in the morning and wouldn¡¯t evene when I called him to join."


    "So Auntie, you came here alone?" Daisy smiled, "I¡¯m really okay, Auntie, don¡¯t worry too much."


    "How can I not worry?" Lady Stephens touched Daisy¡¯s forehead and urged, "It¡¯s still a bit warm. Lie back down, I¡¯ve made you breakfast. I¡¯ll go get it for you."


    Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t exactly a fragile woman, but being cared for so gently by Lady Stephens made her feel a bit helpless.


    She watched as Lady Stephens took out an array of foods from a thermos, at least seven or eight dishes, much more generously than Edward.


    "I heard from Edward that you¡¯ve been eating instant noodles all month?" Lady Stephens carefully brought over the ck rice porridge, "Daisy, Auntie knows running apany is hard, but no matter how hard it is, you have to eat properly."


    Daisy reached out for the porridge, nodding, "You¡¯re right, Auntie."


    Lady Stephens looked at her eagerly, with a gentle smile, "Daisy, try it while it¡¯s still warm, it won¡¯t taste good cold."


    The ck rice porridge, simmered on low heat, was soft and the rice fragrance fully blended into the broth. Daisy took a sip and looked up at Lady Stephens with a smile, "It¡¯s delicious, thank you, Auntie."


    "No need to say thank you among family." Lady Stephens ced each dish on the small table in front of Daisy, "When I heard from Edward you were hospitalized, I was scared to death. I knew you were busy these days, and didn¡¯t dare to contact you. If I¡¯d known you weren¡¯t eating well, I would¡¯ve had meals delivered to you."


    Daisy¡¯s smile deepened, "Edward asked you toe?"


    Lady Stephens nced at her and huffed lightly, "That boy didn¡¯t say anything, I wanted toe on my own."


    Daisy lowered her eyes, sipping the soup with a tender smile on her lips and eyes.


    *


    Lady Stephens stayed with her until noon, and they had lunch together before she left.


    As soon as Lady Stephens left, Daisy Ginger decided she wouldn¡¯t stay hospitalized any longer.


    She pulled out the needle, borrowed a phone from a nurse, and called her secretary.


    "Oliver Rubio, are you at thepany now? Go to a nearby clothing store and buy me a set of casual clothes."


    Half an hourter, Daisy was already dressed.


    Oliver Rubio processed her discharge, watching as Daisy, poised in high heels, walked toward the elevator.


    Though still quite pale, she held her back straight, looking no different than usual.


    He followed behind Daisy, hearing her ask, "What about yesterday¡¯s delegation?"


    "...They¡¯ve already left."


    Daisy paused, not exactly surprised.


    After negotiating a contract for half a month, finally reaching an agreement, it was frustrating to be hospitalized at thest minute.


    She lit a cigarette, her emotions undisturbed, only a slight frown on her brow, pondering how to deal with the shareholders.


    "Oh, Director Ginger," Oliver said suddenly, "A Swiss Tech Co. contacted us yesterday, wanting to discuss a coboration. I checked them out, and it¡¯s a legitimatepany, which should make up for this loss."


    "..." Daisy was slightly taken aback, cigarette ash falling quietly from her fingers.


    Swisspany?


    *


    Royal Lounge.


    The phone on the coffee table suddenly vibrated, Edward Stephens leaned forward, casually picked it up, and his expression instantly turned cold, muttering, "...reckless."


    "What are you looking at?"


    The young man beside him curiously leaned over, glimpsed the word "discharge," before Edward impatiently pushed his face away.


    "What little secret can¡¯t even your good buddy see?" Ryan Smith, following Edward¡¯s push,ughed as he fell back on the sofa, propping up his legs smugly, "Married men are indeed different, not ourpanions in singlehood anymore."


    Edward shoved the phone back into his pocket, leaned back on the sofa, sipped his drink, expressionless, "Keep babbling, and I¡¯ll call Gertie for you."


    Ryan¡¯s handsome face stiffened, gesturing a sign of surrender.


    Edward sneered, thoroughly unimpressed.


    "I envy you, marrying such a beauty," Ryan said earnestly, "It¡¯s Daisy Ginger, isn¡¯t it? We saw her togetherst time, those legs, that waist, that chest, tsk tsk..."


    Edward rolled his eyes and tossed him a grape, "If you came here to talk about this nonsense, you can leave now."


    Ryanughed heartily then straightened up from the sofa.


    With an air of mischief that couldn¡¯t be fully hidden, even sitting squarely, he carried a sense of nonchnce andziness.


    Crossing his legs, he lit a cigarette, speakingzily, "I came today to see how stunning your wife, whom you spent a billion and a half to marry, is ¡ª enough to warrant such extravagant spending."


    Edward sneered disdainfully, "Such a small sum needs your attention, Master Ryan?"


    "It¡¯s not unusual for you to spend on men, but spending on women is rare."


    Edward threw a tangerine at Ryan¡¯s face.


    Ryan, catching it with a grin, lifted his blue eyes to Edward, saying, "Edward, you should return to the United States."


    His voice was light, but with a hint of deeper meaning in his gentle tone.


    His stunningly handsome face suddenly dimmed with the weight of the smile.


    Edward did not look at him. He took a sip of his drink, calmly saying, "It¡¯s not the right time."


    "Yes, yes, I know you have your ns," Ryan nodded, resting his chin patiently, "but you should have some sympathy for me, shing through obstacles for you in the United States. You have no idea how tough it¡¯s been for me these years..."


    "I heard you recently made the news for spending the night with ten women?"


    Ryan: "..."


    Edward nced at him, elegantly rose from the sofa, lit a cigarette holding it between his lips, chuckling softly, "Take care of your kidneys, Ryan..."


    The tone was soft and warm.


    "If it bursts, you can¡¯t just get a new one, right?"

 Chapter 65: Picking Her Up After Work

    <h4>Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Picking Her Up After Work</h4><h4></h4>


    Ryan Smith¡¯s face was dark, his expression twisted, "Edward Stephens, what kind of nonsense are you looking at every day here!"


    Even nting one of these, talking as if his kidneys were like reforestation.


    Edward Stephens took a drag on his cigarette, calmly saying, "It¡¯s just the news being pushed to my phone, that¡¯s all."


    I don¡¯t believe you! Ryan Smith gave him a massive eye roll.


    Edward Stephens patted his friend¡¯s shoulder and waved him off, "I¡¯m off."


    "Edward."


    Ryan Smith called him once.


    Edward Stephens paused slightly.


    "I¡¯m on your side."


    ...


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t turn back, only responded faintly, "Okay."


    He didn¡¯t say anything more, stepping out.


    *


    Near the end of the workday, Daisy Ginger received a call from the front desk, stating that a Mr. Stephens was downstairs looking for her.


    Mr. Stephens, which Mr. Stephens?


    Daisy Ginger bit the pen, feeling that Mr. Stephens might be here to confront her.


    Leaving the hospital early was certainly inappropriate.


    She thought about directly apologizing to Mr. Stephenster, wondering if she¡¯d receive any forgiveness.


    Daisy Ginger finished reading through the final contract and handed it to her secretary, then told them, "Cancel the conference call in ten minutes, I¡¯m leaving work."


    She eagerly ran downstairs, and sure enough, Edward Stephens was leaning against his ck Bentley at the door, smoking.


    He stood tall and straight,zily leaning there, attracting the attention of the men and women passing by.


    Daisy Ginger ran over, hugged the man¡¯s neck, tiptoed up to look at him, and smiled with squinted eyes, "Here to pick me up from work?"


    The man stubbed out his cigarette, his brow furrowing slightly, "Let go."


    "Oh." Daisy Ginger released him, watching Edward Stephens get into the driver¡¯s seat. She opened the passenger side and sat next to him, ncing at the mild expression on his face, not understanding why he came here today.


    Surely he wasn¡¯t really here just to pick her up from work?


    She wouldn¡¯t be so self-indulgent.


    Daisy Ginger found something cheerful to share with him.


    "Edward, you know what? Yesterday I identally ended up in the hospital and couldn¡¯t seal the long-discussed contract. But today a big Swisspany contacted me to sign a six-month contract. They¡¯re investing 1.5 billion. Just makes up for yesterday. Isn¡¯t that lucky?"


    Edward Stephens looked ahead, his expression unchanged, responding with just a cold "Oh."


    Seemingly uninterested.


    Daisy Ginger felt a bit disappointed.


    She pouted a little, hugging her legs, staying silent.


    But secretly tilted her head, watching the man¡¯s profile.


    She looked at him for a while, and her spirits lifted again.


    Just thinking about Edward Stephens returning after eight years and sitting beside her was enough to make her heart soar; no one else in the world could make her feel this happy.


    Halfway through, Lady Stephens called, asking if Edward Stephens hade to pick her up for home.


    So it was Lady Stephens who arranged it...


    Daisy Ginger sighed lightly and replied, "I¡¯m sitting in Edward¡¯s car now; we¡¯re already halfway."


    "Good, good." Over there, Lady Stephens spoke softly, "Today¡¯s chef made some restorative soup for you, to nourish you a bit."


    Daisy Ginger said warmly, "Thank you, Auntie."


    Lady Stephens responded with a smile and hung up.


    Fifteen minutester, the car stopped at the Stephens¡¯ home.


    Daisy Ginger leaned over, kissed the man on the cheek, and said sweetly, "Edward, thank you for picking me up from work."


    Edward Stephens parked the car, nced at her, and spoke coldly, "Leaving the hospital early, hmm?"

 Chapter 66: So Close Yet So Far

    <h4>Chapter 66: Chapter 66: So Close Yet So Far</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens stopped the car, nced at her, and spoke coldly, "Discharged early, hmm?"


    Daisy Ginger was momentarily taken aback, fearing he was angry, she hurriedly exined, "My fever has subsided, there¡¯s nothing much to do in the hospital, and it¡¯s busy at thepany, so..."


    Edward Stephens opened the car door, got out, and interrupted Daisy Ginger¡¯s exnation.


    Daisy watched his tall figure walk towards the vi, feeling a bit flustered. She stood rooted to the spot, anxiously calling out, "Edward!"


    The man, who had taken a few steps forward, finally turned his head to nce at her. His gaze was cold, and his tone was cool and indifferent, "My mother has worried about you being hospitalized all day. If you don¡¯t care about your health, then I won¡¯t tell her next time, so she doesn¡¯t have to worry unnecessarily."


    Daisy looked at his expression; her lips moved slightly, and she finally bit her lower lip helplessly, whispering, "I¡¯m sorry, Edward... I won¡¯t make Aunt worry again."


    Edward retracted his gaze, ignored her, and walked straight into the living room. Not long after, the gentle voice of Lady Stephens came from inside the house.


    Yesterday, he took care of her because he didn¡¯t want Lady Stephens to worry. She had been pleased that he stayed with her for a few hours.


    Daisy took a deep breath until her chest and lungs felt cold, and couldn¡¯t help but let out a bitterugh.


    The feeling of unrequited affection is truly humiliating.


    Daisy stood still, taking a moment to organize her thoughts and emotions, ensuring that her expression didn¡¯t betray any unnatural emotion before she followed Edward into the house.


    "Daisy, you¡¯re here. Go wash your hands, dinner is almost ready." Lady Stephens walked over with a gentle smile, her long hair tied neatly at the back, looking warm and kind.


    Daisy called out, "Aunt," and nced at Edward sitting on the sofa. The man was loungingzily, ying on his phone, paying her no attention. Daisy felt a bit disappointed, nodded, and went to the bathroom to wash her hands.


    "Have a cup of fruit tea to warm your stomach." When she came out of the bathroom, Lady Stephens handed her a cup of hot tea with a sweet peach vor. Daisy took a sip, looked up, and smiled at Lady Stephens, "It¡¯s very good, thank you, Aunt."


    Seeing she liked it, Lady Stephens became even happier. Edward¡¯s recovery from illness had wiped away the subtle sadness in Lady Stephens¡¯ eyes. In just a few months, she seemed ten years younger and was so good-natured, gentle, and thoughtful that everyone acquainted with her couldn¡¯t help but like her.


    No wonder Edward was angry.


    To trouble a woman like Lady Stephens would make anyone feel irredeemably guilty.


    Lady Stephens didn¡¯t notice the atmosphere between Daisy and Edward, and the dinner was thoroughly enjoyable. Daisy wanted to apany Lady Stephens for a walk in the garden, but Lady Stephens kindly urged her to go back to her room to rest early.


    As she went upstairs, Edward was leaning against the doorway, enjoying the breeze. His tall figure was shrouded in ayer of hazy color under the moonlight, making him seem ethereal.


    From beginning to end, Edward never looked back at her.


    Daisy stood there, quietly watching him for a moment before slowly withdrawing her gaze and slowly heading upstairs.


    The distance between people might be just a step, but the distance between hearts can be as vast as the horizon.


    How long would it take for her to return to Edward¡¯s heart?


    *


    Chapter One. Please vote~

 Chapter 67 Edward, I really like you

    <h4>Chapter 67: Chapter 67 Edward, I really like you</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger went to the bathroom to take a bath.


    After bathing, she wrapped herself in a bathrobe, took out herptop, and started handling about a dozen contracts sent from thepany.


    She was so absorbed that she didn¡¯t hear someone knocking at the door.


    Until a pack of medicine was thrown onto herptop from behind.


    Daisy was startled, instinctively looked up, and saw a man with one hand in his pocket, looking at her impatiently.


    She stood up and called out to him: "Edward..."


    Maybe she hadn¡¯t fully recovered from the fever, her voice sounded hoarse, soft, with a bit of nasal tone, making her sound a little aggrieved.


    Edward Stephens paused mid-turn, nced back at her.


    Daisy¡¯s hair was still damp, thick and messy, hanging wetly down her back, wrapped in a loose ck bathrobe, exposing her slender neck, which appeared youthful and innocent.


    Her eyes, which had been feverish, carried a moist glow, not as sharp and clear as usual, appearing a bit misty, shrouded in ayer of fog.


    Edward¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple moved slightly, and he calmly withdrew his gaze, responding faintly: "Mm."


    Daisy pursed her lips, reached out aggrievedly, and hooked onto one of his little fingers, giving it a shake.


    "Please don¡¯t be mad at me, okay?"


    Edward: "I¡¯m not mad."


    "Then don¡¯t ignore me."


    Edward lowered his eyes, ncing at the hand she was holding.


    Maybe it¡¯s because the fever hadn¡¯t subsided, but Daisy¡¯s palm was warmer than his by quite a bit, bringing over a peculiar warmth.


    Edward shook off her hand, coldly said: "I¡¯m not."


    Daisy knew she was indeed wrong, dared not speak out, pursed her lips, and hugged him lightly.


    "I¡¯ll start eating well and take care of myself... Won¡¯t make Auntie worry anymore."


    Edward: "I¡¯m leaving."


    Daisy let go, took a step back, looked at his in, indifferent expression, and murmured disappointedly: "Oh."


    Edward walked to the door, nced at her, and said: "My mom asked me to drive you to work for the next few days, so don¡¯t mess it up for me."


    Daisy was taken aback, her misty eyes lit up in an instant, looking at him with surprise.


    Edward withdrew his gaze, turned around and left, Daisy couldn¡¯t help but run over, grabbed his hand, and stood on tiptoes to kiss him on the lips.


    Her voice was husky yet carried a touch of tender affection, "Edward, I really like you."


    Edward momentarily paused, lowered his eyes, and looked at the radiant and charming face in front of him. Possibly because she had just bathed, the moisture hadn¡¯t dissipated from her body, her cheeks faintly flushed, looking vibrant and bright, making the surrounding air lively and vivid due to her glowing presence.


    More charming than flowers.


    Edward responded reservedly and gently: "Mm."


    Daisy could barely contain her joy, couldn¡¯t help but kiss him again, wishing she could melt herselfpletely into him.


    She liked him so much that even a tiny bit of consent ted her to no end.


    Humiliated yet passionate, she waited eight years for this love.


    The man calmly patted her shoulder, saying, "Go to sleep."


    Daisy obediently let go, nodded, "You should also sleep early."


    Edward nced at her damp long hair, his brow furrowed slightly, but eventually, he said nothing, leaned over, and left the doorway.


    Daisy stood her ground, watching the man¡¯s back until he disappeared from sight, then contently withdrew her gaze. She returned to her room, sat on the bed, couldn¡¯t help but hug the quilt and roll around a few times.


    Edward is taking her to work tomorrow.


    Being sick is great, it evenes with such privileges.

 Chapter 68: Engagement

    <h4>Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Engagement</h4><h4></h4>


    The next morning, as a lingering effect of the fever, Daisy Ginger¡¯s voice waspletely hoarse.


    Lady Stephens got up early, having just finished her morning exercise. Seeing Daisying downstairs, she smiled and greeted her, "Good morning, Daisy."


    Daisy opened her mouth but couldn¡¯t make a sound. Behind Lady Stephens, Edward Stephens, who had already finished breakfast,zily nced at her and let out a scornful snicker, expressing ridicule.


    What a bastard.


    Daisy puffed her cheeks, walked downstairs, and kicked Edward in an udylike manner, chasing him into the living room.


    "Lost your voice?" Lady Stephens came over, first checking her forehead with a hand, then gently said, "I¡¯ll have the chef prepare some pear with rock sugar for you to take along today. Did you take the medicine yesterday?"


    "I did." It turned out Edward brought her the medicinest night at Lady Stephens¡¯ request. Daisy nodded and was led into the dining room by Lady Stephens.


    Having breakfast with Lady Stephens, Daisy excitedly ran out to find Edward. The man was leaning on the sofa watching the news, and when he saw here out, he nced at her, didn¡¯t say a word, and turned to go outside.


    Her voice was hoarse, unable to call out, so she just ran over and tugged at the hem of his clothes.


    Edward felt the pull on his clothing, paused, and turned his head slightly to look at her.


    Maybe due to just recovering from illness, Daisy looked particrly pale today.


    Yet her eyes were lively and bright.


    She looked up at him, her dark eyes reflecting his face, with a vibrant sparkle.


    "Edward, thank you for taking me to work," she rasped, standing on tiptoe to nt a kiss on his lips.


    Edwardzily lifted his eyes to nce at Daisy Ginger, then responded indifferently, "Mm."


    *


    At the end of the workday, Edward came as promised to pick her up.


    Daisy Ginger opened the passenger seat. Before getting in the car, she heard someone calling her from behind, "Director Ginger."


    Daisy turned around and saw Ian Linton.


    He was dressed in a suit, looking handsome and gentlemanly, without much aggressiveness, making one naturally feel good upon seeing him.


    Daisy smiled back at him, greeting him, "Ian, why are you here?"


    "Came with my father to do some inspections around here." Ian walked over and, with a smile, greeted Edward sitting in the car, "Long time no see, Edward."


    Edward nodded politely, which was considered a response.


    "I¡¯ve been wanting to find Director Ginger these days," Ian told Daisy, "Emily mentioned you haven¡¯t been hometely. I figured you must be busy with work, so I didn¡¯t want to disturb you. Since we met today, I thought I¡¯d give you the invitation as well."


    Invitation?


    Daisy Ginger was slightly taken aback, confusion surfacing in her eyes, "What invitation?"


    "Didn¡¯t Emily tell you?" Ian seemed a bit surprised too, handing over two red invitations with gold embossing, "At the beginning of next month, Emily and I are having our engagement ceremony. Director Ginger, you absolutely must honor us with your presence."


    Daisy was slightly stunned. She didn¡¯t know why, but instinctively turned to look at Edward.


    The man sat in the car, in the dim evening shadows, with no change in expression on his face, but Daisy still clearly felt Edward¡¯s aura freeze for a moment.


    Abigail Perry¡¯s actions were so quick that it even surprised her somewhat.


    Just like how she dealt with Edward back then, if she hadn¡¯t intervened, perhaps Edward would already be pushed by Abigail into marrying Emily.


    One marrying another, one about to be engaged, and thus, they would have no further connection.


    Daisy stood in the sunset, a faint smile on her lips mixed with a touch of indifference.

 Chapter 69 I Will Always Forgive You

    <h4>Chapter 69: Chapter 69 I Will Always Forgive You</h4><h4></h4>


    "I¡¯ve been hospitalized recently and haven¡¯t had the chance to go home." Daisy Ginger smiled as she epted the invitation. Her features were as delicate as a painting, and the smile on her face was so genuine that there was no trace of inappropriateness. "I will definitely attend the engagement party, Ian, and I wish you a happy marriage."


    Ian Linton nodded gracefully, his smile generous. The two of them shook hands, and Daisy stood still, watching Ian leave.


    Edward Stephens¡¯ car remained parked, and from start to finish, he didn¡¯t nce at them once.


    Daisy opened the car door, sat in the passenger seat, crossed her legs, and lit a cigarette.


    Outside the window, the traffic roared, while inside the car was as quiet as still water. Daisy suddenlyughed hoarsely, "With my sister¡¯s pace, she might really have two kids in three years. Edward, wouldn¡¯t you agree?"


    Edward gave her a nce but didn¡¯t respond, driving the car forward instead.


    Yet Daisy seemed as if she had told a funny joke, continuing tough with a low, hoarse voice.


    Her throat hadn¡¯t fully recovered, her voice wasn¡¯t as soft as it usually was, slightly hoarse and a bit unclear.


    After a while, she quieted down, with a cigarette between her fingers, resting her chin on her hand, looking out the window.


    The cool breeze came gently, and Daisy¡¯s expression gradually calmed and softened.


    The joy and excitement of the past few days seemed to fade away in Edward¡¯s current silence.


    [I seem to have be overconfident.]


    The thought surfaced clearly in her mind.


    In the days alone with Edward, she had the illusion of having monopolized this man.


    Thought their feelings were mutual.


    What a sad illusion.


    Throwing the cigarette butt into the ashtray, Daisy closed her eyes. Her fair face now turned even paler, revealing a hint of fragile exhaustion.


    She wanted to ask him, did he really like her that much?


    Did a few months together really make him fall in love with another woman?


    Is love such a cheap thing?


    But she was afraid that she couldn¡¯t help butugh when she asked.


    When you told me to wait for you, why didn¡¯t you tell me there was a risk you¡¯d fall for someone else?


    You didn¡¯t even give me a time frame, just left me waiting for eight years.


    Had I known it would end like this, I surely wouldn¡¯t... have waited for you.


    Daisy propped her arm on her knee, curling her legs, and finally couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    She asked, "You like her so much, but do you know that your encounter was just her n?"


    What life-saving benefactor, what love at first sight, was merely a y acted by Abigail Perry¡¯s arrangement.


    How could Edward, being so smart, fall for a woman who plotted against him?


    The man¡¯s voice was cold and unfeeling, as he gazed ahead and asked calmly, "What does it have to do with you?"


    All efforts to please and cherish failed with this one sentence.


    Daisy said softly, "Edward, let¡¯s stop here."


    Edward stopped the car and opened the door.


    "I¡¯ll give you half a month to get over this heartbreak." Daisy lit another cigarette, lowered her head to take a drag, and spoke with a low, hoarse, and steady voice without any emotional fluctuation. "I hope you¡¯ll fulfill your duties as a husband in the future."


    She got out of the car and stood on the gradually darkening street, watching the man¡¯s car fade from her sight.


    At the bustling street corner, she stood for a long time until the ash on her cold fingertips burned out, then slowly lowered her head and smiled lightly.


    Edward Stephens, you know very well that I¡¯ll always forgive you.


    *


    Chapter One, please vote for rmendations~

 Chapter 70: Lost More Than Gained

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chapter 70: Lost More Than Gained</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger called a cab and returned to the Ginger Residence.


    It seemed Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger had just finished eating. The mother and daughter were arm in arm,ing out, and when they saw her, they both paused slightly.


    Daisy had not been home for nearly a month.


    At this sudden encounter, they seemed like strangers, with a touch of awkward detachment.


    Daisy extinguished her cigarette, tossed her briefcase to the nearby servant, and walked straight upstairs without looking sideways.


    "Sister."


    Emily¡¯s voice softly sounded from behind.


    Daisy¡¯s footsteps halted, and she turned her head; her striking features were sharp and cold.


    Emily¡¯s demeanor carried an innate gentle softness. She lifted her eyes to look at her and said to Daisy, "I¡¯m getting engaged to Ian on the third of next month. Sister, you haven¡¯t been home these days, and I didn¡¯t dare disturb you. Please don¡¯t mind."


    Daisy stood in ce, looking at Emily for a moment.


    Looking at her slightly girlish face, her pure and innocent aura, her unclouded, candid eyes that couldn¡¯t hide emotions.


    Perhaps, for men, being with a woman like Emily would be easier.


    A delicate and soft woman always arouses a man¡¯s protective instincts.


    Edward Stephens was no exception.


    Being openly adored by eyes like these, it¡¯s no surprise he¡¯d be moved.


    She sneered quietly to herself and nodded to Emily, letting out an "Oh" as a response.


    She turned to go upstairs and heard Abigail Perry behind her, lowering her voice to Emily, "She barely acknowledges you, why bother greeting her? Silly girl!"


    Whatever Emily said next, she couldn¡¯t hear anymore. She only felt exhausted in hands and feet, and as soon as she entered her room, she threw herself onto the bed.


    The surrounding light and shadow gradually dimmed, and Daisyy there with her eyes open, staring into the void, feeling powerless for the first time in eight years.


    Even though she had gained him, it always felt like she lost more than she gained.


    Her body and heart felt empty, as though she was leaking air all over.


    She drifted off to sleep, curling into a ball, alone.


    *


    In the days that followed, Daisy didn¡¯t contact Edward again. Sometimes, when Lady Stephens called to invite her over for dinner, she used work as an excuse to decline.


    In the office, whenever Lady Stephens had various snacks and soups sent over, Daisy ate them properly and then had the food containers sent back to the Stephens family.


    Lately, Abigail Perry strutted around the house with her tail up, quite pleased with herself. Joy revives one¡¯s spirits, and she seemed years younger than usual.


    Though the Linton family¡¯s heir wasn¡¯t quite on par with the Stephens, in Banyan City, they were a prominent family too. Losing Edward and gaining Ian wasn¡¯t much of a loss, and in Banyan City, Abigail could hold her head high among the social elite.


    After all, those women obsessed with unting andpeting might not know the Stephens, but they definitely knew the Linton family.


    Sometimes when Daisy came home from work, she¡¯d catch Abigail chatting on her phone with someone, her voice loud enough to be heard throughout the Ginger Residence.


    Daisy just found it all dull.


    Emily¡¯s engagement seemed to cause no ripple in her life, except for needing to free up the evening on the third. Otherwise, she¡¯d continue her business trips, eating meals ¡ª all meaningless routines.


    In recent days, Emily hadn¡¯t spent much time at home. Word was that Ian¡¯s parents adored her, and even before marrying in, she had already charmed her future inws.


    After all, she¡¯d always been adept at social navigation.

 Chapter 71 Daisy Ginger’s Dog 1

    <h4>Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Daisy Ginger¡¯s Dog 1</h4><h4></h4>


    After all, she always knew how to handle people.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have survived school with her dorm sisters standing up for her.


    On August 3rd, Daisy Ginger finished reviewing thest document, put down her fountain pen, leaned back in her leather chair, and closed her eyes to rest for a moment.


    With the contract from the Swisspany, thepany¡¯s crisis for the second half of the year was considered resolved, and there were no more disturbances from the board, work was smooth.


    As dusk fell, darkness started to set in, Daisy Ginger opened her eyes and called out to the door: "Oliver Rubio."


    The long-waiting secretary opened the door and walked in carrying a gown: "Director Ginger, can we start the makeup?"


    Daisy Ginger nodded, stood up from the leather chair, and nodded slightly towards the few young makeup artists behind Oliver Rubio: "Thank you."


    The makeup artists, who had been waiting anxiously outside for a long time, all spected about what kind of decisive middle-aged woman Director Ginger was in the office. When they saw Daisy Ginger, who was about the same age as them and so beautiful, they were all stunned until Oliver Rubio pped his hands, snapping them back to reality, and they hurried into the room.


    "Just a casual touch-up, I¡¯m in a rush." Daisy Ginger let down her long hair which was tied up, turned her back to them, and said lightly.


    Having held her hair up all day, she now let it cascade down her back like seaweed, curling with a healthy sheen in the sunset. A female makeup artist who was arranging her hair couldn¡¯t help butpliment her, "Your hair quality is so good, how do you maintain it?"


    As soon as she said that, she realized it was inappropriate and instinctively nced at Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy Ginger, resting her chin in her hand, was lost in thought staring out the window. Her side profile was perfect, but not approachable, sitting there making people feel intimidated. Hearing thement, she nced at the girl, smiled suddenly, making her features instantly bright and gentle.


    She joked, "I just casually buy shampoo from the supermarket, probably just naturally beautiful."


    The girl seeing her smile blushed slightly, and the tense atmosphere in the office gradually became rxed and lively because of her words.


    *


    Half an hourter, Daisy Ginger walked out of the office wearing an off-shoulder beige fitted mermaid gown.


    Half an hour wasn¡¯t enough time for the makeup artists to aplish much, but she was so beautiful that just a slight touch-up made her look so dazzling that people dared not look directly.


    Oliver Rubio watched her carry her bag and gracefully walk out from the office, and couldn¡¯t help but be stunned for a few seconds, his mind went nk.


    Daisy Ginger looked down at her phone, not minding others around her, as she walked, she instructed Oliver Rubio to give those makeup artists some extra money and then told him to send tomorrow¡¯s schedule to her emailter.


    Oliver Rubio felt a bit embarrassed: the big boss was so dedicated, and here he was, an assistant, distracted by the boss¡¯s beauty, indulging instead of focusing on his duties, which was truly improper and was damaging his reputation as a top assistant.


    At 7:15, Daisy Ginger arrived at the ballroom of the five-star hotel for Emily Ginger¡¯s engagement.


    Her arrival caused quite a sensation.


    The women, upon seeing her beauty, were quite surprised and secretly wary; the young gentlemen who were about to show gantry were stunned to see their fathers fawning over her, eximing "Director Ginger" this and "Director Ginger" that, shattering their worldview.


    While Daisy Ginger was surrounded by a group of bald old men exchanging pleasantries, Ian Linton¡¯s voice came from behind.


    "Director Ginger."


    Daisy Ginger turned around, looking behind her.

 Chapter 72 Daisy Ginger’s Dog 2

    <h4>Chapter 72: Chapter 72 Daisy Ginger¡¯s Dog 2</h4><h4></h4>


    Behind them were not only Ian Linton, but also Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger, even Ian Linton¡¯s parents were present.


    The two families have had business dealings in recent years and are fairly familiar with each other.


    Daisy Ginger nodded to Ian Linton¡¯s parents before she shifted her gaze to Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger.


    Emily Ginger was wearing a snow-white long gown. She was already delicate and charming, and with her makeup, she looked even more like a lovely little princess, attracting adoration from all.


    She hooked onto Ian Linton¡¯s arm and softly called her "sister." Daisy Ginger slightly nodded in response, not intending to embarrass her.


    In such asions, it¡¯s necessary to save face; family scandals are not to be aired outside, providing others with amusement.


    Abigail Perry had been looking on with a predatory gaze, and upon seeing the response, heaved a sigh of relief. After all, Daisy Ginger had been known to be unkind to them, and if she embarrassed Emily today, they would have no choice but to swallow their pride.


    "Happy engagement." Daisy Ginger smiled at Ian Linton, "I¡¯ve asked my assistant to send over the engagement gift, hope you like it."


    Ian Linton gracefully smiled, "Director Ginger, you are too generous."


    Daisy Ginger raised her ss and took a sip of wine with him.


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, Daisy Ginger did not intend to follow them around for toasts, and using an excuse, she headed upstairs.


    As soon as she left, the men and women observing her quietly downstairs erupted into chatter.


    "So that¡¯s Daisy Ginger..."


    "She¡¯s beautiful."


    "...Back then Edward Stephens nearly died because of her?"


    "Isn¡¯t that right? I heard the kidnapper got ideas because of her looks... you get it, right?"


    The groupughed knowingly.


    Someone said, "Looking like that, if I were the kidnapper, I couldn¡¯t resist either..."


    The once sensational city-wide case had now be vulgar gossip for others.


    "Bang!" A champagne bottle suddenly flew over,nding amidst the group, sshing everywhere.


    Everyone instinctively looked up, ready to curse: "Damn, where¡¯d you put your eyes..."


    Upon seeing the tattoos spreading up the neck of the person opposite, their voices gradually quieted.


    A man, who had been hidden in the darkness eavesdropping for who knows how long, stood from a corner. His hair was cropped very short, dyed silver-white, looking somewhat out of ce in this setting; with a silver lip ring biting a cigarette, he arrogantly raised his head, casting a sharp nce over the group: "Hmm?"


    He was dressed in a suit and tie, clearly in formal attire, yet the turquoise tattoos extending to his fair neck and wrists dered his unruliness and nonconformity.


    He stood therezily, wrapped in an aura of menace, like he could rush over at any moment andy them all t on the ground.


    The group was silent with fear until the one who cursed earlier apologetically stepped forward, "Master Pond, sorry, I was blind to not recognize Mt. Tai..."


    The man gave him a sidelong nce, the cigarette between his lips curling disdainfully, and spoke tly, "Don¡¯t let me see it again."


    The person immediately agreed, shrinking away.


    Only after Ethan Pond left, did the space regain normal air cirction.


    Someone red at Ethan Pond¡¯s back, gritting their teeth disdainfully and muttered, "Just apdog of Daisy Ginger, and he dares to be so cocky!"

 Chapter 73: Reluctant

    <h4>Chapter 73: Chapter 73: Reluctant</h4><h4></h4>


    The engagement ceremony was nothing short of extravagant.


    The Linton family invited all the notable aristocrats of Banyan City, showing sincere respect and considerable face.


    Lady Stephens and Edward Stephens also arrived discreetly soon after the engagement banquet began.


    The Stephens family had a unique background and, although they were low-key in Banyan City, no one dared to gossip about them. When the two appeared at the engagement ceremony, the entire banquet hall fell silent, and the crowd instinctively parted, forming a one-meter-wide vacuum around them.


    This was the first time the two met again after their separation.


    Daisy Ginger leaned against the wall, watching Abigail Perry eagerly walk over to toast Lady Stephens and Edward.


    Daisy¡¯s gaze fell on Edward beside Lady Stephens.


    Today, he wore a blue-ck striped suit, looking refined under the bright lights, with his finely chiseled features appearing exceptionally noble and handsome, without any w.


    He didn¡¯t say a word, yet managed to capture the attention of the banquet hall.


    She saw Edward give a gift to the waiter following Abigail Perry and nced at it indifferently before retracting her gaze; their eyes didn¡¯t meet.


    Lady Stephens noticed Daisy and seemed eager to speak with her, but she was caught up by Abigail Perry and couldn¡¯t get away, showing some anxiety. Daisy took a sip of her drink, handed her ss to a waiter, and turned to walk towards the elevator.


    There seemed to be lingering gazes behind her, but Daisy did not look back.


    *


    She went upstairs to rest for a while, and when she woke up, it was already eleven o¡¯clock.


    The banquet was still in progress.


    Daisy refreshed her makeup and slowly strolled down the hotel¡¯s opulent corridor.


    The banquet had not yet reached its end, so there were few people in the corridor, making the sounds echoing through it particrly clear.


    "Edward. Thank you foring today."


    Daisy slowly stopped in her tracks, feeling a strange urge tough.


    ¡ª¡ªEmily Ginger wouldn¡¯t dare rekindle an affair with a former lover at her engagement party, would she? If Ian Linton were present, the scene might be even more interesting, who knows?


    She leaned against the wall, took out a cigarette from her purse, and listened, eavesdropping on the conversation.


    As the lighter was slowly lit, she leaned down to puff at the cigarette, Edward¡¯s indifferent voice followed.


    "What¡¯s up?"


    "I mean nothing else." Emily¡¯s voice carried a slight bitter smile, soft, with a tinge of distortion on the transmission, less gentle than before, "Lately... we haven¡¯t had much time to meet, the things you gave me, I can¡¯t bear to throw them away but also don¡¯t know how to return them to you. Today... the timing is... perfect... Edward, this is yours."


    After a brief pause, Emily¡¯s voice softly emerged again.


    "Edward, goodbye." Her voice was gentle yet solemn, like bidding farewell to something precious in life.


    On the carpet, there were faint footsteps gradually fading away, Daisy leaned against the corner, eyes closed, smoking slowly until her sight suddenly dimmed as someone stood before her.


    She opened her eyes and looked at the man¡¯s reserved face in front of her, blinking slowly.


    "Sorry... I wasn¡¯t intentionally eavesdropping." Her eyes held no hint of a smile, with a reserved and indifferent expression she calmly said, "But you two blocked my way."


    Half a month without meeting, there seemed to be nothing much to talk about.


    Daisy, feeling somewhat disinterested, extinguished the cigarette, tossing it into the trash before turning to leave.


    Edward¡¯s voice came from behind.


    "There¡¯s nothing between us."


    The voice was calm, almost a narration, stating a fact.


    Daisy slightly paused in her steps, slowly turned around, and smiled lightly at him.


    There was no need to exin anything to her; whether there was anything between him and Emily or not, it was none of Daisy¡¯s concern.


    "Afraid I¡¯llin to Ian Linton?"


    "..."


    "So, you think I¡¯m such a petty person?"


    Daisy¡¯s tone carried amusement, her bright eyes looking into his deep, dark eyes.


    She quietly watched him for a moment, suddenly stepped forward, and grabbed the man¡¯s hand.


    Though the weather wasn¡¯t cold, her fingers were icy.


    Daisy looked down, prying the item from his palm, ying with it in her hands.


    It was a radiant diamond ne, exquisite and beautiful, perfect as a gift for a girl.


    Daisy nced down at it, and softly said, "When we got married, you didn¡¯t even give me a ring."


    After saying this, she seemed amused, chuckled softly, suddenly raised her hand, and threw the valuable diamond ne into a nearby trash bin.


    ...


    Edward stood still, only calmly watching her.


    Daisy did not look at him, slowly turned around, and left from the corridor.


    *


    The engagement banquet was nearing its end.


    Daisy found her way to the buffet area, grabbed a few bottles of wine, and sat by the floor-to-ceiling window, silently drinking.


    Fireworks were exploding outside the window.


    Celebrating for the new couple here.


    Daisy rested her chin on her hand, watching for a while, and thought of a phrase: fireworks cool quickly.


    Once, someone too, on her birthday, set off fireworks across the city for her celebration.


    But now, it¡¯s like the departed has left, and the tea has gone cold...


    She drank cup after cup until four or five bottles of champagne on the table were empty, leaving her lying on the table.


    She felt an unprecedented sorrow, not quite jealousy toward Emily, just a dissatisfaction¡ªWhy?


    Why did she wait eight years, yet couldn¡¯tpare to Emily¡¯s three months?


    Why was he so distraught about his engagement to Emily when clearly his heart could only amodate her!


    Shey with her eyes closed, brow furrowed, annoyed and angry, even somewhat wronged.


    The liquor started raging, igniting from her stomach, throughout each blood vessel, faintly burning.


    Someone approached, carrying a heavy scent of tobo, looked down at her, and let out a soft sigh.


    Her body was lifted horizontally, the man¡¯s arms strong and firm, holding her steadily as he walked upstairs.


    Daisy curled up in the man¡¯s embrace, frowned, eyes closed, face full of agony, uttered faint, cat-like whimpering sounds.


    Then the man held her even tighter.


    Edward apanied his mother through the crowd towards the exit.


    The banquet was over, guests were satisfied, Lady Stephens wore a smile, seemingly pleased with Emily and Ian¡¯s marriage.


    "But where has Daisy gone?" Lady Stephensined softly, "You had a fight didn¡¯t you? Regardless of fault, you must apologize, as a man you must take responsibility!"


    Edward frowned, said coolly, "No."


    "What do you mean, no?" Lady Stephens admonished, "I¡¯m telling you to bring her back!"


    Edward looked up, just in time to see Daisy being lifted from a chair by a tall figure, carried towards the elevator.


    His gazended on the man¡¯s exposed tattoo on his slender neck, his brow subtly furrowed, he let go of Lady Stephens¡¯ arm and hurriedly followed the man¡¯s steps.


    *


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 Chapter 74: Do you think you’re the only one who is her childhood friend?

    <h4>Chapter 74: Chapter 74: Do you think you¡¯re the only one who is her childhood friend?</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens walked quickly, but ultimately still couldn¡¯t catch the elevator.


    He nced at the floor where the man had stopped, and pressed the button for the adjacent elevator.


    Inside the elevator, he lightly furrowed his brow, unusually a bit agitated. Lady Stephens called him, but he directly declined the call.


    As soon as he stepped out of the elevator, he saw that unfamiliar man carrying Daisy Ginger into a hotel room.


    Edward Stephens frowned, and under the lighting, his calm face revealed a vague chill.


    With a sullen expression, he walked over, knocked on the door, and intended to break in if no one opened it.


    A few secondster, someone came over and opened the door.


    Edward Stevens quickly swept his gaze inside the room. Daisy, dressed in a formal gown, clothes intact, was lying on the bed unconscious.


    Unclear whether feeling hidden anger or relief, he withdrew his gaze, looked at the young man before him with a frown, and asked in a deep voice: "You..."


    The man suddenly raised his hand and pushed him, stepping out of the room as if not wanting Daisy to hear, deliberately closing the door.


    "Edward Stephens," he stood before him indifferently, voice cold and hoarse, calling his name with contemptuous and defiant expression, "You think you¡¯re the only one who¡¯s her childhood friend?"


    "..." Edward was momentarily taken aback, the words he was about to say blocked by the man¡¯s words. He looked at the other person, and coldly said, "You¡¯ve got the wrong person."


    Ethan Pond licked his lip ring, couldn¡¯t help butugh in anger, looking at Edward¡¯s cold, unfeeling expression under the light, sarcastically said: "You¡¯re not called Edward Stephens, you¡¯re called David Stephens?"


    Edward gave him an indifferent nce, then calmly reached for the hotel room¡¯s door handle, with an icy warning, "Whatever your rtionship with Daisy is, but she¡¯s my wife now."


    He pushed open the door, walked in with a sullen face.


    Only one wallmp was lit in the hotel room.


    Dim and obscure.


    Daisyy on the bed, sleeping soundly, her darkshes casting dense shadows against her fair skin in a fan shape, looking as though she was at peace with the world.


    He nced at her several times, exhaled softly, walked to the sofa nearby, and made a call to Lady Stephens.


    On the other end, Lady Stephens quickly answered.


    She seemed to still be waiting at the hotel entrance, the sound from her phone a bit noisy, "Edward, where did you run off to? Did something happen?"


    "Nothing." He replied calmly, "You head back first, don¡¯t wait for me."


    "What about you?"


    "Daisy got drunk." He nced at the drunken woman, "I¡¯m here keeping an eye on her."


    "You ran into Daisy?" Lady Stephens¡¯ voice sounded a bit delighted, sheughed, "Then take good care of her, I¡¯ll head home first. If anythinges up, call me."


    Edward responded with a faint "Hmm," hung up the phone, leaned on the sofa, crossing his legs while looking at Daisy.


    He then frowned, lowered his head, and lit a cigarette.


    This damned woman, still daring to drink herself like this here, not afraid of being picked up and taken to a small grove.


    *


    Daisy was not sleeping peacefully.


    Vaguely waking up, her throat unbearably dry, she heard someone moving nearby, and hazily called out: "Water..."


    Soon, someone came over, helped her up from the bed, and pressed a warm ceramic cup to her lips. She instinctively opened her mouth, and a strange-tasting warm water poured into her mouth.


    Daisy immediately spat all the water out.

 Chapter 75: Such a Beauty

    <h4>Chapter 75: Chapter 75: Such a Beauty</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger hesitated not at all and threw up the water.


    "Tastes awful..." she mumbled, frowning inint.


    Edward Stephens, who was sshed with the sober-up tea: "..."


    He nced at Daisy Ginger, who was too drunk to know better yet still picky, feeling an urge to toss her back onto the bed.


    He took a deep breath, went to the bathroom to wash his hands, and poured her a cup of warm water.


    This time, she drank it obediently.


    Edward Stephens tucked her back into the covers, gave her a look, then walked to the window, pulling the curtain aside to gaze at the dazzling night of Banyan City.


    He couldn¡¯t fathom why such a lovely evening was spent with Daisy Ginger, this drunken woman.


    He stood for a moment, then heard Daisy Ginger whining from the bed.


    He nced at her and heard herin it was hot.


    Daisy Ginger was wearing a fitted fishtail dress, beautiful indeed, but at this moment, clearly bing a prisoner of her own choices.


    The fabric clung to her, preventing any airflow, and the alcohol raised her body temperature, leaving her drenched in sweat in no time.


    Edward initially intended not to care for her, until he saw her cheeks getting redder and feared she might truly break out in a fever, then hesitated to walk over, contemting whether to help her take off the evening dress.


    Daisy Ginger was drunk, but her drunken demeanor was quite good, neither loud nor aggressive, only mildly ufortable, her soft hums sounding somewhat aggrieved, making her hard to ignore.


    At this moment, shey on the bed, rubbing her face against the cool satin, her dark hair fanned out across the bed.


    Under the dim lights, the room was filled with the lingering scent of champagne, a beauty such as this, lying in such a manner, Edward Stephens, being a normal man, couldn¡¯t possiblyck any impulse.


    Daisy Ginger was indeed beautiful, overly radiant and somewhat aggressive, yet pleasing to the eye, the type to capture attention immediately. Otherwise, Ryan Smith, a yboy ustomed to beauty of all kinds, wouldn¡¯t have been so smitten the first time he saw her.


    Unfortunately, Daisy Ginger, although a blooming flower, was a deadly one, likely lethal if consumed recklessly.


    Edward Stephens stood by the bed, rarely feeling conflicted.


    He feared he might lose control and do something he¡¯d regret for a lifetime...


    Daisy Ginger was hot to the point of dizziness, the dress too snug for her to manage to slide off by herself, hazily calling the man standing nearby, "Edward..."


    Edward Stephens acknowledged, "Mm."


    She opened her eyes, her bewildered gazended on Edward Stephens, calling out in distress, "I¡¯m hot."


    She¡¯s been hot for quite a while, why hadn¡¯t he helped her yet!


    Edward Stephens stood by the bed, sighed softly, and finally reached out to lift her up from the bed.


    His body temperature was lower than hers, and as soon as Daisy Gingernded in his hands, she instinctively burrowed into his arms, rubbing her face against him, the faint fragrance of woman mingled with her alcoholic breath, enveloping his senses, Edward Stephens, no matter howposed, could not help but feel somewhat ignited by her teasing.


    He pressed down her wandering hands, looked at her with deep eyes, "Don¡¯t move."


    He helped her pull down the zipper of the evening dress.


    The fitted dress slid from her shoulders, atst, Daisy Ginger settled down. She sat in his embrace, clinging to his shoulders, gazing at him dizzily. Her loose long hair resembling lush seaweed, draping over her slender shoulders and face, her delicate little face, bearing a bewildered expression,cking its usual domineering air, even appearing somewhat innocent and pure, captivating one¡¯s soul in an instant.


    Edward Stephens¡¯ gaze fell upon her face, momentarily taken aback, seeing Daisy Ginger slowly lean her face closer, he did not refuse.


    "Ugh¡ª"


    *


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 Chapter 76: Damn, So Fierce!

    <h4>Chapter 76: Chapter 76: Damn, So Fierce!</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger had afortable sleep.


    When she woke up, it was just dawning.


    The curtains were pulled open, and the morning breeze, carrying a hint of moisture, blew in. The sunrise was half-visible, casting an indistinct and hazy light.


    She stretchedzily in the quilt, feeling the smooth fabric against her skin, and only then did she realize something was off.


    She felt around and discovered she wasn¡¯t wearing a stitch of clothing...


    Herst memory was of herself furiously cursing Edward Stephens at the table.


    Daisy abruptly sat up in bed, instinctively looking around.


    The dim light and shadows were enough for her to see the hotel room clearly.


    A five-star hotel, with decor that wasmercial yet orderly. Not far away, a beige fabric sofa held a sleeping person.


    The man, with long arms and legs, seemed quite crowded on the one-meter-long sofa. His limbs had nowhere to go, and most of his long legs were sticking out.


    His blue-ck striped suit had vanished, leaving him in just a simple white shirt. His face, caught in the light and shadow, had brows slightly furrowed, as if something was deeply bothering him.


    Strip the wife naked and tuck her into bed, then sleep on the sofa¡ªwhat kind of mentality is that, what kind of pervert?


    Daisy leaned against the headboard, pondering Edward¡¯s motives for such behavior, realizing she couldn¡¯t fathom his thought processes at all.


    She lifted the quilt, tiptoed out of bed, took a clean robe from the closet, wrapped it around herself, then walked barefoot over and squatted next to Edward¡¯s sofa.


    "Edward Stephens," she called his name, "wake up."


    The man kept his eyes closed, still asleep, ignoring her.


    "Edward Stephens, Edward Stephens, Edward Stephens."


    She called out by his ear.


    "..." The man pretending to be dead slowly opened his jet-ck eyes, her face reflected in his deep gaze, a hint of menace beneath his eyes.


    Daisy, wearing an oversized robe, clutched thepels with her hands, revealing only an innocent fair face, her long hair cascading like seaweed, looking cute and petite.


    She pouted and said to the man, "I¡¯m hungry."


    Edward calmly closed his eyes, "Jump off the roof, you won¡¯t be hungry anymore."


    Daisy: "..."


    Why so harsh this early in the morning?


    She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, then said, "Could you get me some breakfast?"


    The man kept his eyes closed, unmoved.


    "...?" Daisy looked at him, slightly puzzled.


    Didn¡¯t this trick work well before? Howe he¡¯s immune now?


    Daisy squatted in front of him, curiously asked, "Did you bring me back yesterday?"


    "No."


    "If it wasn¡¯t you, then who was it?"


    The man, eyes still shut, replied indifferently, "I don¡¯t know."


    Daisy considered whether he was telling the truth and decided not to pursue it. Seeing that he really wasn¡¯t nning to take care of her even while lying down, she puffed up her cheeks and climbed onto him.


    The man, who had been ignoring the situation, finally opened his eyes. His gazended on Daisy, who was straddling his waist with an expectant look on her face, "Get off."


    Damn it, so fierce!


    Did he swallow a bomb?


    Daisy said, "I¡¯m hungry. I didn¡¯t eat yesterday. Now I¡¯m so hungry, I feel like vomiting..."


    Before she finished her sentence, Edward had grabbed her by the neck and lifted her off his waist. The world spun, and she was tossed onto the sofa where he had been lying.


    Sitting on the sofa, Daisy was a bit baffled, not understanding why Edward had such a big reaction.


    "..." The man stood in front of her, frowning, his long fingers slowly buttoning his shirt, asionally ncing at her, his eyes full of irritation and impatience.


    *


    Please vote for rmendations

 Chapter 77: Yikes, So Disgusting

    <h4>Chapter 77: Chapter 77: Yikes, So Disgusting</h4><h4></h4>


    "..." The man stood in front of her, furrowing his brows, his long fingers slowly fastening the buttons, asionally ncing at her, eyes filled with irritation and impatience.


    As if she were some kind of troublemaker.


    Daisy Ginger felt a bit unwilling to ept it.


    She sat on the sofa hugging her legs, watching as the man fastened the buttons of his shirt one by one.


    In the dim hotel suite, waking up from a hangover, the woman wearing only a bathrobe while the man stood by the bed getting dressed, such an evocative scene, but Daisy Ginger knew that Edward Stephens didn¡¯t do anything to herst night.


    "Stripped naked and still not interested in you," indeed.


    She pouted, deliberately taunting him, "Edward Stephens, what did you do to mest night?"


    The man was already dressed neatly and was about to walk out. Upon hearing her, he turned his head slightly to give her a cold nce and spoke icily, "You should think about what you did to mest night."


    The man¡¯s words left Daisy Ginger slightly stunned, yet before she could process her emotions, Edward Stephens had already opened the door and left the room.


    Daisy Ginger hugged her legs, looking at his back, disdainfully curling her lips.


    Heh, a drunk like her, what could she possibly do to him?


    She sat on the sofa for a while, thenzily stood up, nning to take a shower.


    As soon as she opened the door, she saw Edward Stephens¡¯ ck and blue striped suit on the bathroom floor, along with the evening gown she worest night.


    The two pieces of clothing looked as if they had been violently stripped off someone, not only wrinkled but also emanating a certain dreadful odor.


    Daisy Ginger just took one look and felt her eyes sting.


    Ew, how disgusting...


    She quietly closed the door, sitting back on the sofa in the room with an unchanged expression.


    Looking at yesterday night, it seemed like she did something to Edward Stephens, and it went quite overboard...


    No wonder, bright and early, this guy¡¯s eyes could kill...


    *


    Half an hourter, Edward Stephens returned with a package of clothes and breakfast.


    He tossed the clothes onto the bed and said to Daisy Ginger, "After eating, apany me home."


    "...What for?" Daisy Ginger squatted on the sofa, unwrapping the stic bag, and upon hearing this, warily nced at Edward Stephens. Was he going to take her home for a beating?


    Edward Stephens sat across from her, eating his own breakfast with a calm expression.


    "My mother wants to see you."


    "Oh..." Daisy Ginger responded, her tone tepid.


    Last night, Lady Stephens looked at her with that expression, appearing very much like she wanted to see her, but she really wasn¡¯t in the mood to chat andugh with her, so she deliberately avoided her.


    Thinking about it now, she indeed felt a bit guilty towards Lady Stephens.


    Her and Edward Stephens¡¯ messy affairs made Lady Stephens ufortable, but what did it really have to do with her?


    "Did you tell your mom why we¡¯re in a cold war?"


    Edward Stephens paused in his eating, looking up at her.


    His deep eyes concealed emotions, his handsome and noble face calm andposed.


    "It¡¯s fine if you didn¡¯t tell her, as long as you remember your identity from now on." Daisy Ginger held the soy milk in her hand, leaned against the sofa, and smiled at him, "Edward Stephens, you¡¯re a married man now, make sure you don¡¯t cheat during marriage."


    "..."


    Sheughed quite happily.


    "Forcing you to marry me could only be considered a moral failure, but if you get involved with Emily Ginger again in the future, you¡¯ll be legally responsible."


    Edward Stephens threw the food in his hand into the trash can, nced at her, and said, "Just mind your own business."


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 Chapter 78: The Only Consolation

    <h4>Chapter 78: Chapter 78: The Only Constion</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger realized that she could now ept the fact that Edward Stephens liked Emily Ginger with a calm heart.


    What was once unbelievable, now talking about it, felt quite in.


    The capacity of human eptance can indeed be astonishing.


    She ate her fill, stood up from the sofa, and nodded towards Edward Stephens: "I want to take another nap. I¡¯ll call you when I wake up."


    Edward didn¡¯t say anything, just wiped his hands in a slow and deliberate manner. Daisy knew he heard her and didn¡¯t say anything further, then lifted the nket and went back to sleep.


    She felt a bit tired facing Edward, but this little bit of tiredness couldn¡¯t shake her strong obsession of eight years.


    *


    Daisy took another nap.


    This napsted until nearly nine in the morning.


    She sent a text message to Oliver Rubio, telling him she was taking a leave today, then called Edward Stephens toe pick her up.


    Half an hourter, she was all washed and dressed.


    The dress Edward bought for her was one size too big; she had to borrow ady¡¯s belt from a waitress.


    This man didn¡¯t even know her dress size.


    She had once imagined various futures with Edward, but never one like this.


    She knew this wasn¡¯t the marriage she wanted, but it seemed like it was already toote.


    For instance, she didn¡¯t always want to argue with him, it¡¯s just that she no longer knew how to talk to him properly.


    However, as long as she thought about it, she was still young and had time to endure with Edward, endure for decades. Compared to the eight years of her life without him, the future with long years together didn¡¯t seem all that significant.


    Thinking this way made her restless heart calm down significantly.


    She still had enough time to make Edward fall in love with her again.


    That was the only thing worth being thankful for.


    *


    Lady Stephens seemed to think that Edward had mistreated her, so this time back, she was quite attentive.


    Not only did she personally peel an apple for her, but she also helped scold Edward openly and secretly.


    Edward at first listened by the side, and finally couldn¡¯t help it, went upstairs with a dark face.


    "Auntie," Daisy finally spoke when Edward left, smiling, "Edward and I are fine."


    Lady Stephens was peeling an orange for her, and upon hearing this, paused for a moment, "Oh, you¡¯re fine?"


    "We¡¯re fine." Daisy shook her head, "Just a little misunderstanding, it¡¯s already resolved."


    "Resolved is good, resolved is good." Lady Stephens seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, a gentle smile appearing on her face, "Auntie almost dragged Edward to yourpany to apologize to you."


    Daisy epted the orange Lady Stephens peeled, shared half with her, her eyes crinkling with a smile: "There¡¯s really nothing wrong."


    After reassuring Lady Stephens, Daisy picked a yellow-orange tangerine from the fruit te and leisurely went upstairs.


    "Edward."


    Edward was standing by the window of his bedroom door, smoking, and turned his head to look at her when he heard her calling.


    Daisy walked over, wrapped her arms around his neck, and smiled: "Auntie asked me to stay tonight."


    Edward¡¯s response was indifferent: "Then stay."


    She watched him face-to-face for a while, then stuffed a wedge of tangerine into his mouth.


    "Edward Stephens, do you still remember there¡¯s something I asked you to agree to?"


    Edward looked at her face, slowly chewed the tangerine, and calmly said: "I don¡¯t remember."


    Daisy said: "Whether you remember or not, since you¡¯ve eaten my tangerine, you have to agree."


    Edward: "..."


    He really wanted to spit it out and return it to her.

 Chapter 79: Daily Life of Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 79: Chapter 79: Daily Life of Mother-inw and Daughter-inw</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger looked at his expression, seemingly amused, and let out a chuckle.


    She wrapped her arms around his neck, gave his thin lips a peck, and softly said, "On the 27th of this month, will youe with me to see the sea?"


    Edward Stephens pulled her out from his embrace, took a wedge of tangerine from her hand, and slowly said, "We¡¯ll see."


    Daisy pouted, nced at his face again, and, not knowing what she thought of, her lips curled up slightly, "I¡¯ll take that as a yes then."


    She seemed to have reached some sort of decision on her own, held his hand, gave him all the remaining tangerines, and then happily turned and walked away.


    Edward leaned against the window, nced at Daisy¡¯s back, retracted his gaze, and let out a light snort.


    So capricious, like a little child.


    *


    That day, Daisy didn¡¯t go to work and stayed with Lady Stephens at the Stephens family home.


    Lady Stephens had recently taken up baking at home.


    As a wealthydy, she needed to have at least some talent to show off when she was out.


    Lady Stephens loved cooking, but cooking didn¡¯t love her back. She even hired a specialized baking teacher to teach her, yet what she baked still turned out to be a pile of "kitchen waste."


    When Edward came back in the afternoon, he saw Daisy wearing an apron, enthusiastically carrying out a te of colorful butterfly pastries from the kitchen. When she saw him, she greeted him, "Edward!"


    Edward took off his trench coat and handed it to the servant, responding lightly, "Hmm."


    "Try this."


    She handed over a piece of green butterfly pastry.


    Edward furrowed his brow slightly, hesitated for once, and didn¡¯t open his mouth.


    "I made it, it¡¯s really good," Daisy blinked, with a bit of flour on her face and hair, looking a bit silly. "Maybe I have a talent for cooking."


    Edward nced at her, lowered his head, and took a small bite from the piece she was holding, tasted it with the tip of his tongue.


    Better than his mom¡¯s... certainly much better.


    Edward gave a modestpliment, "Not bad."


    Daisy pouted, seemingly dissatisfied, "Just ¡¯not bad¡¯?"


    Edward nced at her, "Too much sugar."


    "It¡¯s not good if you don¡¯t add sugar."


    Anyway, he didn¡¯t like it. Edward walked over to the sofa.


    Lady Stephens came out of the kitchen.


    She was much more exaggerated than Daisy.


    Not only was her face and hair covered in flour, but her clothes were all white too.


    Edward was used to it; as long as she didn¡¯t force him to eat that pile of trash, he would pretend he didn¡¯t see it even if she blew up the kitchen.


    Lady Stephens seemed to have had a great time today withpany,ing out with a cheerful smile, wiping her face while praising Daisy to Edward, "Edward, Daisy is amazing, it¡¯s her first time baking and everything¡¯s well-shaped. Even Ms. Annie praised her."


    Edward, holding the remote control, was flipping through the news. Hearing this, he nced at Daisy.


    She seemed to be very proud of herself, lifting her chin at him boastfully.


    Edward retracted his gaze and said indifferently to his mother, "Mom, it¡¯s because you¡¯re too lousy."


    Anyone could seed at this with guidance.


    Lady Stephens once learned flower arrangement too.


    Lately, she drove the florist teacher to resign out of frustration.


    He¡¯s just waiting to see when Ms. Annie will get frustrated enough to quit due to his mother.


    A person like his mom, not adept in any housework or agriculture, learning nothing, doing nothing, can only stay home and be a pampered housewife.


    Lady Stephens was obviously unaware of what was in her son¡¯s mind, still over there praising Daisy¡¯s excellent cooking skills. Edward was blushing with embarrassment for Daisy, while Daisy stood there with a calm face, epting Lady Stephens¡¯ praise, as if she didn¡¯t even know the meaning of the word modesty.


    These two characters...


    Edward rolled his eyes.


    *


    Please vote for a rmendation~

 Chapter 80: When to Have a Child

    <h4>Chapter 80: Chapter 80: When to Have a Child</h4><h4></h4>


    After dinner, Daisy Ginger apanied Lady Stephens for a walk in the small garden, then took an orange from the fridge and brought it into Edward Stephens¡¯ bedroom.


    The man had already bathed, was wearing a ck bathrobe, and was leaning against the headboard ying on hisputer. When he saw her enter, he didn¡¯t even lift his head.


    "Edward."


    She called out to him and sat beside him.


    "I¡¯m going to sleep with you tonight."


    The man didn¡¯t move his gaze, speaking in a calm tone: "As you wish."


    "By the way," Daisy Ginger, dangling her feet, eating the orange, said, "Auntie just asked me when we n to have a child."


    "..." This time, Edward Stephens finally looked up at her. He furrowed his brows slightly and said to Daisy Ginger, "My mom enjoys saying nonsense, don¡¯t mind her."


    Daisy Ginger bit a segment of the orange,y back in the man¡¯s arms, pressing down hisptop, "When Ian Linton has two kids in three years, won¡¯t you be jealous?"


    Edward Stephens raised his hand, tore off an orange segment from her hand, and asked tly, "Do you want children?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s beautiful eyes nced at him, "Of course not now." Later on... will she and Edward Stephens have their own children?


    For some reason, a faint confusion emerged in her heart.


    Being with Edward Stephens felt like a castle in the air, happiness tinged with a hint of illusion, always feeling like this joy wouldn¡¯tst long.


    Perhaps it was obtained too arduously, which is why it feels so unsettling.


    Daisy Ginger was quiet for a moment, leaning in Edward Stephens¡¯ arms while quietly finishing the orange, then went to the bathroom for a bath.


    She slipped into the man¡¯s bed, lying side by side with him, turned her body, and embraced Edward Stephens¡¯ waist.


    Edward Stephens had already put down theptop, picked up a German original book to read, felt Daisy Ginger nestle into his arms, and nced at her.


    She had just showered, wearing short-sleeve pajamas, her body carrying the dampness of water and the fragrance of the bath. Sweet and milky in scent.


    She lifted her head from his arms and called out to him: "Edward."


    Edward Stephens calmly said, "Sleep."


    "Have you ever slept with Emily Ginger?"


    Edward Stephens¡¯ gaze remained on the book, voice t: "I haven¡¯t progressed that far with her."


    "Oh." This answer pleased her a bit, she rubbed her face against his chest, snuggling up, haughtily said, "Then in the future, you can only sleep with me."


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t respond to her.


    She wasn¡¯t too settled.


    After lying for a while, she began to speak again.


    "Do you know what day it is on the 27th of this month?"


    Edward Stephens looked at the book, indifferent, "What day?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger buried her face in his chest, quiet for a moment, inhaling the faint tobo aroma on him, "I¡¯ll tell you then."


    Edward Stephens patted her back, indicating for her to be quiet and go to sleep; he still had to read.


    "You muste that day, okay?"


    "Got it."


    Having gained his promise, she seemed finally satisfied, the corners of her lips curved up, and she held him, closing her eyes.


    This marriage wasn¡¯t quite what she had imagined, but holding this man in her arms, drawing warmth from him, listening to his heartbeat, letting their breaths mingle. Somehow, it felt akin to the happiness she hoped for.


    Edward Stephens, do you know, after the age of sixteen, every wish I made has been about you.


    I¡¯m waiting for you toe back and marry me.


    You promised me.


    If I didn¡¯t know that you never lie to me, I wouldn¡¯t be waiting for you.

 Chapter 81: Abigail Perry hit her?

    <h4>Chapter 81: Chapter 81: Abigail Perry hit her?</h4><h4></h4>


    That day, after finishing dinner at the Western restaurant, Edward Stephens drove her home.


    The car slowly stopped in front of her house, Edward opened the door and said to her, "Go ahead."


    Daisy Ginger nced at his face and pouted, "Remember to think of me when you get back."


    Edward lifted his chin, "Get out quickly."


    "Then give me a kiss."


    Even getting out of the car is troublesome. Edward clicked his tongue lightly.


    Daisy saw his impatience, reached out to hug his neck, leaned in, and warned, "No rolling your eyes."


    Edward paused, and upon hearing her words, finally smiled,zily leaning back in the seat, looking at Daisy, "Are you getting out or not?"


    Daisy looked at him, blinked innocently, "One kiss and I¡¯ll get out."


    Edward was unmoved.


    Daisy, seeing him act this way, lowered her head and gently bit his lower lip.


    Then she lifted her head and looked at him.


    Her expression was slightly smug, as if to say, what can you do about me?


    With this childish demeanor, Edward figured she couldn¡¯t be more than thirteen years old at heart.


    He patted her hip, indicating she should get off, "If you don¡¯t get out, you¡¯reing back to the Stephens family with me tonight."


    "Hmph." Daisy had toe back today because there were some documents she had to handle at home; the Stephens family housecked her office, making it inconvenient to deal with paperwork. Unhappy, she hugged his neck and mumbled, "Stingy."


    He wouldn¡¯t even give her a kiss, she¡¯d never seen such a stingy man.


    "I won¡¯t talk to you tonight." Daisy let him go, her tone sounding quite unhappy, with her mouth turned down, as if he¡¯dmitted some outrageous offense.


    Edward couldn¡¯t understand why Daisy was so obsessed with hugging and kissing, demanding such affection despite not being that young, acting like a kitten, always wanting to be coddled.


    He watched Daisy get out of the car, then turned the car around, ready to drive away, when he heard Daisy call, "Edward."


    He had to release the gas pedal and turned his head to look over.


    Daisy stood by his car window, with the setting sun, the warm yellow light casting onto her, making her features bloom radiantly like a fine piece of artwork crafted by a painter.


    Stunningly beautiful.


    She lowered her head, left a soft kiss on his lips, then straightened up, whispering to him, "See you tomorrow."


    The sunlight fell into her eyes, tinting her clear eyes a warm amber color.


    She really was like a cat.


    Moody and unpredictable.


    With these thoughts in mind, Edward raised his hand, ruffled her hair, and then drove away.


    *


    Daisy was in a good mood today.


    Only after Edward left did she start walking towards the Ginger Residence.


    In the hall, Abigail Perry¡¯s loud voice could be heard.


    "Emily, what nonsense are you talking about? It¡¯s normal for couples to have their ups and downs and arguments, don¡¯t always say such willful things!"


    Daisy paused in her steps.


    Emily Ginger came back tonight?


    Since Emily Ginger got engaged to Ian Linton, she had moved from the Ginger Residence to the Linton family home. It was said that the entire Linton family adored their future daughter-inw, and they took great care of her.


    Because Emily was doing well, Abigail had be quite proud and prominent in the high society circle, gaining status by virtue of her daughter¡¯s sess.


    Daisy didn¡¯t know what Emily had said, but suddenly Abigail¡¯s voice turned sharp as she yelled, "Shut up!"


    Even Daisy had never heard Abigail use such a tone with Emily before. She was slightly startled and instinctively walked over to the hall, only to see Emily holding her face in disbelief as she looked at Abigail.


    Abigail hit her?

 Chapter 82 Her Ambition

    <h4>Chapter 82: Chapter 82 Her Ambition</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger paused, looking at the scene in the hall, uncertain whether she should enter or not.


    After all, to her, Emily Ginger and Abigail Perry were outsiders, only slightly more familiar than strangers.


    Their arguments and squabbles were just entertainment to her.


    Abigail Perry, with her back to Daisy, hadn¡¯t noticed here in. She pointed at Emily Ginger¡¯s nose, saying, "Hurry up and go upstairs to tidy up. Ian wille to pick you upter. If the Linton family sees you like this, it¡¯ll be so embarrassing!"


    These words were truly harsh, and Daisy Ginger saw Emily Ginger, whose eyes hadn¡¯t shed tears, suddenly tear up from the sting of them. She looked away, wiped her tears, and choked up as she turned to go upstairs.


    "Honestly, so grown up, yet still so willful..."


    After Emily Ginger left, Abigail Perry swore under her breath, turned around, and upon lifting her eyes saw Daisy Ginger standing at the doorway, clearly stunned for a moment with her expression momentarily stiffening.


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t look at her. She stepped inside, addressing the servant, "Go make me a cup of coffee."


    The servant, who had been standing silently on the side, was relieved, like a prisoner freed, and quickly walked away.


    Daisy Ginger leisurely walked to the sofa and sat down, kicked off her high heels, and without looking at Abigail Perry, spoke casually, "Auntie Perry, among the women I¡¯ve seen growing up, your voice is the loudest."


    Her tone was neither cold nor warm, but full of sarcasm.


    Upon hearing this, Abigail Perry¡¯s expression subtly twisted for a moment, her face instantly darkening.


    All these years, Abigail Perry¡¯s food, clothing, and lifestyle wereparable to those of a wealthydy, and she even hired an etiquette coach to teach her how to conduct herself.


    But a rural woman, no matter how much she disguised herself, could never emte the innate grace of someone like Lady Stephens, raised in privilege since childhood.


    In the circles of the upper-ss women, Abigail Perry was discriminated against, constantly seeking ways to fit in, but her identity and demeanor were invariably out of ce.


    Emily Ginger was her ambition, not only her daughter but also a stepping stone for her ascent.


    Only when Emily Ginger marries well can she hold her head high and feel proud, making those women who looked down on her secretly envious and jealous.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s words, though light, were more provoking than any other words, as if stripping her bare and pping her hard, changing Abigail Perry¡¯splexion.


    Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t afraid of her, allowing Abigail Perry to re at her darkly while she took the coffee the servant handed over, casually flipping through a magazine on the sofa.


    Ten minutester, Ian Linton drove up, somewhat hurriedly.


    It had rained lightly at some point outside, and Ian hadn¡¯t used an umbre. As he entered, his jade-like handsome face had a slight hint of moisture. His gaze swept through the hall, seeing Daisy Ginger sitting on the sofa, momentarily surprised, he called out to her: "Director Ginger, you¡¯re at home today?"


    Daisy Ginger leaned back on the sofa, crossing her slender, straight legs, appearing slightlyzy, and looked up to smile at him, "Mm, I haven¡¯t been home for a long time, came back to stay for a night. Looking for Emily Ginger?"


    Ian¡¯s gaze settled on her, seemingly hesitating for a moment before quickly returning to his senses, nodding politely, "I had a bit of a disagreement with Emily... I¡¯m here to take her home."


    "Ian, you¡¯re here?"


    Abigail Perry¡¯s voice came from the stairs, and Daisy Ginger turned her head, seeing Abigail Perry holding Emily Ginger¡¯s hand anding down with a broad smile.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s demeanor had returned to normal, but she seemed somewhat silent, letting Abigail Perry lead her without saying a word.

 Chapter 83: "Have you had enough?!

    <h4>Chapter 83: Chapter 83: "Have you had enough?!</h4><h4></h4>


    "You two lovebirds should hurry home, and don¡¯t argue anymore." Abigail Perry walked over enthusiastically, her attitude towards Ian Linton verging on ttery, and she smiled, "I¡¯ve already talked to Emily, you should make nice with her too. What problem between a married couple can¡¯t be solved face to face, to the point you have to take it home?" Thest few words were implied for Emily Ginger to hear.


    Ian Linton walked over, gently took Emily Ginger¡¯s hand, and pulled her into his embrace. Looking at her somewhat pale and haggard face, he seemed a bit heartbroken. Tenderly, he raised his hand to caress Emily¡¯s cheek: "Emily, it was my fault,e home with me, okay?"


    Emily Ginger¡¯s expression was listless until Ian¡¯s hand touched her face. She seemed a bit disgusted, and she abruptly raised her hand to brush Ian¡¯s fingers away.


    "..."


    Ian Linton¡¯s actions paused, he looked at her face, then sighed lightly, looking somewhat troubled and helpless.


    Seeing the awkward atmosphere, Abigail hurried to smooth things over, "Ian, you¡¯re all wet, do you want to change into a different coat before you go? Emily, go upstairs and get Ian¡¯s ck trench coat, quickly."


    Finishing, she pulled Emily away without giving her a chance to refuse.


    Daisy Ginger observed her expression, probably thinking Abigail was going to give Emily a talking-to.


    Daisy had no interest in couple arguments. As she got up from the sofa nning to leave, Ian Linton came over and said to her, "Director Ginger, sorry you had to see this."


    He had been caught in the rain,pletely soaked, his hair dripping wet. This usually neat and refined young man seemed a bit bedraggled at the moment.


    Daisy handed him a tissue, smiling, "It¡¯s nothing, arguments are inevitable between two people together."


    Ian took the tissue, thanked her, and wiped the rain off his face.


    He didn¡¯t seem in a rush to leave, and with Emily and Abigail noting down yet, he sat down and politely asked Daisy several work-rted questions.


    Daisy had no ill feelings toward Ian. Seeing him ask sincerely, she sat back on the sofa and chatted with him.


    After ten minutes or so, Emily and Abigail finally came down.


    Emily walked out, head down, holding Ian¡¯s ck trench coat tightly.


    "Emily!"


    Ian called out to her, and seeing she didn¡¯t stop, he apologized to Daisy and quickly got up to chase after her.


    Daisy took a sip from her cup of coffee, now nearly cold, and nced outside.


    Outside, the drizzle fell gently. Ian Linton¡¯s ck Maybach had its lights on quietly. He quickly caught up to Emily, grabbed her hand. Though she seemed to try to break free, she ended up being forcefully pulled into the car by Ian.


    "Have you had enough?!"


    The man¡¯s voice, low and with a hint of anger, faintly came from the car. Daisy withdrew her gaze at the right moment, took another sip of her coffee, then leisurely headed upstairs with a magazine in hand.


    Inside the car, Emily Ginger curled up in the passenger seat, burying her face in her knees, sobbing softly, her voice restrained and frail.


    Ian Linton¡¯s gaze shifted away from Daisy¡¯s graceful figure through the hall. He lit a cigarette, looked at the rain-drenched view outside the windshield, and said coolly to Emily, "If you keep this up, your mom will be heartbroken."


    Emily¡¯s body trembled slightly, she hugged her legs tightly, seemingly helpless, and her sobs grew louder.


    *


    Seeking rmendations~

 Chapter 84 Her Birthday

    <h4>Chapter 84: Chapter 84 Her Birthday</h4><h4></h4>


    The woman¡¯s cries were drowned out by the rustling rain, and Ian Linton looked calm and unaffected.


    He stubbed out his cigarette in the ashtray and said ndly, "Wipe your tears away, don¡¯t let my mom see them."


    Emily Ginger lifted her head, her eyes red with anger at his merciless words, and with a sob, she cursed, "Ian Linton, you really disgust me!"


    The man¡¯s refined and handsome face showed no change in expression. He ignored her further as the car pierced through the flowing rain and drove forward, cutting off the faint sound of her weeping.


    Daisy Ginger stood by the window, watching downstairs.


    Not until Ian Linton¡¯s Maybach disappeared from sight did she slowly lower the curtain.


    Though the rain blurred the view, from her angle, she could still sense that Emily was crying.


    And Ian Linton didn¡¯tfort her anymore.


    No one knew what the two were arguing about.


    Daisy Ginger curled her lips, stopped gossiping, changed into pajamas, and went into the study to start dealing with documents.


    *


    The argument between Ian Linton and Emily Ginger seemed to be just a brief episode after their engagement. Daisy Ginger watched Abigail Perry go out every day to attend various banquets as usual. Sometimes when she returned home, she could see various noblewomen attending tea parties in the Ginger Residence garden, filled withughter and joy.


    This was unimaginable in the past.


    The social circle of high society, to put it nicely, was noble; to put it bluntly, it was exclusive. Abigail Perry had been in Banyan City for so many years, and never had a notable wealthydy been willing to visit her home. Although Abigail attended various charity banquets every day, she was excluded from the high society circle.


    But now, things were different.


    With Emily Ginger engaged to Ian Linton, the Linton family was one of the most prominent and prestigious in Banyan City. From now on, Emily Ginger would move from being an illegitimate daughter born to a rural woman to bing the youngdy of the Linton family. And Abigail Perry had suddenly be a wealthydy praised for raising her daughter well.


    A continuous stream of madams came to learn from her experience, and through Emily Ginger¡¯s marriage, Abigail Perry held her head high with pride.


    ...


    When Daisy was still at home, she used to vent her anger at Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger. Now, married to Edward Stephens, her mind was focused on Edward, and she didn¡¯t care what Abigail Perry was up to at home. Every day after work, she would either go back to the Stephens family or have Edward take her out for good food.


    She felt that her rtionship with Edward Stephens was warming up.


    The most obvious sign was that Edward no longer rejected her touch.


    If she wanted a kiss, he would offer it; if she wanted a hug, he would grant it. Having him open his heart to her seemed just around the corner.


    As August 27th approached, she returned home every day and directed Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker through WeChat to help her buy fireworks from the fireworks store.


    August 27th was her birthday, which Edward Stephens might have forgotten, but she remembered for him.


    He had said that he would spend her birthday with her every year, to thank Heaven for bringing his Daisy Ginger into the world on that day.


    Since Emily Ginger appeared, she hadn¡¯t celebrated her birthday for many years, but with Edward Stephens, a birthday carried different significance.


    She was willing to make an exception for him.


    She hoped he could apany her that day and relive old dreams.


    ...


    After dinner, Daisy Ginger held her phone, curled up on the sofa, remotelymanding in the group chat.


    Dododo Check It Out: Daisy, Ethan has cleared out the entire fireworks store in Banyan City for you, a whole thousand and one boxes, enough to blow up the entire Goldsand Beach.


    Daisy Ginger tagged Ethan Pond in the group and sent a smiley face over: [@A Cup No Disturbance, I¡¯ll send you an engine in a few days, it¡¯s one you like. Smiley.JPG]


    Ethan Pond, God knows what he was doing,zily replied after a few minutes, [Hmm.]


    A bit lukewarm.

 Chapter 85: The Red Apricot Steps Out of the Wall and Still Wants to Eat Oranges?

    <h4>Chapter 85: Chapter 85: The Red Apricot Steps Out of the Wall and Still Wants to Eat Oranges?</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Gingery on the sofa, swinging her legs, still very happy.


    In a good mood, she sent a "muah" emoji in the group chat, tagging Ethan Pond.


    Pancakes Galore: [@Cup A Only, Little Ethan, love you, muah muah muah.jpg]


    Ethan Pond sent a photo back.


    It was a photo of a long, slender hand holding a shaker under dim lighting.


    Daisy Ginger stuck out her tongue, deciding not to disturb his work, and chatted lively with Zoe Hilker.


    Medley of Madness: [Daisy, I want a muah too!]


    Pancakes Galore: [Muah muah muah!]


    Edward Stephens, eating an orange, passed by and casually nced at Daisy Ginger¡¯s phone screen, pausing slightly in his orange-eating motion.


    Couples¡¯ avatars and usernames?


    The man¡¯s expression turned slightly mysterious...


    Seeing him, Daisy Ginger tossed her phone aside, kneeled on the sofa, and immediately reached out to hug his waist.


    Resting her head in his arms, she looked up, "Edward, I want to eat an orange too."


    "..." Edward Stephens nced at her coolly. Cheat and still want to eat oranges?


    He expressionlessly ate thest segment of orange.


    Daisy Ginger: "..."


    Seriously!


    She buried her head in his arms and bit him.


    Edward Stephens let her bite, looking indifferent.


    Daisy Ginger couldn¡¯t bear to really bite him hard, after a few nibbles, she hugged Edward Stephens softly and said, "On the afternoon of the 27th, you really have no ns, do you?"


    Edward Stephens nced at her, seeing her looking up at him expectantly, he replied coolly, "No ns."


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, but couldn¡¯t hide her smile. She pretended to be coy and said, "Then I¡¯ll wait for you at the beach. I¡¯ve brought a tent, we can stay overnight there."


    Edward Stephens softly replied, "Okay."


    His response seemed to make her very happy. Letting go of him, Daisy Ginger sat on the sofa, lifted her chin proudly, and said, "You can go out and y now!"


    Edward Stephens looked at her, then reached out to pinch her cheek before continuing to walk towards the door.


    Daisy Ginger hugged a pillow as she leaned back on the sofa, and only after Edward Stephens¡¯ figure disappeared from sight did she bury her face in the pillow with a "whoop," rolling a few times on the sofa.


    A world for just the two of them.


    She was increasingly looking forward to the night of the 27th!


    *


    Her birthday was getting closer.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s mood was getting better.


    Goldsand Beach was a popr couple¡¯s tourist spot in Banyan City. Every evening, many couples would camp there overnight.


    Facilities were well-equipped.


    Naturally, Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t happy with so many outsiders interrupting her and Edward Stephens¡¯ romantic night, so she paid to reserve the venue. On the 27th, she cleared everyone out so only she and Edward Stephens were at Goldsand Beach.


    Just like he did for her eight years ago.


    She booked a five-star hotel, had champagne and steak delivered in coolers, along with roses, candles, and a bunch of fireworks.


    This was her birthday gift; Edward Stephens¡¯ presence was her best gift.


    ...


    The 27th.


    Daisy Ginger left work and drove to Goldsand Beach.


    Halfway there, she sent Edward Stephens a text message: [Edward, I¡¯m waiting for you at Goldsand Beach.]


    A minuteter, the man replied: [Okay.]


    Feeling relieved, Daisy Ginger opened WeChat to see Zoe Hilker tagging her: [@Pancakes Galore, Daisy, did you bring the little squares?!!]


    Pancakes Galore: [......]


    Medley of Madness: [I knew you didn¡¯t! I¡¯ll have Ethan drive them over for you!!]


    After a long silence, Ethan Pond suddenly popped in.


    Cup A Only: [@Medley of Madness, are you looking for trouble?]


    Medley of Madness: [........]

 Chapter 86 Ian Linton, You Will Not Die Well

    <h4>Chapter 86: Chapter 86 Ian Linton, You Will Not Die Well</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy hesitated for a moment before shyly sending two words over.


    Pancake Love Set: [Got it.]


    Cup of Silence: [...]


    Daisy, for once, felt a little shy and retracted the message she just sent. [Ahem. I¡¯m almost there, can¡¯t chat, the signal here isn¡¯t great, I¡¯ll go offline first!]


    Medicinal Mayhem: [Daisy, give it your all tonight and conquer that big pig Edward Stephens!]


    Daisy sent over a smiling emoji, then put her phone back in her pocket.


    *


    "Mr. Stephens, the bracelet you ordered is here. Shall we send it over to you?"


    Edward responded ndly, "No need, I¡¯lle by to pick it up."


    After hanging up the phone, he drove towards the jewelry store.


    Daisy had mentioned the 27th to him many times, so even if he didn¡¯t think much of it, he checked what day the 27th fell on.


    That jewelry store specialized in custom designs, and the waitlist was so long he¡¯d only be able to get the bracelet by next year. He spent over 300,000 extra to buy a spot from a customer this month to get that gold diamond bracelet.


    When he arrived at the jewelry store, the owner had already personally packaged the bracelet in an exquisite gift box. Seeing him, the owner warmly walked over and handed him the pink box with both hands: "Mr. Stephens, the bracelet is inside, would you like to take a look first?"


    Edward hesitated for a moment but still nodded, "I¡¯ll take a look first."


    The store owner nodded and carefully unwrapped the packaging, taking out the diamond bracelet to show him.


    The handcrafted gold bracelet was exquisite in its craftsmanship, with a cut that machines couldn¡¯t easily replicate. Once taken out, it shone brilliantly in the sunlight.


    Edward didn¡¯t really know Daisy¡¯s taste, but as a birthday gift, it should be suitable.


    He nodded and said, "Thank you."


    "As long as Mr. Stephens likes it," the store owner was also very pleased, putting the bracelet back in the package and handing it to Edward.


    Edward epted the package, paid the remaining bnce, and got in the car with the bracelet.


    Goldsand Beach was about a two-hour drive from Banyan City, but since he was staying over tonight, there was no need to rush. Edward nced at the time¡ªit was almost six o¡¯clock¡ªand turned the car towards Goldsand Beach.


    After driving for a while, Daisy¡¯s message came through.


    [Edward, I¡¯m waiting for you at Goldsand Beach.]


    He replied with a [Mm.]


    He put the phone on the passenger seat, and after a moment, the phone buzzed again. Edward assumed it was Daisy calling, so without checking the caller ID, he answered.


    "Ian Linton, you¡¯ll never die a good death, you¡¯ll never die a good death!"


    "How can you do this to me, Ian Linton, how can you..."


    "I want to call off our engagement, I don¡¯t want to be with you anymore. You¡¯re disgusting, absolutely disgusting!"


    ...


    Edward paused slightly, stopped the car, and nced down at his phone.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s heart-wrenching cries came through the phone; the enormous hatred and anger were clear, even through the device.


    She might have inadvertently pressed something, and Edward had no interest in listening to a couple fight, but just as he was about to hang up, Ian Linton¡¯s voice came through the phone as well.


    The man¡¯s voice was distorted through the phone, not as gentle and clear as when meeting in person.


    "Emily, you¡¯re starting again." His voice was calm, contrasting sharply with Emily Ginger¡¯s hysteria. "What exactly do you want? Please stop being so unreasonable, alright?"

 Chapter 87 Unexpected Incident

    <h4>Chapter 87: Chapter 87 Unexpected Incident</h4><h4></h4>


    Edward Stephens¡¯ fingers paused slightly, his intuition sensing something unusual in Ian Linton¡¯s words.


    "Today is your birthday, after dinner, let¡¯s rest early." Ian Linton¡¯s voice was calm from start to finish, just like his usual poised demeanor, as if persuading Emily Ginger, or coaxing her, "Emily, this is the birthday gift I bought for you, a beautiful tinum ne, do you want to try it on...?"


    He hadn¡¯t finished speaking when "Bang!" something was thrown to the ground.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s hysterical scream rang out: "What the hell kind of birthday is this! Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know who that ne is for! When did I ever like tinum nes? Ian Linton, you¡¯re disgusting, you really disgust me to the point of wanting to vomit!"


    The man seemed to pick up the thing on the ground and patted it. His tone was light and slow but carried a certain pressure,ing from the phone, sounding rather gloomy at this moment: "Emily, there are some things that can be said, and some things that cannot, you know that, right?"


    Emily Ginger sneered: "Why can¡¯t I say it? I¡¯ll say whatever I want. Since you like her so much, how about I call her to confess for you? Saves you from hugging me at night and calling out her name!"


    At this point, Edward Stephens understood the reason for their argument¡ªIan Linton seemed to have had an affair, or there was someone in his heart whom Emily Ginger could not ept.


    He couldn¡¯t be bothered to continue listening to others¡¯ private affairs and was about to hang up when suddenly a sharp, shrill scream from Emily Ginger came through the phone, "Ah¡ª!"


    His hand trembled, and the phone nearly slipped from his palm.


    Emily Ginger only screamed once, and then there was no sound. It wentpletely silent over there, and the two seemed to have stopped arguing.


    However, this silence brought with it an eerie feeling for him.


    Gradually, some other sounds came through.


    It wasn¡¯t very silent; there were other faint noises, like the gurgle of broken bubbles made by a drowning person...


    Edward Stephens finally spoke in a deep voice: "Ian Linton, what are you doing?"


    There was a moment of silence over there, then footsteps could be hearding over.


    The phone seemed to be picked up by someone, and he heard the sound of someone breathing close by.


    Someone was peering down at the phone on Emily Ginger¡¯s side.


    After a few seconds, the call was suddenly disconnected.


    Throughout, Emily Ginger made no sound other than that one scream.


    Staring at the darkened phone screen, Edward Stephens felt a chill creep up from somewhere deep inside. He tightly furrowed his brows, nced at the straight road in the distance, the sunset, and the golden coast covered in a tranquil golden light, where waves surged up and down.


    He picked up the phone and called Daisy Ginger, the phone rang for a while, but no one answered.


    Daisy Ginger was probably already at Goldsand Beach, but the signal was poor over there at night, so she might not receive his call.


    With a serious expression, he sent her a text message.


    [Daisy, your sister may have had an ident. I have to go back. Wait for me on the beach, I¡¯ll be back soon.]


    After sending it, he thought for a moment and sent another message.


    [Please reply if you receive this.]


    ncing at the pink gift box on the passenger seat, Edward Stephens lightly furrowed his brow but still turned the steering wheel to head back the same way.


    *


    *Please vote for rmendation ^_^*

 Chapter 88: Suffering Domestic Violence

    <h4>Chapter 88: Chapter 88: Suffering Domestic Violence</h4><h4></h4>


    8:30.


    The sky hadpletely darkened.


    Daisy Ginger came out of the tent barefoot and plugged in the fairy lights.


    Soon, around the tent, three meters wide, warm yellow lights began to flicker.


    She hummed a tune, squatted by the tent ying with sand for a while, then hugged her knees, crouching beside the tent, and looked down at the time.


    It was 8:30, not knowing when Edward Stephens would arrive.


    However, the distance from the city center to the seaside takes two hours, so it was normal for Edward to arrive a bitte.


    She raised her head, listening to the sound of the waves, watching the stars twinkling in the sky.


    That night, just like eight years ago, the weather was still clear, the starry night just as splendid.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s lips curled slightly as she looked at the distant waves, her eyes softening with the memories.


    *


    Lady Stephens called.


    "Edward, where are you now? The police. have already arrived, and so has the ambnce. I just called Abigail, should I go to the hospital to look too?"


    Her voice sounded tense, seemingly frightened by the content of the phone call from her son just now.


    Edward Stephens was already in the city center; he frowned slightly and nced at the time. A round trip would already make it 9:00.


    "I¡¯ll go to the hospital." Edward said, "Mom, stay home tonight, don¡¯t go out."


    Lady Stephens responded, then sighed, "Ah, how did ite to this? Just recently they seemed so in love..."


    Edward had no mood to listen to his mother¡¯sment; he hung up the phone, slightly speeding up towards the city hospital.


    Half an hourter, he parked his car at the hospital entrance.


    As he went up, the police officer who had just finished the notes wasing down from upstairs, and Edward stepped aside, seeing their rxed demeanor, which didn¡¯t reflect a deadly incident.


    He walked up with a heavy voice and then heard Ian Linton¡¯s voice, "Mr. Stephens."


    Edward paused, looked ahead, and saw Ian Linton being supported by a nurse,ing out of the emergency room.


    He looked a bit miserable.


    A red p mark stained his fair face, scratches on his neck and face, freshly treated, yet still appeared bloody.


    The usual refined and handsome look was gone, hair disheveled, stains from spilled food on his clothes.


    A look of having suffered domestic abuse.


    Seeing him, Ian freed himself from the nurse¡¯s arm, walked up to Edward, nodded slightly, and with a helpless bitter smile said, "...made you witness a joke."


    Edward looked at him, lightly furrowing his brows, calmly speaking to Ian Linton, "I got a call from Emily."


    "I know." At this point, Ian seemed even more helpless and guilty, he ruffled his messy short hair and said to Edward, "Emily identally stepped on it... really made youugh."


    For the quarrel between him and Emily Ginger being overheard by Edward, this seemed to make the young man quite embarrassed and ashamed, showing some helplessness and confusion in front of Edward.


    "Hmm." Edward withdrew his gaze, turned his head to look at the distant ward; inside, Abigail Perry had arrived, sitting beside Emily Ginger, but blocked by Abigail¡¯s back, he couldn¡¯t see what Emily¡¯s current condition was.

 Chapter 89: The 89th one got pregnant.

    <h4>Chapter 89: The 89th one got pregnant.</h4><h4></h4>


    He walked a few steps towards the hospital room door, his gazending on Emily Ginger¡¯s face.


    Emily Ginger was lying on the hospital bed, whether unconscious or asleep, herplexion appeared calm and her expression serene. He nced at her neck but did not see any marks. Edward Stephens calmly withdrew his gaze.


    The short, sharp scream from Emily Ginger and the bubbles sound like someone drowning from the phone, contrasted with the seemingly calm scene that looked like a regr family argument, intuitively made him feel that something was amiss.


    He hadn¡¯t heard the beginning and end of the argument clearly. Seeing Ian Linton in such a disheveled state now, perhaps before Ian took action, Emily Ginger had already had a fight with Ian¡ªwho knows.


    Just thatst sound, like a stone thrown into calm water, made him somewhat uneasy.


    Edward Stephens said to Ian Linton, "I was the one who called the police."


    Ian Linton was slightly stunned and then awkwardly and helplessly nodded, "...I didn¡¯t expect it to get so ugly... Today is Emily¡¯s birthday, I originally wanted to celebrate for her..."


    Edward Stephens said, "Emily is a simple person. If you truly love her, don¡¯t disappoint her."


    As he spoke these words, both his expression and tone were very calm and indifferent, as if stating a in fact.


    Ian Linton lightly paused, then sighed softly. He seemed somewhat guilty and nodded, "...It was my fault for not doing well enough, which led to her misunderstanding... Sigh, I will exin to her clearly in the future. She is the only one in my heart."


    The rtionship problems of others were not for him toment on. Edward Stephens didn¡¯t say more; he nced at the time while intending to turn and leave when Abigail Perry¡¯s voice sounded behind him, "Edward, you¡¯re here."


    Abigail Perry was wearing a gown, draped with a trench coat, her makeup elegant, seemingly having rushed over from some banquet.


    She walked over hesitantly, lightly called out to Edward Stephens, and then said to him with slightly red eyes, "Emily is okay, Edward, don¡¯t worry."


    Edward Stephens nced at Emily Ginger on the hospital bed, nodded, "I received her call, seeing them arguing fiercely, I was afraid of an ident."


    Abigail Perry¡¯s eyes were slightly red, "Emily¡¯s phone emergency contact is you, maybe she forgot to delete it and identally pressed it."


    Edward Stephens responded, "If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll be off."


    Abigail Perry hurriedly said, "Let me see you off then."


    A nurse walked over holding ab report and asked loudly at the door, "Who is Emily Ginger¡¯s family member?"


    "I am." Ian Linton responded and quickly stepped forward.


    "Miss Ginger is already one month pregnant." She nced at the disheveled young man in front of her, seeming to have an added degree of sympathy, her tone softened a bit, "Pregnant women can have bad tempers, as the husband, you need to be more understanding."


    Ian Linton seemed equally stunned by this news, looking at the nurse in disbelief. Momentster, a hint of ecstatic joy appeared on his refined and handsome face; he grabbed the test report from the nurse¡¯s hand, lowered his head to look at it, and excitedly asked, "I¡¯m going to be a dad? I¡¯m going to be a dad?"


    Abigail Perry also hurriedly walked over, standing beside Ian Linton to look at the test report, beaming joyfully.


    "Emily is pregnant? Already one month?" She smiled irresistibly, "Great, really great¡ª"

 Chapter 90: Finger Marks

    <h4>Chapter 90: Chapter 90: Finger Marks</h4><h4></h4>


    Watching the two of them in high spirits, Edward Stephens lit a cigarette, took a drag, and nced at the woman on the hospital bed through the faint mist.


    Then, he turned around calmly and left.


    "Edward," Ian Linton called out to him, chasing after him from behind. He looked at him, seeming a bit embarrassed, "Let me walk you downstairs. I really made a fool of myself today, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry."


    Edward slightly lifted his chin and said indifferently, "I still have some matters to attend to. You can go back, this is far enough."


    At his words, Ian stopped, giving him an apologetic smile, "I really troubled you tonight."


    Edward waved his hand and turned to leave.


    He stubbed out the cigarette and tossed it into the trash can, then got into the car parked at the hospital entrance.


    On the passenger seat, the pink delicate gift box glimmered slightly under the dim car light. He sat in the driver¡¯s seat, nced down at the time, and his brows furrowed gently for an instant.


    10:10 PM.


    He took out his phone and nced at the text messages.


    There was no reply from Daisy Ginger.


    Did she see the text he sent?


    *


    Ian Linton went to handle the admission procedures, while Abigail Perry asked the nurse to leave, nced outside, and then carefully closed the door.


    She walked over, looking at her daughter sleeping peacefully on the hospital bed, reached out, and tenderly stroked her soft cheek with a pained expression.


    Then, she gently moved aside the long hair draped over Emily Ginger¡¯s shoulders.


    Five dark bruise marks immediately presented themselves ringly to Abigail Perry¡¯s eyes.


    Abigail¡¯s fingers began to tremble slightly, she pressed her lips tightly together, her fingers cautiously touched the frightening finger marks on the back of Emily Ginger¡¯s neck, her breath quickened.


    Since it was she herself who changed Emily Ginger¡¯s hospital gown, the choke marks on the back of her neck weren¡¯t visible from the front.


    Abigail looked at those bruises with aplex expression until sudden footsteps sounded from outside the door.


    Startled, she hurriedly let Emily Ginger¡¯s hair fall back down, just as Ian Linton¡¯s gentle voice came from behind, "Auntie, is Emily awake?"


    Abigail collected her expression, turning to look at this refined and handsome young man. He seemed to have tidied himself up a bit, looking less disheveled, and the bloodstains on his face had faded considerably, restoring his usual genteel and refined demeanor.


    "Not yet." Abigail withdrew her gaze, feeling unountably tense, swallowed hard, hesitantly asked Ian Linton, "Ian, you and Emily... why did you argue?"


    Ian walked over, stood by the bed, looked down at Emily Ginger, a wry, faint smile appeared on his handsome face, and he said softly, "She¡¯s been like thistely, always startled... Today is her birthday, I gave her a ne, and she seemed not to like it much." He smiled wryly at Abigail, "Using this as a reason, she started arguing with me."


    Abigail seemed to find it unbelievable, shaking her head, she couldn¡¯t help but say, "Emily... Emily is not a person who acts willfully like this!"


    Ian replied calmly, "Maybe it¡¯s because she¡¯s pregnant, her mood¡¯s not good."


    "Ye-yes..." Abigail responded, standing beside Ian and looking at the deeply sleeping Emily on the bed. For some reason, perhaps it was the air conditioning in the room being too low, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a little cold.


    She said to Ian, "Ian, I¡¯ll take care of Emily here, you should go home first. When she wakes up, I¡¯ll talk to her properly."


    *


    *Stealing your rmended votes, awwooo~*

 Chapter 91: A Grand and Passionate Firework

    <h4>Chapter 91: Chapter 91: A Grand and Passionate Firework</h4><h4></h4>


    Ian Linton nodded gracefully, "Then I¡¯ll trouble you, Auntie." He walked to the door, suddenly turned his head, and smiled at Abigail Perry, "Auntie looks very beautiful today, it suits you well."


    Upon hearing this, Abigail Perry¡¯s face lit up, and she couldn¡¯t help but say, "Really? This was designed for me by Mrs. Carter¡¯s designer, that designer..."


    Ian Linton smiled faintly, "Mrs. Carter¡¯s family has been in the design industry for generations, their aesthetics are indeed unique."


    An aristocratic family so noble and distinguished, if Emily Ginger hadn¡¯t married into the Linton family, Abigail Perry might never have set foot into the Carter Residence, nor would she have been included in that circle.


    Ian Linton¡¯s words made Abigail Perry both excited and proud, her delight was undeniable despite her heavy makeup.


    Ian Linton smiled gently again, "This week the Woods Estate is hosting a charity event, I have two invitations here. I¡¯ll have my secretary send them over tomorrow, you and Emily can go have fun."


    Abigail Perry nodded eagerly, "That sounds good, I¡¯ll take Emily to rx."


    "I¡¯m busy with work, so I¡¯ll have to trouble Auntie to take care of Emily," Ian Linton said softly.


    "No trouble at all, no trouble at all. I¡¯m Emily¡¯s mother, it¡¯s my duty to care for my daughter," Abigail Perry hastily went over to send Ian Linton downstairs. Aftering back, her joyful expression was impossible to hide.


    Even though she had married into the Ginger Residence, invitations from those noble and proud families were always sent directly to Daisy Ginger, and they never spared her even a nce.


    The upper-ss circle is hard to enter, and Daisy would never take them inside; they kept to themselves while Abigail Perry had been eagerly eyeing the outskirts of this circle for eight years. Now, finally, relying on Emily Ginger, she had taken a step in, her inner excitement and pride were impossible to contain.


    She walked over to sit on the bed, gazed at her daughter¡¯s tender, fair face, couldn¡¯t help but grasp her hand, and silently thought, Emily, mom is counting on you for the rest of her life, please don¡¯t let mom down.


    *


    Edward Stephens was driving, couldn¡¯t help but pick up the phone and call Daisy Ginger.


    The sky had unknowingly turned gloomy, clouds gathered thick, covering the starlight, as if it might rain at any moment.


    Edward nced at the navigation system, realizing it would take more than an hour to reach Goldsand Beach, clearly unable to make it before midnight.


    No one answered the phone, he rarely felt a faint sense of frustration, tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, nced at the pink gift box, his lips pressed thinly, and his hand gripping the steering wheel tightened slightly.


    ...


    At some point, it started raining.


    Daisy Ginger lifted her face from her knees, her gaze somewhat bewildered as she looked up at the sky where a light drizzle drifted down.


    Today doesn¡¯t seem suitable for a birthday.


    It¡¯s raining, the stars are gone, and the fireworks weren¡¯t as beautiful as they used to be.


    She hugged her knees, sat idly for a while, then turned her head to look at the nearby road.


    It was almost midnight, and Edward Stephens still hadn¡¯te.


    Feeling a bit cold, she slowly tightened her hold on her legs, burying her face in her knees.


    It was as if she had set off a grand and intense fireworks disy in her heart all by herself, and now that the fireworks were over, she feltpletely empty.


    She closed her eyes, unsure if she felt disappointed or sad, just that she was a bit weary.


    Sometimes, anticipation really isn¡¯t a good thing.


    The disappointment that follows is unbearable.

 Chapter 92 Blacklist

    <h4>Chapter 92: Chapter 92 cklist</h4><h4></h4>


    The rain was getting heavier.


    Finally, it drenched herpletely.


    The surroundings dimmed, and the warm yellow fairy lights around the tent seemed unable to resist the gloomy weather, emitting a weak, dim glow.


    The steak delivered early had already gone cold, and the cake was sitting on the small table, with the edges of the cream starting to melt.


    Messy, it looked like a joke.


    Daisy Ginger lifted her face from her knees, her entire body soaked as she entered the tent, took out a car key from inside, and turned to walk toward the car parked by the shore.


    *


    When Edward Stephens¡¯s car arrived at Goldsand Beach, it was already 12:30.


    In front of the car lights, a dark tent was set up by the coast. He opened the car door, got out in the rain, and walked toward the tent.


    Inside the tent, the bouquet of roses was still intact, but the cream cake was drenched by the rain, and its delicate frosting hadpletely melted. Under the dim light, the small yellow bulbs were still flickering, adding a touch of loneliness amidst the sound of the waves.


    He wiped the rain from his face, stood at the tent¡¯s entrance for a while, then turned his head to look at the nearby highway.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s silver SMW was gone, and her bag was also not in the tent.


    He looked down at his phone, and there was no signal here.


    He stood there, letting out a slight sigh.


    *


    a.m.


    Nightclub.


    Ethan Pond handed a freshly mixed cocktail to a customer in front of him against the backdrop of deafening music, feeling his phone, kept close to his body, vibrate a few times.


    He had customized Daisy Ginger¡¯s ringtone to be different from others, and sensing the vibration, he quickly took out his phone, nced at the screen, his arrogant eyebrows narrowing slightly for a moment, then with a stern face, he sprang out from behind the bar and walked quickly towards the door.


    "Ethan!"


    Zoe Hilker, who had just delivered drinks to a customer, saw his back and, somewhat confused, instinctively chased after him, grabbing Ethan Pond¡¯s tattoo-covered arm,ining, "Where are you going? It¡¯s not closing time yet!"


    Ethan halted his steps, his handsome face full of coldness. Zoe Hilker was so startled by his murderous expression that she let go of her hand, only to hear Ethan say, "Daisy Ginger is now at my doorstep. I have to go back."


    "She..." Zoe Hilker¡¯s eyes, adorned with sequins, slowly widened, and a moment of incredulity flooded her beautiful peach blossom eyes.


    Ethan dashed out into the rain, while Zoe Hilker stood in a daze for a moment before immediately chasing after him, "Ethan, I¡¯ming with you!"


    Five minutester, a ck modified motorcycle shot out of the bar¡¯s parking garage, speeding back with incredible velocity.


    *


    Daisy Ginger sat on the steps at Ethan Pond¡¯s doorstep, hugging her legs, watching the continuous rain in the sky.


    Her mind was unusually empty, all those financial reports and data were flushed out of her brain, and she had no thoughts at all.


    The phone began to buzz and vibrate, she nced down at it, pressed to decline the call, then swiped the screen, opened the contacts, and added that number to the cklist.


    After doing all this, she put the phone aside, hugged her legs again, and continued sitting on the steps, looking up at the drizzling rain above her head.


    Edward Stephens sat in the car, looked at the rejected call on his phone, sighed lightly, and had no choice but to dial her again.


    This time, it was directly: "The number you have dialed is temporarily unavable."


    Edward Stephens knew that his number had been added to Daisy Ginger¡¯s cklist.

 Chapter 93: Teaching Edward Stephens a Lesson

    <h4>Chapter 93: Chapter 93: Teaching Edward Stephens a Lesson</h4><h4></h4>


    Thinking about this, he leaned back on the car seat and had to sigh deeply once again.


    The rain seemed to have let up a bit, and he called his mother, asking if Lady Stephens had seen Daisy Ginger.


    Lady Stephens seemed to have fallen asleep. When she answered his call, her voice was still drowsy with sleep: "No. Edward, are you still outside?"


    "Yes." Edward Stephens replied calmly. He lit a cigarette and took a slow drag under the dim streetmp, wondering where Daisy might be at the moment.


    He felt a faint sense of irritation, lowered the car window, letting the evening breeze tinged with drizzle blow in. Lady Stephens was still on the phone, telling him toe home early. Edward responded with "Alright," and then hung up, turned the car around, and drove toward Daisy¡¯s vi in the city center.


    He thought that it wasn¡¯t likely that Daisy went to the Ginger Residence or returned to his home. The most likely ce would be the vi she had once proudly introduced to him.


    At four-thirty in the morning, he slowly parked the car on the wet concrete and turned his head to look at the dark vi nearby. He slowly opened the car door and got out.


    Thewn was soaked with rainwater, soft and wet underfoot. Edward Stephens, known to have a slight cleanliness obsession, was now soaked through from the rain, his shoes covered in mud. His nerves were somewhat numb; he just wanted to find the person quickly.


    He arrived at the door and raised his hand to press the doorbell.


    The rain had stopped, and the surroundings were silent, with no soundsing from inside the house.


    Edward Stephens furrowed his brow, feeling a bit annoyed. He took out a pack of cigarettes from his pocket and bit one between his lips.


    Behind him, a shadow crept silently over, stood behind the man for a moment, then suddenly swung a baseball bat he held at the back of the man¡¯s head¡ª


    *


    "Zoe."


    "Yes!" Zoe Hilker heard the voice and hurriedly ran in from outside the door, seeing Daisy Ginger emerging from the bathroom with her hair wet.


    "Drink some hot water to warm up!"


    She handed over the milk powder she had just mixed, secretly observing Daisy¡¯s expression.


    "Oh..." Daisy¡¯s expression was serene and seemed calm, but her eyescked light, and her little face had turned pale white from a night of wind exposure, looking pitifully.


    Zoe Hilker took out a towel, "Daisy,e, let me dry your hair."


    Daisy walked over and sat on the sofa, holding a teacup and staring nkly for a while.


    Zoe Hilker dried the moisture from her hair, then took out a hairdryer to carefully dry her hair. For a moment, the only sound left in the air was the buzzing noise from the hairdryer.


    "All done." Zoe Hilker put away the hairdryer and gently touched Daisy¡¯s warm, long hair, smiling, "Daisy, Ethan¡¯s guest room has my pajamas, I¡¯ve cleaned them all. Go change, you have work tomorrow, get some rest early."


    Daisy lifted her eyelids, nced at Zoe Hilker¡¯s exaggerated makeup,zily retracting her gaze, "Oh..." She stood up, took a few steps, then turned her head as if remembering something and asked, "Where¡¯s Ethan?"


    Howe he¡¯s missing after taking a shower?


    Zoe Hilker sat on the sofa, scratched her corn-rolled orange curls, and looked towards the empty doorway: "He said he went to teach Edward Stephens a lesson and drove off." Zoe Hilker tilted her head slightly, looking at Daisy, "Hmm... He should be back soon, right?"

 Chapter 94 Caught for Committing a Crime

    <h4>Chapter 94: Chapter 94 Caught for Committing a Crime</h4><h4></h4>


    Going to teach Edward Stephens a lesson?


    Daisy Ginger paused for just a moment, then yawned and waved her hand at Zoe Hilker: "I¡¯m going to sleep."


    She didn¡¯t take this matter too seriously, after all, she didn¡¯t even know where the scoundrel Edward Stephens was right now, and it was unlikely that Ethan Pond would find him before she did, right?


    After showering, shey in the guest room at Ethan Pond¡¯s house; it was already past five by then.


    Her nerves, which had been tense for too long, suddenly rxed. Daisy Ginger closed her eyes, and in the warm and soft bed, she fell asleep quickly.


    She didn¡¯t know how long she slept¡ªperhaps only a short while¡ªbefore she was woken by the phone ced beside the bed.


    Her sleep was restless, and upon waking, nerves were twitching on her forehead, and the sharp ringtone caused a ringing in her ears.


    Daisy Ginger irritatedly groped in the dark under the pillow to retrieve her phone and nced at the caller ID.


    It was Lady Stephens calling.


    It¡¯s not even six o¡¯clock yet, why was Lady Stephens calling?


    Daisy Ginger pinched her brow andy on the bed, pressing the answer key with a hoarse voice: "Hello?"


    "Ginger," Lady Stephens¡¯ voice came through the phone, crying hysterically, instantly waking Daisy Ginger up. "The detention center just called, Edward got himself arrested¡ª"


    Lady Stephens¡¯tter half of the sentence directly startled Daisy Ginger¡¯s heartbeat into skipping a beat.


    ¡ªCould it be that Edward Stephens didn¡¯t show up today because he went tomit murder?


    She soothed Lady Stephens, hung up the phone, and with a solemn face, sat up from the bed.


    *


    Zoe Hilker removed her makeup, applied a facial mask, and sat on the sofa, holding the remote control while watching ate-night show.


    Having opened a bar, her schedule had long since turned upside down. She was nning to rest a bit in Ethan Pond¡¯s room after watching the variety show, only to see Daisy Ginger already dressed anding down from upstairs.


    She paused for a moment, instinctively said, "Are you off to work so early, Ginger?"


    Daisy Ginger shook her head. She hadn¡¯t slept well, herplexion was poor, and even her bright red lips seemed bloodless. Yet, her hair and eyes were still jet-ck, her skin still so white; regardless of her changed aura, she remained a beauty.


    "Edward Stephens is currently in the detention center," Daisy Ginger said, "I¡¯m going to check it out."


    "He got arrested?" Zoe Hilker was also shocked, instinctively stood up, and then her phone rang. She picked it up to answer, not knowing what was said inside, and her small egg-shaped face gradually took on a peculiar expression.


    "What¡¯s wrong?" Daisy Ginger looked at her expression, frowned, "Who called?"


    "Ginger," Zoe Hilker seemed to be overwhelmed by the news inside, stammering, "Ethan, Ethan Pond is now..."


    Daisy Ginger watched her expression and understood what hadn¡¯t been said in Zoe Hilker¡¯s incredible expression.


    *


    At six o¡¯clock, the sky hadn¡¯tpletely brightened.


    Daisy Ginger lit a cigarette, rested one hand on the steering wheel, raised her hand and took a slow drag.


    Zoe Hilker was somewhat sleepy, looking a bit listless, sat in the passenger seat watching her smoke, and said, "Ginger, you still love smoking so much."


    "It bes easier to smoke more when in a bad mood." Daisy Ginger tapped the ash, nced at her, wound down the car window to let the cold wind blow away the pungent smell of smoke in the car, "If you¡¯re sleepy, go ahead and sleep. I¡¯ll wake you when we arrive."


    "Oh." Zoe Hilker responded, hugged the cushion in the car, buried her face in it and inhaled, "It has Ginger¡¯s scent on it."


    Daisy Ginger smiled, reached out to cover Zoe Hilker with a nket, then looked ahead at the dim road, her face sinking slightly.


    *


    Remember to vote

 Chapter 95: "Look at you, what do you look like now?

    <h4>Chapter 95: Chapter 95: "Look at you, what do you look like now?</h4><h4></h4>


    At seven o¡¯clock, Daisy Ginger¡¯s car stopped at the entrance of Banyan City¡¯s detention center.


    The city was not yet fully awake, but the entrance of the detention center was bustling ¡ª a drunkard was being dragged out of a police car, hugging amppost and vomiting; there were ruffians, who had gotten into a bloody brawl, standing fiercely in front of the police car, exchanging curses with each other, the tense atmosphere suggesting that another fight was imminent at the detention center entrance, but the police holding batons came out and cursed them, pushing them to walk inside the gates.


    The noise, themotion, all converged here. Daisy Ginger rolled down the car window and looked out, her slender eyebrows knitted lightly on her pale face, showing some displeasure ¡ª


    This ce was filthy, and she wasn¡¯t very keen on getting out.


    Zoe Hilker woke up, observed, and immediately raised her hand, saying: "Ginger, I¡¯ll go for you!"


    Daisy Ginger shook her head, said nothing, and opened the car door to get out.


    As she stepped down, everyone at the entrance of the detention center fell silent, even the drunkard leaning against themppost stopped vomiting and looked up.


    When Daisy Ginger arrived, she was wearing Zoe Hilker¡¯s ck strap dress, slim-fitting, and the fabric was soft and close-fitting, highlighting the beautiful contours of her body. Her neck was long and slender, with delicate corbones exposed, with only a thin brownmb-wool shawl draped over her shoulders, no makeup, her long hair cascading like seaweed, giving her an artistic andnguid look.


    "Ginger!" Lady Stephens¡¯ car happened to pull up as well, and upon seeing Daisy Ginger, she immediately ran up with a quick trot.


    Lady Stephens was still in her pajamas, seemingly having rushed out upon receiving a phone call, without even changing clothes, wearing her home slippers in a hurry.


    Perhaps having never encountered such a situation in her life, Lady Stephens looked extremely flustered, like a small animal running to her front, grabbing her hand and looking at her eagerly, seeking reassurance.


    Daisy Ginger gently let go of Lady Stephens¡¯ hand and calmly said, "Let¡¯s go in and have a look first."


    *


    Inside the detention center, Edward Stephens and Ethan Pond were locked up together.


    The two sat on opposite sides, and the young officer who had brought them knocked on the door and said to them: "Your family is here."


    While dealing with the bail procedures, Daisy Ginger also heard the whole story about how the two were caught.


    ¡ª¡ª In the middle of the night, Ethan Pond and Edward Stephens had fought intensely at her vi¡¯s gate, almost tearing up herwn, and the neighbors got scared and called the police, directly arresting these "little thugs" who were fighting at midnight.


    A "baseball bat" used in the crime was sessfully confiscated.


    "So I just need to sign here, right?" Daisy Ginger raised her head, brushing aside the loose hair falling on her cheek, and softly asked the officer sitting across from her.


    The young officer¡¯s face blushed lightly under her gaze, his tone also softening, "Yes. Sign your name, pay the money, and you can take them away."


    Daisy Ginger nodded, called Zoe Hilker to pay the bail, then lit a cigarette, and went to see the two detained men.


    Ethan Pond and Edward Stephens were both sporting different degrees of bruises.


    Edward Stephens had a bruised lip, and Ethan Pond¡¯s eye waspletely ck.


    The two men were covered in dirt, and it was unclear how many times they had rolled on the ground.


    Daisy Ginger walked inside, stopped in front of Ethan Pond, picked a piece of dry grass from his short hair, and holding it between her fingers, said to Ethan Pond, "Look at yourself, what a state you¡¯re in now?"

 Chapter 96: Get Lost

    <h4>Chapter 96: Chapter 96: Get Lost</h4><h4></h4>


    She looked so arrogant, unbearably overbearing.


    Ethan Pond pressed his thin lips together; this unruly man was as gentle as amb in front of Daisy Ginger. He lowered his head and obediently admitted his mistake, "Daisy, I¡¯m sorry... for causing you trouble."


    Daisy Ginger snorted coldly, crossing her arms and lifting her pointed chin, her tone icy: "What are you still standing there for? Want to spend the night in the detention center? Get up, or do you need me to invite you to leave?"


    Her words made the few little officers guarding the door unable to resist looking in a few more times.


    It was just... too domineering.


    Especially standing there petite and small,pared to the tall, slender, tattoo-covered man, like the difference between a rabbit and a leopard, her neck was thinner than Ethan Pond¡¯s arm, as if he could easily break it with a lift of his hand.


    Yet she lectured him, and Ethan Pond didn¡¯t utter a word, lowering his head and behaving more obediently than a demure wife.


    The scene looked extremely incongruous.


    After a while, Ethan Pond licked his lip piercing, obediently stood up from the stool, and humbly followed behind Daisy Ginger, apologizing, "Daisy, I know I¡¯m wrong. Don¡¯t be angry, I¡¯ll go back and mix drinks for you?"


    Daisy Ginger: "Don¡¯t touch me!"


    Ethan Pond retracted his hand dejectedly, lowered his head, and remained silent.


    Lady Stephens stood next to her son, watching her daughter-inw arrogantly lead away the man who had beaten her son, her expression bewildered for a while before she subconsciously called out to Daisy Ginger, "Daisy, you guys..."


    Daisy Ginger walked to the door, heard Lady Stephens¡¯s voice, and turned her head to nce at them.


    Edward Stephens sat expressionlessly on the bench, his eyes on her, looking disheveled yet exuding nobility.


    He looked as if he hadn¡¯t been beaten enough.


    Daisy Ginger curled her lips, smiled at Lady Stephens, and amicably said, "Auntie, the bail is paid over by the door, you got it wrong."


    "Ah...?" Lady Stephens looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s usual smiling face, increasingly confused.


    So the paper she signed at the door earlier wasn¡¯t for Edward Stephens?


    The bail paid wasn¡¯t for Edward either?


    Daisy Ginger withdrew her gaze, arrogantly nudged Ethan Pond beside her with her chin, and kicked him, "Get lost."


    Ethan Pond let out a long sigh and was dragged away by Zoe Hilker, who was making faces.


    "..." Edward Stephens, who hadn¡¯t spoken all this time, finally uttered, his voice deep, "I called you, but you didn¡¯t answer."


    Daisy Ginger lifted her eyes to nce at him, then calmly retracted her gaze, coldly replied, "Maybe your phone was broken."


    "..." Edward Stephens was silent for a moment, but couldn¡¯t help saying, "I sent you a text."


    "Maybe it was considered spam."


    Edward Stephens: "......"


    Daisy Ginger no longer paid attention to him, stepping out the door.


    Lady Stephens only then understood, watching Daisy Ginger¡¯s back as she left, then raised her hand and pped Edward Stephens¡¯s head in frustration, "Oh, you idiot, you¡¯ve made Daisy angry again? How can you be so useless!"


    "You¡¯re always upsetting your wife, look, now she¡¯s run off with another man!"


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    ...She not only ran off with another man but also plotted with them to ¡¯kill her husband¡¯.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the wall, exhaled slightly, and felt a rare sense of frustration at heart.

 Chapter 97: Homeless Edward Stephens

    <h4>Chapter 97: Chapter 97: Homeless Edward Stephens</h4><h4></h4>


    Half an hourter, Edward Stephens walked out of the detention center, under the awkward smile and sweaty brow of the director who had rushed over upon hearing the news.


    He got into the car, sat in the back seat, resting his face on his hand, turning his head to look out the window, silent.


    Lady Stephens climbed into the car, sat with him in the back seat, her face still carrying the remnants of anger.


    "Just look at you, why are you so disappointing? You¡¯ve just reconciled with Daisy for a few days, and now you¡¯ve upset her again. Do you want to drive your mother to her grave?"


    "Why are you just sitting there dumbly? Hurry up and call Daisy to apologize, and cheer her up!"


    After speaking, seeing her son still sitting there unmovingly, she reached directly for his phone to personally call Daisy Ginger to apologize.


    Edward nced at her, letting her fiddle with his phone, and only after Lady Stephens dialed the number did he calmly say, "She cklisted my number."


    Lady Stephens froze for a moment, looked at him in disbelief, her urgency rising¡ª"You ungrateful wretch, what did you do to Daisy again!"


    These days, although Daisy Ginger and Edward Stephens quarreled, she had never done something like cklisting him.


    This cold treatment clearly conveyed a terrifying message¡ª


    Edward Stephens made Daisy Ginger angry.


    The kind of anger that¡¯s hard to soothe.


    Edward Stephens hadn¡¯t slept all night, driving back and forth, and then got into a fight with Ethan Pond. Although he couldn¡¯t be described as utterly exhausted, he was close to his limit.


    Ethan Pond¡¯s baseball bat didn¡¯t hit his head, but it did scratch his lip, and the swollen joints soaked in his damp clothes itched and hurt, making him ufortable, while his own mother was still nagging in his ear.


    With a sullen face, he spoke, his tone icy cold: "Shut up."


    Lady Stephens froze for a moment, hearing her son with such little will to live, not only did she not shut up, she got even more furious.


    Pointing at Edward¡¯s nose, she cursed: "Edward Stephens, if you don¡¯t coax Daisy back, don¡¯t bothering home! Your mother doesn¡¯t wee you!"


    A thoroughly stressed Edward: "......"


    Whose biological mother is this anyway?


    After venting her anger, Lady Stephens dered her unwillingness to drive in the same car with him, ordered the driver to stop, and took a taxi home.


    Once Lady Stephens left, the driver in the front spoke cautiously, "Young Lord Stephens..."


    Edward leaned against the car seat, eyes closed, and upon hearing this, didn¡¯t open his eyes, just replied softly, "Hmm."


    "Where should we go now?"


    Lady Stephens didn¡¯t allow him to go home, surely the car couldn¡¯t head back to the Stephens family...


    "..." Edward was silent for a moment, apparently speechless about his sudden homelessness. After a pause, in a hoarse voice, he said, "Royal Pavilion."


    The driver gave him a sympathetic look.


    His wife had run off with someone, his mother didn¡¯t want him, and he couldn¡¯t go home.


    He could only go to a friend¡¯s house to stay...


    *


    Hospital.


    "Daisy!"


    Daisy Ginger leaned against the ventted area of the emergency room smoking, hearing Zoe Hilker call her, she stubbed out the cigarette and got up to walk towards the emergency room.


    Ethan Pond, supported by Zoe Hilker, walked out of the emergency room, a bandage covering his eyelid, and his bleeding lip had been treated too, looking much less disheveled than he did at the detention center.


    "I¡¯ll leave the clothes here," Daisy handed the men¡¯s clothing and pants that the secretary had just sent over to Zoe Hilker, and said to Ethan Pond, "I¡¯m headed to thepany, you guys go home and rest."

 Chapter 98: The Domesticated Wolf

    <h4>Chapter 98: Chapter 98: The Domesticated Wolf</h4><h4></h4>


    Zoe Hilker ran over, feeling distressed, and grabbed Daisy¡¯s hand. Her small, young face was furrowed with worry: "Daisy, you haven¡¯t slept for a whole day and night, right? Can¡¯t you take a day off? Yourpany won¡¯t go bankrupt without you for a day."


    "I¡¯ve wasted an entire night," Daisy replied with a faint smile, pulling her hand out of Zoe¡¯s grasp, "I can¡¯t waste another day. Alright, you all should go back."


    Zoe, hearing this, was almost seething with anger, her heart aching: "If I had known that Edward Stephens, that jerk, would stand you up, Ethan and I would havee to spend your birthday with you. If it weren¡¯t for trying to create a special moment for you two..."


    Ever since the incident at the Ginger Residence, Daisy hadn¡¯t celebrated her birthday.


    This year, when the Ginger Residence brought it up, everyone thought Daisy was finally letting go of that emotional knot, but unexpectedly, on the most important day, the person who should have been there, wasn¡¯t.


    Zoe cursed Edward Stephens in her heart a hundred and eighty times before pouting and saying to Daisy, "Daisy, don¡¯t forgive him so easily this time. If you don¡¯t let him cool off and reflect for a few days, he¡¯ll never learn his lesson!"


    Beside her, Ethan Pond spoke quietly, "Perhaps he had some urgent matterst night."


    Zoe nced at him, elbowing his waist in anger, "Why are you still speaking up for him?"


    Ethan ignored her, just lifted his head to look at Daisy: "When I found him at four-thirty in the morning yesterday, he was drenched, with mud all over his pants. He must have been to the beach and didn¡¯t make it in time."


    Zoe, hearing this, protested indignantly, "What¡¯s the use if he arrives? Daisy waited for him at the beach until midnight. Beingte is beingte, who celebrates a birthday the next day?"


    As they exchanged words, Daisy maintained a calm demeanor throughout, her snow-white face showing no change in expression.


    She nced at Ethan and spoke coldly, "If you dare take a baseball bat and go out hitting people without thinking again, you¡¯ll spend years in prison because I¡¯m not going to bail you out from the detention center anymore. Understood?!"


    "..." Ethan¡¯s lips moved as he lowered his head under Daisy¡¯s cold stare, muttering an "Okay," "Got it."


    He was as obedient as a tamed house wolf.


    Zoe joined in on the scolding, "Exactly! All you know is how to hit people all day. See, you¡¯ve caused trouble for Daisy again this time, haven¡¯t you? Daisy didn¡¯t sleep all night, wasting her time on a fool like you~"


    Ethan, seeing her stirring up trouble, red at Zoe when Daisy couldn¡¯t see, scaring her so much that she stiffened, almost wagging her tail.


    "I¡¯m sorry," Ethan hung his head, admitting fault to Daisy, "There won¡¯t be a next time... I just couldn¡¯t stand it, seeing you so hopeful."


    Zoe scoffed, curling her lips in disdain as she watched Ethan pretend to be good in front of Daisy.


    "Alright." Daisy¡¯s expression remained cid, "Don¡¯t bring it up anymore. I didn¡¯t me you; I was just upset that you don¡¯t take care of yourself. If something really happened to you, if there were casualties, I couldn¡¯t protect you even if I wanted to. Ethan, I¡¯m just an ordinary person; don¡¯t act on impulse again."


    Ethan kept his head down, his handsome face showing a hint of guilt as he looked at Daisy, his voice hoarse, "I¡¯m sorry, Daisy."


    Daisy smiled faintly, stepped forward, and patted Ethan¡¯s shoulder, "I¡¯m leaving."


    She took a step forward, pulled out her phone, and called Oliver Rubio to ask him to pick her up at the hospital entrance.


    *


    Please vote~~

 Chapter 99: Not an Important Day

    <h4>Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Not an Important Day</h4><h4></h4>


    After watching Daisy leave, Ethan Pond finally pulled out the phone that had been buzzing incessantly from his pocket.


    A hurried voice came through the phone: "Master Pond, I just received a message, you..."


    "It¡¯s nothing." Ethan Pond replied tly, cutting the person off before they could finish and hanging up the phone.


    "Who would¡¯ve thought that the little brat who used to be so timid is now so cocky." Zoe Hilker produced a strawberry-vored lollipop from nowhere and spoke with it in her mouth, unclear, "Did you see that face, Ethan Pond? If it didn¡¯t look exactly the same, I¡¯d suspect he¡¯s been taken over by someone."


    "Enough." Ethan Pond¡¯s handsome brow furrowed as he pulled out a cigarette from his pocket, ced it between his lips, and lit it with a lighter. He took a drag. The cigarette was a bit soft, making the smoke more choking. Ethan Pond said ndly, "Not everyone would take seventeen stabs for her. Could you?"


    Zoe Hilker bit her candy and fell silent.


    The saying "willing to die for a friend" sounds good, but when the momentes, no one can be sure.


    Edward Stephens truly risked his life and bled for Daisy. No matter how excessive he is now, Daisy¡¯s life was saved by him.


    Without Edward Stephens, there wouldn¡¯t be Daisy now either.


    Indeed, he¡¯s massively changed from eight years ago, but anyone who knows what happened back then won¡¯t me him too harshly.


    "Let¡¯s get back." Ethan Pond bit his cigarette, turned around, and walked towards the hospital exit.


    Zoe Hilker responded with an "oh," following behind Ethan Pond, secretly ncing at his back.


    As childhood friends with Ethan Pond, she knew what feelings Ethan harbored for Daisy.


    Bute to think of it, in all of Banyan City, does it matter if there¡¯s one less man enamored with Daisy?


    It¡¯s just that no one dares to pursue her.


    With Edward Stephens in front, who else could fit in Daisy¡¯s heart?


    Everyone had self-awareness.


    Once someone hasmitted themselves so fearlessly, they probably won¡¯t love anyone else in their lifetime.


    Others are allpromises.


    Daisy would neitherpromise nor agree to.


    She waited for Edward Stephens alone.


    And she finally waited for him again.


    *


    Sitting in the back seat, Daisy closed her eyes to get some rest during the few minutes it took to return to thepany.


    Oliver Rubio, her part-time driver, was driving, ncing at Daisy¡¯s expression a few times in the rear-view mirror.


    She wasn¡¯t wearing makeup,cking the usual sharpness and instead showing a softer beauty, yet her face was pale, perhaps not well-rested, exuding a faint fatigue.


    The sudden "buzz buzz" of a phone ringing startled Oliver Rubio as he searched around for the source, only to see Daisy open her eyes, hold her forehead, sit up, and answer her phone.


    "Hello, Aunt? Oh... I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m almost at the office." Not sure what was said on the other side, Daisy was silent for a moment and then just calmly said, "Yesterday was my birthday, Aunt."


    After she spoke, she said no more.


    It seemed quiet on the other end too; no one knew what was going on.


    After a moment with no reply from Lady Stephens, Daisy said lightly, "Aunt, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll hang up now."


    On the other end, Lady Stephens was almost moved to tears.


    She was silent for a while, organizing her words before speaking haltingly: "Daisy, Aunt forgot, I didn¡¯t prepare a birthday gift for you..."


    Daisy chuckled softly, her tone gentle: "No worries, after all, I won¡¯t celebrate it in the future either. It¡¯s not an important day."

 Chapter 100: Edward Stephens, you’re doomed!

    <h4>Chapter 100: Chapter 100: Edward Stephens, you¡¯re doomed!</h4><h4></h4>


    Lady Stephens was momentarily unsure how to exin and cautiously said, "Last night, around four o¡¯clock, Edward was still outside. He called me asking if you hade to my ce..."


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t react much, only responding faintly, "Mm-hmm."


    Even from her tone, Lady Stephens could tell she was in low spirits, uninterested in her attempts to defend Edward Stephens.


    On the other end of the line, Lady Stephens was at her wit¡¯s end, pondering how to salvage her son¡¯s marriage.


    "Daisy, you might not know this, but Emily had an ident. Last night, Edward reported it to the police and went to the hospital to check. He might have been dyed, but he really did look for you for a long timest night... I heard you blocked his phone number?"


    Lady Stephens¡¯ words made Daisy pause slightly, then she chuckled and said, "His ex-girlfriend¡¯s problems are indeed more important than me. In that case, what else is there to talk about between us? There¡¯s no need to contact each other in the future."


    Hearing this, Lady Stephens felt a thud in her heart¡ªthis was heading towards a separation!


    Watching the two young ones¡¯ feelings recently warming up, and now it had dropped back to freezing point.


    "Daisy, Daisy," Lady Stephens asked her tremulously, "You¡¯re not going to stop visiting Auntie in the future, are you? Auntie has bought you lots of delicious foods. Would you like toe and try them?"


    Daisy calmly said, "Another day."


    After speaking, she added, "I¡¯ve arrived at thepany, Auntie, let¡¯s talkter."


    Without caring what Lady Stephens thought, she directly hung up the phone.


    Oliver Rubio parked the car and watched as Daisy Ginger, carrying a bag, opened the car door and got out.


    Her charming face was filled with a cold smile, more terrifying than a demon.


    On her birthday, he stood her up to go see Emily Ginger?


    Edward Stephens, you¡¯re doomed!


    *


    Edward Stephens slept the entire day at the Royal Residence.


    When he woke up, he was starving, and it was already four-thirty in the afternoon.


    He went into the bathroom to take a shower and looked at himself in the mirror.


    The corner of his lip was swollen and already ck and blue. Since he hadn¡¯t gone to the hospital for treatment, the wound was crusted with blood, looking horrible.


    He had never been this miserable before.


    Edward looked at the bruises all over himself and couldn¡¯t help but sigh softly.


    He ate some fruit, made a reservation for a candlelight dinner at a western restaurant, then drove to Daisy Ginger¡¯spany, waiting for her to get off work.


    The receptionist¡¯s smile was as sweet as ever, and her expression didn¡¯t change a bit when he appeared. But after he reported his name and she made a call to Daisy Ginger, she politely told him, "Our Director Ginger says she doesn¡¯t know any Mr. Stephens."


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    He stood at the reception, licking the corner of his chapped lips, feeling a bit of trouble.


    He came today intending to make amends.


    But Daisy Ginger clearly didn¡¯t want to give him the opportunity.


    Since Daisy refused to see him, he naturally couldn¡¯t force his way up to her office to confront her.


    Edward went back to his car, leaned against the seat, and watched the entrance, nning to wait for her.


    At five-thirty, employees of the Gingers started to leave the building gradually.


    Edward propped up his face, watching outside the window. As the crowd thinned, only a few people stayed behind, but he still didn¡¯t see Daisying down from the building.


    He nced at the time. It was already six-thirty, and the sky was getting dark.


    He looked up at the top floor. The lights in the towering building had all dimmed, except for the lights in Daisy¡¯s office, which were still on.

 Chapter 101: Don’t Care

    <h4>Chapter 101: Chapter 101: Don¡¯t Care</h4><h4></h4>


    He looked up at the top floor, the skyscraper with lights mostly dimmed, only Daisy Ginger¡¯s office lights were still on.


    It seems Daisy Ginger has to work overtime tonight.


    Hezily retracted his gaze, leaning his back against the chair, fingers idly ying with his phone.


    He didn¡¯t know how much time had passed when the phone in his hand suddenly vibrated, Edward Stephens opened his eyes, his gaze fell on the phone screen, and he picked up the call.


    It was the restaurant manager calling, asking when he woulde over, as the Western restaurant would close in two hours.


    Upon hearing this, Edward Stephens nced at his watch, and to his surprise, it was already nine o¡¯clock.


    He looked up, towards the still brightly lit rooftop, and lightly furrowed his brow, speaking in a low voice, "Postpone to tomorrow night."


    The restaurant manager agreed with a "Alright," and hung up the phone.


    Edward Stephens put down the phone, silently leaned on the back of the chair, lit a cigarette with his lighter, and held it between his lips.


    His gaze fell on the pink gift box on the front work station, hesitating for a moment, in the end, he still took down the gift box.


    Gifting the same present after the birthday sounded too insincere.


    Among the swirling smoke, the lights on the top floor suddenly went out, Edward Stephens turned his head, his eyes slightly narrowed.


    *


    "Director Ginger, I¡¯ll take my leave now."


    Oliver Rubio handed over thest document to Daisy Ginger, lowered his head and said to her softly.


    Daisy Ginger was holding a pen, signing her name, without raising her head, she simply replied, "Sorry for the trouble tonight. You can tell finance to double your overtime payter."


    Her long hair was tied up, with only a few strands disobediently sliding down her cheeks, under the light, herplexion was pale to the point of being somewhat transparent.


    Yet her demeanor was calm andposed, showing no trace of strain or fatigue, as if that bloodless skin was just her natural look.


    Before Oliver Rubio left, he couldn¡¯t help but say to her, "Director Ginger, take care of your health."


    Daisy Ginger had just finished signing her name, looked up at her old partner, and smiled, "Don¡¯t look at me as if I¡¯m dying, your boss is fine."


    She stood up from the office chair, stretched her sore shoulders, "Let¡¯s leave together, there¡¯s no one else left in thepany."


    Oliver Rubio nodded, also worried about Daisy Ginger being a woman and possibly in dangerte at night, said, "Director Ginger, let me drive you home."


    Daisy Ginger threw a trench coat over her back, was lighting a cigarette, and smiled at him when she heard his offer, "Go on, hurry home, or else your wife wille to thepany and me me for overworking you like a taskmaster."


    Oliver Rubio showed a hint of embarrassment on his pale face but still defended his wife with a sentence, "She¡¯s not like that."


    Oliver Rubio had been married to his wife for eight years, their feelings unchanged, and someone who cherishes rtionships wouldn¡¯t have bad character, which was why she selected him and valued him after she took office.


    Daisy Ginger walked out from behind her desk, and Oliver Rubio went forward to turn off the lights, suddenly saying, "Director Ginger, that car downstairs has been parked there all night."


    Daisy Ginger was slightly startled, biting her cigarette as she looked toward the entrance of the first floor, indeed seeing a ck sedan with its lights on, quietly waiting there.


    As if she could see the person inside the car through the darkness, Daisy Ginger just slowly exhaled a puff of smoke, her pale face retracted her gaze calmly, and said to Oliver Rubio indifferently, "Let¡¯s go."


    As if she didn¡¯t care at all who was downstairs.

 Chapter 102: Assault and Injury

    <h4>Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Assault and Injury</h4><h4></h4>


    The air had a faint, piercing smell of smoke.


    Daisy Ginger smoked a cigarette for a pick-me-up while chatting with Oliver Rubio about work matters.


    Soon, the two of them got off the elevator and walked out from the front door.


    Edward Stephens had been waiting for Daisy to appear, and finally seeing her, he sighed in relief, got out of the car, and called her name: "Daisy."


    Daisy acted as if she hadn¡¯t heard him at all, turning her head to continue chatting with Oliver as they walked toward the parking lot.


    Watching the two of them walking side by side, Edward¡¯s temple throbbed¡ªthere were only the three of them in this dimly lit ce. If Daisy didn¡¯t hear him calling her, it must be a ghost.


    He walked over, grabbed Daisy¡¯s arm from behind, and said in a deep voice, "Can you not do this?"


    Daisy stopped and finally turned around, the faint scent of smoke still lingering on her, smelling a bit sharp and bitter. Her calm gaze fell on Edward, her pale face, under the streetlight, looking indescribably cold and indifferent.


    "Speak," she said calmly, "Finish here, I want to go home."


    "Yesterday I..."


    "Went to see Emily, right?" Daisy interrupted him, "I heard from your mother. Is she okay now?"


    "..." Edward paused, looking at Daisy¡¯s expression, feeling that Daisy was right, yet somehow wrong. He couldn¡¯t help but frown, "Didn¡¯t you see my message?"


    "No, I didn¡¯t. What about it? I don¡¯t have that much time to waste on you." She couldn¡¯t help butugh, reaching into her pocket for a cigarette, but before she could put it in her mouth, Edward snatched it away and threw it on the ground.


    "Can you just listen to me finish?" Edward frowned with a hint of impatience, holding her arm tightly. The thick smell of tobo on her was pungent, making him wonder how much she had smoked that day.


    Daisy showed no change in expression when her cigarette was thrown away. Her pale face seemed to be wearing a mask, revealing none of her true emotions, her attitude toward him mechanized, gentle yet distant.


    She looked at him calmly, saying indifferently, "Go ahead, I¡¯m listening."


    Edward nced at Oliver standing beside her, not wanting someone to eavesdrop on his private matters with Daisy, and said softly, "Let¡¯s talk in the car."


    Daisy remained unmoved, slightly raising her chin, responding coldly, "I said, whatever you have to say, say it here. If not, I¡¯m going home."


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    Edward¡¯s frown deepened as he looked at Daisy¡¯s icy and indifferent expression, feeling a kind of defeat for the first time in his life.


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    He said, "I did go to Emily¡¯s, but..."


    Before he could finish, Daisy coldly interrupted him.


    Daisy: "I already know about that. Try another topic."


    Edward: "..."


    "Nothing else to say?" Daisy tilted her head slightly, nced at him, then snorted softly, trying to pull her arm free from his grip.


    Edward held on, not letting go.


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    He frowned at her, finding Daisy unreasonable, stubborn, and cold, unable to discern what she was thinking.


    Edward said, "If you¡¯re mad, take it out on me. I was wrongst night, but..."


    Daisy: "Oliver, call the police."


    Edward¡¯s voice paused.


    Daisy looked at him coldly, "Tell them someone is assaulting people on the street, have theme immediately."


    Edward, the "someone assaulting people on the street": "......"


    *

 Chapter 103: No One Wants It Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 103: Chapter 103: No One Wants It Anymore</h4><h4></h4>


    Oliver Rubio stood aside, watching the couple argue. Even though he tried his best to minimize his presence, he was still dragged into the fray by a single sentence from Daisy Ginger.


    He awkwardly held his phone, nced at Edward Stephens, and was immediately noticed by Daisy: "What are you standing there for? Didn¡¯t you hear me tell you to call the police?"


    Edward retorted, "Why are you dragging someone else into our issue?"


    This woman is really unreasonable.


    Daisy¡¯s face was stern, "When did I ever have an issue with you?"


    After saying this, she ignored Edward, shook off his hand, and walked away.


    Edward stood there, watching her hastily departing figure, frowning deeply.


    Oliver remained standing, ncing at Daisy¡¯s back, then at Edward, feeling extremely awkward, "Sir Stephens, then I¡¯ll take my leave first."


    Edward lifted his chin slightly, his gaze still fixed on Daisy, "Drive her home."


    Oliver smiled bitterly, "Director Ginger is quite independent; she probably wouldn¡¯t want to trouble me at thiste hour."


    Edward was silent for a moment, then nodded, "Alright, you go ahead."


    Five minutester, Daisy drove her silver BMW out of the parking lot.


    Edward watched her car, started his own, and followed, maintaining a discreet distance of about a hundred meters.


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    He followed her all the way back to the Ginger Residence, watching as she drove through the gates.


    He slowly parked his car at the entrance of the Ginger Residence, leaned back on his seat, and looked at the dark mansion, seeing a small, dim light turn on on the third floor.


    Dimly, a slender figure appeared on the windowsill.


    Daisy stood by the window, her hair down, thick and fluffy like seaweed on her back. She leaned against the window, seemingly lost in thought, her gaze falling downwards, meeting his.


    The next second, she immediately pulled the curtains shut with an expressionless face.


    Completely cutting off his view.


    ...


    Edward leaned back in his chair, looking in the direction of the third floor, and finally sighed helplessly.


    It was already almost half-past twelve; he had slept the whole day and didn¡¯t feel sleepy at all.


    Leaning back in his seat, he lit a cigarette, taking a drag in the cool evening breeze outside the window.


    Smoke lingered as he lowered his eyes, ncing at the pink-wrapped gift box in the front passenger seat.


    The exquisite gift box, though a day had passed, still showcased the care of its packager and was more than suitable as a birthday gift.


    The youngdy would surely like it.


    With his index finger, Edward gently poked at the gift box¡¯s packaging a few times and muttered to himself, "Alright. Now no one wants you."


    *


    Daisy showered and asked the maid to warm a cup of milk for her.


    Lying on her bed, she flipped through a financial magazine for a while, but finding nothing meaningful, she tossed it aside.


    Sipping her hot milk, something came to mind, and she took out her phone, scrolling through her text messages.


    The messages from Edward were buried under dozens of other texts; the first one read: "Daisy, your sister might have had an ident, I have to go back. Wait for me on the beach, I¡¯ll be back soon."


    The second one read: "Please reply if you receive this."


    The time wasst night, at 7:45 PM.


    Daisy sipped her milk, calmly scanning the two messages a few times, then swiped down with her finger and deleted them both.


    She then set down the milk, turned off the light, and turned onto her side, burrowing under the covers and closing her eyes.


    *


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 Chapter 104: Made the Little Girl Angry

    <h4>Chapter 104: Chapter 104: Made the Little Girl Angry</h4>


    The next day.


    A dreamless night.


    When she woke up, her body was still a bit sore from exhaustion.


    Daisy Ginger went into the bathroom to brush her teeth and wash her face. Looking in the mirror, she noticed herplexion still looked a bit off.


    After all, this age is not like being in your teens, where you could pull all-nighters and still be full of energy.


    She went downstairs and entered the dining room.


    It wasn¡¯t until the servant brought her breakfast that Daisy realized, btedly, that Abigail Perry was not at home.


    Not hearing her loud voice so early in the morning felt strangely unfamiliar.


    She sipped her coffee, pondering over that text message from Edward Stephens.


    Did something happen to Emily Ginger?


    Abigail Perry is also not around; has something big happened?


    Daisy ate her breakfast and made a call to Oliver Rubio, asking him to check what was going on with Emily Ginger on the day of her birthday.


    Finished with breakfast, she received Oliver Rubio¡¯s text message.


    Daisy supported her face with her hands as she carefully read the text, her gaze lingering on the name of the hospital. She was slightly surprised.


    She was even hospitalized?


    She clicked her tongue lightly.


    Could it be that things got out of hand?


    *


    Royal Residence.


    Edward Stephens finished his breakfast, sat on the sofa for a moment, smoked a cigarette in silence with furrowed brows, seemingly at a loss, then picked up the phone to call Ryan Smith.


    Ryan Smith, across the ocean, didn¡¯t know which woman¡¯s bed he had woken up in. The phone rang for nearly thirty seconds before he finally picked up, his voice deeply fatigued: "Hello?"


    Edward Stephens spoke in a deep voice: "Go wash your face. There¡¯s something important I need to ask you; you¡¯d better have a clear head before you answer."


    Ryan seemed to pick up the seriousness in Edward¡¯s tone and, without a word, hung up the phone with tacit understanding.


    Ten minutester, Ryan¡¯s refreshed voice came through the phone again.


    "Okay. What¡¯s the matter? Go ahead."


    Edward Stephens asked, "When you upset a girl, how do you get her to feel better?"


    "..." There was silence for about ten seconds on the other end, before a burst ofughter erupted, "Hahahahaha¡ª Edward Stephens, you¡¯re having one of those days!"


    Edward was prepared, his tone exceptionally calm: "If you keep babbling, I¡¯ll give your number to Gertie."


    Ryan remained calm and collected: "Young Lord Stephens, is that how you ask for a favor? Hmm?"


    You could hear the smugness in his voice even through the phone.


    "Who did you upset? Your wife? Hahahaha¡ªbeg me, and I¡¯ll tell you. I¡¯m not bragging, but when ites to pacifying girls, I¡¯ve never failed!"


    Edward Stephens, expressionless, hung up the phone immediately.


    A minuteter, Ryan¡¯s embarrassed voice came through the phone.


    Through clenched teeth: "You actually gave my phone number¡ª!"


    "If you keep talking nonsense, do you believe I¡¯ll send your address too?" Edward responded with ruthless indifference, "One, two..."


    "Damn!" Ryan shouted angrily, "Edward Stephens, are you even human?! Are you asking for help or threatening me?!"


    Edward leaned back on the sofa, speaking calmly: "I¡¯ll give you onest chance."


    "..." Under Edward¡¯s oppressive influence, Ryan¡¯s teeth ground for a bit before he exhaled, "Alright, what happened between you and your wife? Let me give you some advice, buddy."


    Edward remained silent for a while, as if organizing his thoughts, before softly saying, "Actually, it¡¯s nothing much..."


    *


    Evening, Daisy Ginger got off work.


    Surrounded by employees as she exited the office building, Daisy immediately spotted Edward Stephens leaning against the Bentley.

 Chapter 105: Difficult to Coax

    <h4>Chapter 105: Chapter 105: Difficult to Coax</h4><h4></h4>


    In the evening, Daisy Ginger got off work.


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    Surrounded by employees, Daisy saw Edward Stephens leaning against the Bentley outside the office building.


    Seeing Edward at thepany entrance wasn¡¯t very surprising. What was surprising was that he was holding a pink rose.


    To be honest, when Daisy was in school, she hadn¡¯tcked attention from some bold male ssmates. Despite not having a romantic partner during Valentine¡¯s Day, she still received an overwhelming amount of flowers.


    This situation only improved when she inherited the Ginger Residence and became the president of the Gingers.


    She had seen flower-giving before, but never someone as stingy as Edward.


    Sheughed inwardly but couldn¡¯t help noticing that female employees at herpany had started peeking around.


    Edward was good-looking, much more so than the average man. At the moment, he was wearing a white shirt and faded jeans,zily leaning against the car door. His face was exposed to the sunlight, making him incredibly eye-catching. Before long, he was surrounded by people within a few meters.


    There were not only women but even men.


    Watching this, Daisy felt a bit displeased.


    Ignoring him was one thing, but him attracting attention was another.


    Daisy frowned, walked up to Edward, and red at him, "Get in the car!"


    Edward was slightly perplexed as he watched Daisy get into the passenger seat with a darkened expression. He didn¡¯t say anything else and turned to take his seat in the driver¡¯s position.


    He handed the flower in his hand to Daisy.


    Daisy nced at him, took it, and without any change in expression, plucked off the petals and chewed them up.


    That expression, it was as if she was chewing on his flesh.


    Edward: "..."


    This woman doesn¡¯t y by the usual rules...


    The car was moving, and the interior was slightly quiet.


    Daisy tossed the flower stem aside and rested her face, looking out the window.


    Edward nced at her several times, vaguely noticing a hint of fatigue in her makeup.


    Recalling how she workedte into the night, he said, "You don¡¯t need to push yourself so hard at work."


    His voice was low and deep, slightly vibrating in the car. Daisy¡¯s long eyshes fluttered gently. After a long while, she finally said, "If I don¡¯t push myself, I won¡¯t be able to hold onto what is mine."


    Sunlight scattered across her face, her fairplexion peacefully free of any expression, her gaze resting in a void, her slightly hoarse voice carrying an impassive calmness.


    In the rearview mirror, Edward looked at her silent and tranquil demeanor. For a moment, he felt as if he didn¡¯t truly understand this woman.


    *


    Daisy and Edward had dinner at a Western restaurant.


    At the end, she wiped her lips with a wet napkin and said calmly to the man across from her, "Regardless of who gave you the lousy idea today, don¡¯t show up at mypany with flowers again. It¡¯s so clich¨¦."


    "..."


    "Thank you for the treat." Daisy stood up gracefully from the chair, picked up her bag, and lifted her petite chin at Edward, "No need to see me off, I¡¯ll take a taxi myself."


    "..." Edward was silent for a moment, finally chuckling helplessly. He leaned back in the chair, looked at Daisy, and asked, "How long do you n to be upset with me over this?"


    Daisy paused, stood beside the table looking at him, and nodded in acknowledgment, "I am indeed upset with you. But you can choose to ignore me."


    Edward lit a cigarette, "I came over that night, but you weren¡¯t there."


    Daisy pursed her lips, "You camete."


    "..."


    "You can¡¯t always show upte and make me keep waiting like this." Daisy looked at him, "I get tired too, Edward. You can¡¯t make me wait this long every time."

 Chapter 106: The Air Escaped

    <h4>Chapter 106: Chapter 106: The Air Escaped</h4><h4></h4>


    Her tone was calm andposed, yet Edward Stephens detected a certain underlying meaning.


    He furrowed his brows slightly and retorted, "When else have I not arrived on time? You can¡¯t keep adding inexplicable charges against me."


    Daisy Ginger pressed her lips together, looked at him for a moment, and finally, without a word, withdrew her gaze as if there was nothing more to say, grabbed her bag, and left.


    Edward Stephens had no choice but to reach out and grasp her wrist. In a low, hoarse voice, he said helplessly, "Daisy, can you be reasonable?"


    "..."


    "I left very early that day." Edward exined to her, "But halfway through, I received a call from Emily Ginger."


    "..."


    "She was arguing with Ian Linton. I wasn¡¯t interested and was about to hang up," Edward said, furrowing his brow slightly, "but then I heard a strange noise. It sounded as if...someone was drowning," he said this as if uncertain, his tone tinged with hesitation. "I had to go back."


    Daisy stood there, hershes falling, hiding the expression in her eyes.


    "I called you, but it seemed there was a bad signal on your end, and I couldn¡¯t get through." Edward looked down at the wrist he held, so slender, like a young nt¡¯s tender stem, easily breakable with a slight twist. Without reason, he slightly loosened his grip, merely holding her as he pulled her closer. His voice was low, slightly hoarse, with a hint of coaxing, "The text message...you didn¡¯t reply. I came over right after confirming she was fine at the hospital, but...it rained, and I didn¡¯t make it by twelve."


    He reached out, sping her slender waist, pulling her into his arms.


    Daisy struggled a bit, but eventually fell onto hisp, the man sighing lightly as he coaxed in a low voice, "I prepared a birthday gift for you...would you like to see it?"


    Daisy sat quietly on hisp for a while.


    Then she lifted her head and gave him a sarcastic cold smile.


    Seeing her expression, Edward knew that Daisy wasn¡¯t buying it.


    Sure enough, she shook off his hand, stepped on him with her high heel, stood up from his embrace, tidied her shirt, and then lifted her pretty face to give him a harsh, mocking smile: "A hero, Mr. Stephens, should I award you a banner for the top ten model citizens and have it framed for you? You made a promise to me. If you didn¡¯t fulfill it, don¡¯t make excuses. Don¡¯t say that Emily Ginger was on the other end of the line. Even if she had died in front of you, you should havee over. If you can¡¯t do it, don¡¯t promise me. You simply don¡¯t know..."


    She paused here, biting her lower lip harshly until it turned pale, swallowing the rest of the sentence¡ªYou simply don¡¯t know how much I was looking forward to that night.


    Expressing all her joy seemed too cheap; she didn¡¯t want to expose her vulnerability and grievance in front of others, making herself look pitiful.


    Forcing all her pent-up frustration back down, Daisy red at him with resentment, grabbed her bag, and turned to leave.


    Edward watched her back until Daisy¡¯s figure disappeared from sight, then closed his eyes and let out a breath.


    The phone buzzed. He picked it up and answered with a "Hello."


    Ryan Smith¡¯s triumphant voice sounded, "So, did she forgive you?"


    "She stormed off." Edward rolled his eyes and replied irritably.

 Chapter 107: Women Are Unreasonable

    <h4>Chapter 107: Chapter 107: Women Are Unreasonable</h4><h4></h4>


    "She got pissed and left?" Ryan Smith shouted incredulously, seemingly not expecting that his secret techniques in Edward Stephens¡¯ hands could be so powerful, "What did you do?"


    Edward Stephens leaned back in the dining chair,zily ying with the knife and fork, and calmly narrated, "Picked her up after work, gave her flowers, took her to dinner¡ªweren¡¯t those all your teachings?"


    "That¡¯s it?" Ryan¡¯s voice sounded as if he were in front of him now, ready to choke him, "Didn¡¯t I tell you to apologize properly? Edward Stephens, you left a girl hanging, and you apologize with suchck of sincerity, no wonder she¡¯s pissed at you!"


    Edward frowned slightly and responded, "I did apologize. She just wouldn¡¯t ept it."


    "How did you apologize?"


    freew\ebno\vel..(c)om


    "I reasoned with her."


    "..." Ryan almost wanted to howl to the heavens, weakly said through the phone, "Edward, women, do not respond to logic."


    He spoke with an extremely earnest tone, as if stating some profound truth.


    Edward took a drag of his cigarette and said lightly, "Anyway, I did everything you said. It¡¯s your useless advice."


    Seeing that he so casually shifted all the me onto him, Ryan could barely resist bing a huge hammer to smash him.


    He said, "You were wrong to stand her up on her birthday in the first ce. That day, even if it were raining knives, you should¡¯ve gotten there in time for her."


    Under the light, Edward¡¯s noble features looked ever more calm and indifferent. He exhaled a puff of smoke and asked back with an even tone, "Do you expect me to just let her die?"


    In Edward¡¯s indifferent tone, Ryan slowly came to realize¡ªEdward actually had feelings for Emily Ginger.


    On the contrary, it was to Daisy Ginger that his feelings were faint.


    That day, he turned back and chose to save Emily Ginger. It was only natural¡ªbesides, for him, Daisy was just having a birthday, whereas Emily was truly in danger.


    And now, he wanted to make amends with Daisy.


    Maybe it was because he felt guilty about standing her up, or perhaps, as a husband, he had this vague sense of amodation for his wife, or maybe there was a subtle fondness he harbored for Daisy...


    In any case, under some indescribable emotion, he chose to remedy the situation, to ease the tension between them.


    Ryan had never experienced suchplicated emotional issues as Edward. His rtionships were always peaceful, everyone got along well, he never faced the risk of being kicked out like Edward.


    He spected a bunch of ifs and maybes, then sighed into the phone, "I¡¯ve taught you everything I could, but you¡¯re such a useless student, I can¡¯t make bricks without straw."


    Edward scoffed, "Useless."


    Ryan was amused by his audacity, "Alright, I¡¯m useless. I just want to see how you, Mr. Capable, will win your wife¡¯s heart back."


    "Ha." Edward let out a mocking chuckle and abruptly cut off the call.


    He stood up and paid the bill.


    If he knew Ryan was this useless, he wouldn¡¯t have wasted time with him.


    Edward left the restaurant, one hand in his pocket, walking slowly down the street alone, contemting his rtionship with Daisy.


    He walked past a jewelry store.


    Edward stopped, lifted his eyes to the sparkling jewelry in the window lit up like starlight, his gaze falling on a diamond ne.


    After a while, he lightly bit the cigarette end, something appeared in his deep eyes, and he pushed open the jewelry store door, stepping inside.

 Chapter 108: I Want to Break Off the Engagement with Him

    <h4>Chapter 108: Chapter 108: I Want to Break Off the Engagement with Him</h4><h4></h4>


    Daisy Ginger got into the taxi, leaning back in the seat with her eyes closed to rest for a while, then suddenly opened them, "Driver."


    The driver nced at her through the rearview mirror, and Daisy Ginger softly said, "Change the destination, please."


    Half an hourter, the taxi stopped at the entrance of Banyan City First People¡¯s Hospital.


    Daisy Ginger scanned the QR code to pay, stood at the hospital entrance, looked up at the inpatient department, then took out her sunsses from her bag and walked towards the inpatient department discreetly.


    She asked the nurse for Emily Ginger¡¯s room number and took the elevator upstairs.


    It was meal time, and it seemed the patients¡¯ family members had gone to eat as well. The elevator was quiet and clear; Daisy Ginger rode it all the way up without many stops, directly to the twenty-eighth floor.


    Correct content is on freew.ebno(v)e\l.(c)om.


    On the twenty-eighth floor, in the luxury single rooms, Daisy Ginger checked each room by its number until she found Emily Ginger¡¯s room.


    Even before seeing the person, voices could be heard.


    Through the door, Emily Ginger¡¯s frail voice sounded even more delicate.


    "...I don¡¯t care. I want to break off the engagement with him."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s hand paused slightly on the door, her eyes squinting gently.


    Hmm?


    Abigail Perry said, "You¡¯re talking nonsense again. Are you crazy? Breaking off with Ian, where else would you find someone as rich and powerful as him?"


    Emily Ginger¡¯s voice carried a bit of a sob, "Mom, you know how he treats me!"


    "It was an ident," Abigail Perry said, "It¡¯s the first time, isn¡¯t it? Everyone has impulsive moments; you can¡¯t just sentence someone to death over such a small matter."


    Emily Ginger¡¯s voice became sharp, as if Abigail Perry¡¯s words had pushed her to the brink.


    "It¡¯s not an ident! You don¡¯t understand how disgusting he is, Mom! He¡¯ll drive me insane, I can¡¯t be with him anymore..."


    Her weak sobs came from inside the room, and Daisy Ginger, hearing Emily¡¯s words, was a bit taken aback.


    Emily Ginger and Ian Linton¡¯s argument seemed really fierce, huh?


    Not only have they not reconciled yet, but it looks like it¡¯s about to break apartpletely.


    After letting Emily cry for a while, Abigail Perry finally said softly, "Emily, if you break off with Ian, what about the baby in your belly? Abort it, or give birth and let it grow up in a single-parent family? You wanted a father so badly when you were young, do you want your child to follow the same path?"


    Outside the door, Daisy Ginger was stunned.


    Emily Ginger is pregnant?


    Herplex emotions hadn¡¯t fully processed when Abigail Perry¡¯s voice floated over again softly, "Don¡¯t overthink, just sleep a bit. Didn¡¯t the doctor say you¡¯re just newly pregnant, and mood swings are inevitable? Once the baby is born, everything will be alright..."


    At such a time, it doesn¡¯t seem appropriate to visit.


    Daisy Ginger heard Emily¡¯s voice, though weak, still had the strength to cry. She didn¡¯t look like she was on the verge of death, so she pursed her lips and turned to leave.


    "Director Ginger," a voice called from behind, "Are you here to see Emily?"


    Daisy Ginger turned around and saw Ian Linton not far away, carrying a meal box and walking toward her. The young man was well-dressed, wearing a suit, tall and graceful, with a reserved, gentle smile in the sunlight; apart from a few scabbed scratches on his neck that broke the harmony, he looked as calm as ever.


    Daisy Ginger took a few steps toward him, removed her sunsses, and smiled gently at Ian Linton, "Ian, congrats on bing a dad."


    Ian Linton watched her with bright eyes. Upon hearing this, he smiled, with a tinge of reserved embarrassment on his face, "Thank you. To be honest, I¡¯m a bit surprised myself, but I¡¯ll try my best to be a good father."

 Chapter 109: Sending Her Home

    <h4>Chapter 109: Chapter 109: Sending Her Home</h4><h4></h4>


    "If it were you, you¡¯d definitely be a good father." Daisy Ginger chuckled, nodding gently at Ian Linton, "Are you here to bring food to Emily? She just fell asleep. Go ahead and take it; I¡¯m heading home now."


    Their voices seemed to reach inside the hospital room. Abigail Perry popped her head out and, upon seeing Ian, broke into a delighted grin: "Ian, you¡¯re here? It¡¯s really kind of you to bring food every day, even with your busy work. I can handle this small task; you don¡¯t have toe daily."


    Ian responded gently, "Emily and I had a disagreement, and you¡¯ve been taking care of her all day¡ªI really feel guilty about that. I¡¯ve asked the chef to make some nourishing soup for her. Please, go ahead and give it to Emily."


    Abigail stepped forward to take the insted bottle from Ian¡¯s hands and, noticing he didn¡¯t n to visit Emily inside, she asked curiously, "Aren¡¯t youing in, Ian?"


    "Emily just fell asleep, so I won¡¯t disturb her." Ian gave a helpless smile to Abigail, "She¡¯s still mad at me, and I don¡¯t want to irritate her while she¡¯s in the hospital. It¡¯s up to you to deliver it to her."


    Upon hearing Ian¡¯s words, Abigail sighed, "Ah, it¡¯s my fault too. I raised Emily to be too willful..."


    Ian simply smiled, nodded at Abigail, and said, "Thank you for your trouble."


    Abigail nodded in response and took the bottle inside.


    Daisy didn¡¯t have much to say to Abigail either. After Ian finished speaking, she nodded at him and said warmly, "Ian, I¡¯ll head back now."


    "Hold on, Director Ginger," Ian hurried over, "You didn¡¯t drive here, did you? It¡¯s hard to get a cab here; let me give you a ride."


    Daisyughed, "Isn¡¯t that too much trouble for you?"


    "Not at all, I¡¯m heading back too." Ian pulled out his car keys, gave Daisy a smile, and said, "Come on, it¡¯s on the way."


    Of course, the Linton home and Ginger Residence were not on the same route.


    But since Ian volunteered to be the driver, Daisy had no reason to refuse.


    During rush hour, it was hard to get a taxi near the hospital. Daisy didn¡¯t decline; instead, she walked to the elevator with Ian, chatting andughing.


    Once they reached downstairs, Ian asked again, "Care for a bite to eat first?"


    Daisy shook her head, "No need, I had dinner before I came."


    Ian gently offered, "Then I¡¯ll take you home first."


    Daisy felt it wasn¡¯t right to sit in the back and let Ian y chauffeur, so she sat in the passenger seat, ced her bag on herp, and said with a smile, "Ian, you¡¯re really too kind."


    Ian turned his head slightly to look at her. His handsome features were gentle, and he had a shy smile, "It¡¯s my honor to serve you."


    Daisy was amused by his earnest manner, "Ian, you¡¯re exaggerating."


    Ian also smiled but said nothing more.


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    The journey home was very lighthearted and enjoyable.


    Ian was witty and humorous, eloquent yet considerate, and showed her great respect in his words without even a hint of offense.


    In her work, Daisy had encountered many men who underestimated her age and gender. Her face, in her position, wasn¡¯t always an advantage; more often than not, it was a burden.


    Of course, she didn¡¯t really mind it. Being beautiful wasn¡¯t her fault, and she enjoyed seeing the cowering and apprehensive looks on the faces of those men who initially underestimated her when they met again in the business world.

 Chapter 110 Birthday Gift

    <h4>Chapter 110: Chapter 110 Birthday Gift</h4>


    Since she gained a foothold in the Gingers, the men who negotiate and do business with her no longer dare to underestimate her. However, it¡¯s rare in the workce to encounter someone like Ian Linton, who is courteous and treats people with such a refreshing grace.


    The journey from the hospital to the Ginger Residence takes about an hour.


    Ian Linton wasn¡¯t driving fast, andbined with the rush hour traffic, it was already 8 PM by the time they returned to the Ginger Residence.


    Daisy Ginger got out of the car, stood at the door, and waved to Ian inside the car, "Ian, thank you for today. Be safe on the road."


    Ian nodded gently. Just as Daisy was about to enter the gate, he suddenly called out to her: "Director Ginger."


    Daisy paused slightly, turned her head, her clear gaze falling on Ian¡¯s face with a hint of curiosity, "Hmm?"


    View the correct content at free.w e bn.ov(e)l(..


    Ian opened the car door and got out. He held a small white gift box in his hand and handed it to her, his voice warm and gentle, "It was your birthday the day before yesterday, right? I didn¡¯t get a chance to give you a gift, so I¡¯m making it up today. Happy birthday, Director Ginger."


    Daisy was slightly taken aback, her gaze falling on the small gift box in Ian¡¯s palm. She reached out to take it, hesitated for a moment, and then asked with a soft smile, "Can I open it now and take a look?"


    Ian smiled and said, "Of course you can."


    Daisy looked down and opened the white gift box. Inside, two tinum diamond earrings sparkled with a gentle luster under the moonlight.


    The earrings weren¡¯t particrly extravagant gifts but were given appropriately, leaving no room for refusal.


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    Daisy looked at them for a moment, then lifted her head to smile slightly at Ian, "Ian, thank you. I really like this gift."


    To say she wasn¡¯t moved would certainly be a lie.


    On her birthday, aside from a few of her friends, it seemed that no one else remembered.


    Ian, a mere work colleague with no personal ties, remembered her birthday and even prepared a special gift for her. Daisy was touched by his thoughtfulness.


    Emily Ginger really found a wonderful husband. Abigail Perry¡¯s taste is indeed quite impressive.


    Ian looked at her, the smile on his face bing even softer as he gently said, "I¡¯m d you like it."


    Daisy nodded, watching Ian get into the car, before she turned and went into the house.


    Receiving the gift felt really nice, sweeping away the unpleasantness of having lunch with Edward Stephens in the afternoon. Daisy hummed a little tune as she walked into the hall.


    Behind her, Ian had already turned the car around but hadn¡¯t driven away. He turned his head, his gaze falling on the slender silhouette of the woman not far away.


    The clear moonlight in the courtyard enveloped her like a thin veil, making her look so real, yet so ethereal...


    It wasn¡¯t until Daisy¡¯s figurepletely disappeared from view that Ian gripped the steering wheel and drove forward.


    *


    Daisy soaked in a hot bath, walking out of the bathroom with steam clinging to her body.


    Shezily wore a bathrobe, holding a hairdryer, and sat in front of the vanity as she dried her hair for a while.


    Then, her gaze flickered over to the gift Ian had given her today.


    Thinking of those tinum earrings, Daisy put down the hairdryer and reached out to open the gift box, taking out the earrings.


    The earrings were of amon size, without any borate carvings, but adorned with tiny diamonds that sparkled under the light like a sky full of stars.


    Daisy put on the earrings in front of the mirror and took a look.


    Hmm, they do quite match her aesthetic.


    *


    Remember to vote~

 Chapter 111: Men and Women Should Not Have Physical Contact

    <h4>Chapter 111: Chapter 111: Men and Women Should Not Have Physical Contact</h4>


    The next day after work, Edward Stephens came again.


    Daisy Ginger just nced at him and didn¡¯t pay any attention to him.


    She drove her silver BMW out of the garage, heading home.


    In the rearview mirror, Edward Stephens¡¯ ck Bentley followed her at a steady distance.


    She could even clearly see the man¡¯s confidently poised face.


    She had been spoiled since childhood, her temper was never very good. When she was young, Edward¡¯s broad-minded tolerance indulged her whims. If she wanted the Dixon family¡¯s cold noodles, they had to be delivered to her by midnight, not a minute less.


    Only the Edward of the past could tolerate that.


    This birthday, Edward didn¡¯t arrive on time. Although he had a valid reason, her tendency to be difficult red up, and she felt ufortable without making a fuss.


    She didn¡¯t really expect the current Edward to coax her much. She just nned to let it go after some time and calm herself down.


    Unexpectedly, Edward turned out to be quite patient, having been ignored for so long, yet he remained quite sincere.


    The BMW stopped on the Ginger Residence¡¯swn, Daisy went inside to change her shoes and asked the servant, "When will dinner be ready?"


    "Dinner is already being prepared." The servant was very respectful to her and said gently, "Would the youngdy like to eat first? I can serve it as each dish is prepared."


    She nced at the man casually walking in from outside with one hand in his pocket. He seemed at home here, without any inconvenience, put on the slippers handed over by the servant, and walked towards her.


    Daisy shot him a nce, stood up from the sofa, and told the servant, "Serve dinner."


    Saying that, she turned and went into the dining room.


    Edward paused, nced at her back¡ªshe was still mad.


    After the victory deration ended in failure yesterday, he blocked Ryan Smith, leaving him holding flowers in embarrassment, achieving nothing in the end.


    Daisy sat down in the dining room, took a sip of wine, and then saw Edward walk in and sit across from her.


    She treated him as if he were air, calmly eating her dinner without acknowledging him at all.


    After dinner, she went upstairs.


    Edward followed her, walking leisurely.


    Daisy passed by the study room, nced at him, but ultimately did not go inside.


    She returned to her bedroom.


    When she was about to close the door, Edward¡¯s hand pressed against it. Daisy tried to close it a few times but couldn¡¯t overpower his strength, so she simply opened the door and stood at the entrance, looking at him with aposed expression.


    "Not letting me in?" he asked quite matter-of-factly.


    Daisy replied calmly, "We¡¯re a man and a woman, shouldn¡¯t be in close contact."


    She hadn¡¯t seen her exercise any restraint when entering his room.


    Edward looked at her, charming yet cold face, and coaxed her, "I bought you a gift, don¡¯t you want to take a look?"


    Daisy sneered, "Not interested."


    She turned away without looking at him, went over to the vanity, and started removing her makeup while tying her hair up.


    It was Edward¡¯s first time in Daisy¡¯s boudoir; her room reflected her personality¡ªck and gray tones, minimalist Nordic style, without unnecessary decorations, simr to her apartment in the city center, only livelier here with people, not as cold and empty.


    He looked around with interest. The counter was lined with trophies frompetitions Daisy had won since childhood, piled up densely. There was also a photo album on the counter. Edward reached out, about to pick it up, when a slender hand snatched the seemingly older, weathered photo album away.


    "Master Stephens, hasn¡¯t anyone ever told you that you shouldn¡¯t randomly touch others¡¯ belongings in their home?"

 Chapter 112: Her Birthday Gift

    <h4>Chapter 112: Chapter 112: Her Birthday Gift</h4>


    Daisy¡¯s voice carried a hint of displeasure.


    Edward turned his head and watched Daisy, as if guarding against thieves, lock that old photo album into the cab.


    He wasn¡¯t particrly interested in seeing it, leaning against the counter, looking at her a few times, and couldn¡¯t help but smile helplessly, "Still angry?"


    Daisy rolled her eyes at him, "If you have nothing to do, you can go to the hospital to see Emily Ginger."


    She was still jealous.


    Edward muttered, "Is this something that can¡¯t be let go?"


    Daisy turned around, not even looking at him, and walked towards the door.


    She had a pile of documents unfinished, no time to flirt with Edward.


    The man sighed softly, sping her slender wrist, "Where are you going, didn¡¯t I say I¡¯m giving you a gift?"


    Daisy nced at her hand being held, and said coldly, "Not interested."


    "Really not nning to take a look?" He pulled her over, coaxing, "I selected it carefully, very beautiful, and it suits you."


    "..." Daisy¡¯s long eyshes fluttered as she looked up at the man¡¯s deep eyes under the dim light, like a gentle arc of light cast on him, reminding her of the time Edward held her tofort her.


    She pursed her lips slightly, stubbornly said, "Not interested. Use it yourself."


    As she moved, there was a flickering light near her ear.


    Edward nced over, his slightly cool fingers reached out, touched her earlobe, "When did you buy this, why haven¡¯t you ever worn it..."


    Before finishing the sentence, Daisy pped his hand away hard, "Don¡¯t touch randomly! It¡¯s a birthday gift from someone else!"


    Edward winced in pain, withdrew his hand, then disdainfully nced at the tinum ear studs sparkling with a silver sheen, "What kind of taste."


    Daisy was initially interested; hearing Edward say that, she increasingly felt that this man, apart from his face attracting attention everywhere, was worthless, yet dared to diss her taste. She red at him and reached out to push him away, but Edward held on, so Daisy simply bent her head and bit his hand hard, catching Edward off guard; he instinctively flung her away.


    Daisy was light, and in an instant, her entire body was flung away by him. He reacted and reached out to catch her, but toote to dodge, they both fell onto the floor with a loud "thud."


    Daisy groggily climbed out of the man¡¯s embrace, startled by the sound of Edward falling to the ground¡ªhis athletic reflexes were better than hers, and beforending, he had already wrapped her in his arms, all the weight pressing on him alone. The sound of bare skin hitting the floor made one¡¯s teeth ache.


    "Edward Stephens, are you stupid!" She climbed up, angrily couldn¡¯t help but curse him.


    "You bite people and curse them?" Edward sat up from the floor holding his head, hisplexion looking slightly pale, Daisy watched and felt incredibly heartbroken and reached out to touch the back of his head, only for the man to catch her hand, preventing her from moving.


    "You¡¯re still..." Daisy thought he was going to mess with her again, anxious couldn¡¯t help but swear at him, until an icy thing was suddenly slipped onto her ring finger.


    Daisy sat on him, her whole body slightly trembling, a little incredulous as she looked at the man¡¯s face.


    Edward seemed to smile, his features stunningly handsome under the light, his voice gentle and deep, "Why are you looking at me? Aren¡¯t you going to look at your birthday gift?"

 Chapter 113: Obsessed 1

    <h4>Chapter 113: Chapter 113: Obsessed 1</h4>


    Daisy Ginger slightly lowered her head, her eyes falling on where the man¡¯s fingers gently moved away from her hand, revealing the tinum diamond ring shimmering on her ring finger.


    "What¡¯s this?" Her voice sounded a bit hoarse, her throat inexplicably catching, slightly stiff.


    "Your birthday gift."


    Daisy pursed her lips, nitpicking, "No one gives a diamond ring for someone else¡¯s birthday."


    Edward Stephensy back on the floor helplessly, couldn¡¯t help butugh softly, the vibration in his chest transmitted to his aching back, he took a low breath before saying, "Well, there¡¯s nothing I can do, this is all I could get."


    Daisy knew Edward could see she really liked it and was deliberately teasing her; she puffed her cheeks and raised her hand to punch him hard on the chest. "What about the other one?"


    Edward reached into his pants pocket and pulled out a small velvet gift box.


    Daisy took it, lowering her head to open it, revealing a men¡¯s tinum diamond ring shing before her eyes.


    "Stretch out your hand." Shemanded, feigning a fierce tone.


    Edward looked at her expression, chuckled softly, and extended his right hand to her.


    Daisy lowered her eyes, reached out, and gently grasped his muchrger palm, slowly sliding that men¡¯s diamond ring onto his ring finger.


    Lying on the floor, from Edward¡¯s angle, he could see Daisy¡¯s thick, long eyshes and perfectly shaped petite nose. Her expression was focused and serious, making her stunning face even more alluring.


    The cold ring on his ring finger gradually warmed with body heat, and this finger, which had never worn any ornament before, now bore this unfamiliar encumbrance, feeling a bit strange and ufortable.


    Edward curled his fingers, experiencing the sensation of being bound, then finally raised his eyes to look at Daisy sitting on his chest.


    She looked down at him, her eyes bright and shining, clearly no longer angry.


    Seeing him look over, she pouted arrogantly, speaking to him in an aggressively mean tone, "What are you looking at? Is lying on the floorfortable? Hurry up and get up."


    Edward couldn¡¯t help but sigh, "You¡¯re sitting on me and still want me to get up, Director Ginger, aren¡¯t you being a bit unreasonable?"


    Daisy seemed to only then realize she¡¯d been using Edward as a bench the whole time, her fair little face blushing slightly, she struggled to get up.


    Before she could push herself up, her slender waist was suddenly captured by the man¡¯s hand, her perspective flipped, and Edward pressed her onto the cold floor.


    "You..."


    Daisy¡¯s breath momentarily hitched, looking at the man¡¯s face so close, the words she wanted to say were swallowed by his warm breath.


    So close, their breathing intertwined, it seemed she only needed to lift her head slightly to easily kiss him.


    She couldn¡¯t help but look into his eyes, those deep, dark eyes reflecting her slightly dazed expression, Edward¡¯s figure against the light making his gaze appear even deeper, as if to drown someone in his pitch-ck eyes.


    Her heartbeat involuntarily elerated, she stared at his eyes, not blinking for a moment.


    But suddenly, Edward released her and stood up from the floor, his tall, slender body turned away, blocking a beam of light in front of her.


    "I think I hurt my back," he said, "It hurts a bit."


    Daisy was taken aback, looking at his back, there was an obvious red and swollen bruise on his fair neck.


    "Oh, I¡¯ll get some ointment." Daisy stood up, patted her dress, nced at Edward¡¯s back once more, then pursed her lips and went out the door.

 Chapter 114: Bewitched 2

    <h4>Chapter 114: Chapter 114: Bewitched 2</h4>


    After Daisy Ginger left, Edward Stephens slowly exhaled a breath. He leaned against the counter, looking down at his right hand adorned with a tinum diamond ring, recalling his actions just now, and his brows gradually furrowed.


    A moment of madness.


    What was he trying to do just then?


    He almost...


    Unconsciously, he fished out a cigarette from his pocket, and only after taking a slow drag, did his thoughts begin to cool down amidst the biting taste of the tobo.


    Such a beautiful woman, it was perfectly normal for him to have a moment of impulsion.


    Moreover, that beautiful woman is now his woman in name; whatever he did to her, he had thew on his side.


    --- It was simply testing his self-control.


    If he didn¡¯t feel anything, he wouldn¡¯t be a man.


    *


    Daisy Ginger returned with a bottle of opened medicated oil.


    "There¡¯s no ointment at home," she opened the medicated oil, and the strong medicinal smell wafted out, as she motioned toward Edward Stephens with a nod, "Take off your shirt, I¡¯ll give you a rub."


    Edward Stephens indeed wrinkled his brow in that awful smell, "Forget it. I don¡¯t want to step out with this smell all over me."


    "You don¡¯t have a say in this." Daisy Ginger leisurely poured some medicated oil into her hand, looking at Edward Stephens with a half-smile, "Are you going to take it off yourself or do you want me to do it for you?"


    "...Is this how you treat someone who gave you a birthday gift?" Edward Stephensined speechlessly, but still resignedly sat down on the sofa.


    He took off his shirt, revealing a perfectly toned upper body.


    "This isn¡¯t a treatment just anyone gets."


    Daisy Ginger moved around to his back and discovered four or five bruises on his fair back. He had fallen quite heavily; several spots were bruised and swollen, and yet he did not utter a word.


    "Cry out if it hurts." Daisy Gingerforted.


    Edward Stephens snorted: "You¡¯re so full of nonsense."


    Daisy Ginger nced at him and forcefully pressed her medicated-oil-covered hand onto Edward Stephens¡¯ back.


    Edward Stephens shuddered lightly, the muscles of his back tensing instantly, as he let out a faint hiss, and then heard Daisy Ginger¡¯s yful voice: "Does it hurt?"


    This vindictive woman!


    I wonder how a disagreeable personality like that is cultivated.


    Edward Stephens: "I should have used you as a cushion earlier."


    Daisy Ginger proudly lifted her chin at him, softening her movements to help him rx and promote cirction and dissipate stasis.


    The medicated oil was cool, and Daisy Ginger¡¯s hand temperature was low too, but when itnded on the red and swollen, feverish skin, it brought more stimtion than pain.


    As the medicinal smell gradually dispersed with the rise in body temperature, Edward Stephens sat on the sofa, feeling Daisy Ginger¡¯s movements were very gentle. Though having such a bad temper, she seemed very tender in this aspect of taking care of people...


    He lifted his head and met Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze.


    Daisy Ginger stood behind the sofa, looking down at him, thinking he looked a bit silly like that, couldn¡¯t help butugh, "What?"


    "Nothing."


    She reached out and pinched his face.


    Leaving a face full of medicated oil on him.


    Edward Stephens lifted his hand, reaching toward her ear.


    At this moment, his body temperature seemed a few degrees higher than hers, causing her to shiver sensitively as his fingersnded on her earlobe.


    "Who gave it to you?" Edward Stephens suddenly asked.


    Daisy Ginger shot him a sideways nce with her pretty eyes, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "Don¡¯t wear it anymore."


    Daisy Ginger snorted twice: "Why?"


    She kneaded him once or twice with force, the man¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, and then he reached out to grab the hand she pressed on his shoulder.


    "Didn¡¯t I give you one? Just wear mine."

 Chapter 115: Who Sent It?

    <h4>Chapter 115: Chapter 115: Who Sent It?</h4>


    "I already gave you some, didn¡¯t I? Just wear mine."


    His voice waszy, with a maicziness peculiar to men, as he casually yed with the diamond ring on her ring finger.


    Daisy lowered her gaze to his long, fair fingers and huffed twice, "You didn¡¯t give me any earrings."


    Edward¡¯s long, charming eyes nced at her face, a yful smile on his lips, "You¡¯re too greedy, wanting two sets of jewelry for your birthday."


    Daisy gave him a sideways nce, "Suit yourself."


    It¡¯s not like she can¡¯t afford it. Hmph.


    Edward squeezed her hand, his voice low as he negotiated, "If you change those earrings, I¡¯ll give you another gift, how about it?"


    Daisy looked at him, blinked lightly, then pinched his face hard and snorted, "No."


    She retracted her hand from his shoulder, put the cap back on the medicated oil, and turned to leave.


    Edward swept his long arm and pulled her back by the waist, his chin resting in the nook of her shoulder as he asked, not very happily, "Who gave them to you? They¡¯re such a treasure, and I can¡¯t trade you for them?"


    Daisy fell back onto hisp, his bare chest pressed against her back, his words causing slight vibrations in his chest, warm breaths grazing her ear.


    Daisy¡¯s snow-white cheeks flushed a bit, she turned her head away, using her elbow to keep him at bay, "Don¡¯t touch me, you smell horrible!"


    Edward¡¯s face darkened, grinding his teeth, "You know it smells bad?" She thered so much on him! Who knows if the smell will disperse by tomorrow.


    "Who¡¯s calling you so clumsy," she lifted her chin, "tripping at your age."


    Edward rolled his eyes, toozy to argue, seized the chance while she wasn¡¯t paying attention, and quickly took off the earring on her right ear, "Not allowed to wear it."


    Daisy only felt a chill on her ear as one earring was snatched by Edward. She stood up from hisp, protecting her other ear, ring at him, "Edward Stephens, what are you doing!"


    "Did Ethan give it to you?" Edward asked.


    Daisy frowned, displeased, "None of your business." She extended her hand, "Give it back!"


    "I¡¯ll give you something else tomorrow." Edward pocketed the earring, looking all self-assured, and he winked at her mysteriously, "You¡¯ll surely like it."


    Daisy gave him a sideways nce, wondering what nonsense he was on about, why can¡¯t she wear a birthday gift from someone else? Why should she only wear what he gives?


    But arguing with him over a pair of earrings seemed too boring, she nced at him, opened the door and handed the medicated oil to the servant at the door, then turned to Edward, "I¡¯m going to the study. If you¡¯ve got nothing to do, go home."


    Edward rose from the sofa, hands in his pockets, sounding a bitzy, "How could you, ept a gift and then chase the person away?"


    Daisy gave him a sly nce, "Then y by yourself."


    She has a lot of work to do, no time to chat with Edward.


    "I¡¯ll give you new earrings tomorrow, don¡¯t wear these."


    Daisy lifted her chin arrogantly, "We¡¯ll see."


    Edward looked down at her, as if she was so morally reprehensible, sighed helplessly, "See you tomorrow then."


    Daisy huffed slightly, gazed at his face for a moment, then stretched out her arm to wrap around his neck, stood on tiptoe, and kissed him lightly on the lips, "Off you go."

 Chapter 116: Are You Going to Support Me?

    <h4>Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Are You Going to Support Me?</h4>


    Edward Stephens gazed at her bright eyes, brushed his fingertips over the lips she had kissed, then lifted his hand to ruffle her hair a few times. "Get some early sleep, no need to work sote every day."


    Daisy Ginger nced at him, "Are you going to support me?"


    Edward Stephens chuckled softly, a hint of nonchnce in his tone, "You and I can afford it."


    Look at him being all smug.


    Daisy Ginger lifted her chin slightly, "I like to be self-reliant."


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t say anything more, changed his clothes, apanied Daisy Ginger to the study, and thenzily walked out of the Ginger Residence alone.


    After coaxing her into a good mood, the weight he¡¯d been carrying for days was lifted. He sent a text message to his mother, opened the car door, and got in.


    Sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, he reached into his pocket for a cigarette, didn¡¯t find one, and instead pulled out a small tinum earring.


    Leaningzily against the leather seat, Edward Stephens raised an eyebrow to examine the surprisingly intricate earring, then rolled down the window and tossed it out with disdain.


    What taste.


    Ugly.


    *


    After nearly a week¡¯s absence, Edward Stephens finally returned home rightfully.


    Lady Stephens was sitting on the sofa and when she saw him return, she raised her chin at him, "Stop."


    Edward Stephens halted, nced at his mother.


    "Where¡¯s Daisy?"


    "..." Edward Stephens replied, "At her house."


    Lady Stephens squinted suspiciously, "Edward Stephens, you wouldn¡¯t be lying to me, would you!"


    Edward Stephens wanted to roll his eyes but held back, gritting his teeth and putting on a fake smile, "Why don¡¯t you call her and ask?"


    "Hmph." Lady Stephens huffed with pride, "Your wife almost got scared away, and you¡¯re still so smug!"


    Edward Stephens had no interest in arguing with her, slid one hand into his pocket, and headed upstairs.


    Behind him, Lady Stephens¡¯s voice came through.


    "How long has it been since you contacted your elder brother?" Lady Stephens said gently, "Remember to send him a message to let him know you¡¯re safe."


    Edward Stephens paused, was silent for a while, said nothing, and continued walking up the stairs.


    Lady Stephens watched his back, silently letting out a gentle sigh.


    *


    Edward Stephens went upstairs, took a shower in the bathroom, and when he came out, he couldn¡¯t help but sniff his arms, feeling that the medicinal scent hadn¡¯t dissipated.


    His sense of smell is more acute than most, and the scent of medicinal oil is so strong, it nearly suffocates him.


    Edward Stephens opened the window for venttion, sat shirtless on the sofa, biting on a cigarette, and typed a name into hisptop.


    A bunch of news articles about that man popped up on the screen.


    He browsed for a while, and thetest news about that person only went up to eight years ago.


    At that time, Robert Stephens was twenty-five, just bing the chairman of the Stephens Group, the most triumphant and radiant period of his life.


    He was eight years his senior, like a light, so dazzling and magnificent, illuminating his life. In his shadow, he grew secretly with pride.


    Until one day, Robert Stephens had a car ident.


    Thest news photo captured by the media was of Robert Stephens attending a fashion party in Paris.


    The young and noble man, seated among thevish surroundings, moved with the grace of an emperor, utterly domineering. His eyes, holding a faint smile, still carried remnants of a disdainful shadow, both audacious and dignified.


    Edward Stephens closed the notebook, stood silently from the sofa, walked to the window, and looked at the cold moon outside.


    He used to be the brother he was most proud of.


    And now...


    His eyes darkened, he slowly inhaled, the view bing profound in the faint mist.

 Chapter 117: Not Sent by Ethan Pond

    <h4>Chapter 117: Chapter 117: Not Sent by Ethan Pond</h4>


    The next day, just after getting off work, Daisy Ginger received a string of tinum bracelets and a pair of diamond earrings.


    Edward Stephens raised his chin at her, "Put them on and see."


    He looked quite proud.


    Daisy nced at him, then at the two sets of jewelry in her hand, inwardly thinking this guy must be addicted to giving gifts.


    Daisy put the items away, "No, thanks."


    Edward nced at her, directly took the earrings from her hand, and raised his chin at her, "Bring your face closer."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Edward Stephens, do you have to be so childish?"


    The man ignored her, just reached out, touched her earlobe, and put one earring on her right ear.


    Then he personally put the other one on her opposite ear.


    After doing all this, he seemed satisfied, ced his hands on the steering wheel, looked ahead, and lightly asked, "Where do you want to eat?"


    Daisy touched her ears and looked in the mirror. The earrings Edward bought were pink diamonds, reflecting subtly between her strands of hair.


    Edward sounded somewhat smug, "Aren¡¯t they prettier than the ones Ethan Pond gave you?"


    Daisy finallyughed, "They weren¡¯t from Ethan Pond."


    Childish or what, is he onlyparing himself to Ethan when he loses a fight?


    "Oh." Hearing that they weren¡¯t from Ethan, Edward instantly lost interest, but he still emphasized, "Mine are prettier."


    Daisy humored him, "Yes, yes, yes."


    Edward shot her a sideways nce, seeing her teasing smile, flicked her on the forehead, "Anything in particr you want to eat?"


    Daisy looked down at her phone to search, "There¡¯s a new Northwestern restaurant recently opened in Yintai, how about trying it out?"


    Edward agreed, and, following the GPS, drove to Yintai City.


    Just before getting off work, Yintai City was packed with people, making a striking scene with handsome men and beautiful women in the crowd. Daisy ignored the nces around and pulled Edward¡¯s hand towards the elevator.


    Daisy quickly found the new restaurant, but it was too crowded. She went inside to ask and learned there was almost a half-hour wait. Just as she was considering giving up, she heard Ian Linton¡¯s voice from behind, "Director Ginger, are you here to eat as well?"


    Daisy turned around to see three people standing behind, not just Ian Linton, but Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger were also there.


    Emily Ginger seemed to have just been discharged from the hospital, looking a bit pale despite wearing a bright-colored dress. She stood slightly bowed next to Abigail Perry. Hearing Ian Linton¡¯s voice, she slowly raised her head and looked at Daisy.


    Her gaze was empty, her eyes appeared much duller than before, and she seemed a bit out of it,cking vitality. Daisy couldn¡¯t help but give her a few more nces, thinking she looked a bit odd.


    But after all, they weren¡¯t familiar, not particrly close, so Daisy quickly withdrew her gaze, saying to Ian Linton, "Yes, I came here with Edward to eat, but it¡¯s full, so I nned to choose another ce."


    Ian Linton said, "Today Emily was discharged, I booked a private room for eight. If Director Ginger and Young Master Stevens don¡¯t mind, why not join us?"


    Daisy turned her head to look at Edward standing behind her. Edward appeared indifferent, lifting one hand to pinch her earlobe casually, saying, "I don¡¯t mind."


    He seemed truly satisfied with the pair of earrings he chose, and Daisy¡¯s ears tingled from his pinching. She pped his paw away, then looked up at Ian Linton and said, "Let¡¯s eat together then, Ian."

 Chapter 118: Preparing to Become a Mother

    <h4>Chapter 118: Chapter 118: Preparing to Be a Mother</h4>


    Ian Linton¡¯s gaze lingered slightly on her ear, his eyes seemingly froze for a moment, showing a hint of surprise.


    Soon, that trace of shock disappeared from his eyes, his elegant and handsome face revealing a faint smile, as he gestured for Daisy Ginger and the others to proceed.


    "Let¡¯s go, Edward." Daisy Ginger turned her head, looking toward Edward Stephens behind her. He seemed to be still examining her earrings, not lifting his head much. Daisy Ginger smiled, reaching out to hold his warm fingers, and walked towards the private room with him.


    Abigail Perry¡¯s attention didn¡¯t seem focused on them. When Ian Linton invited her and Edward Stephens to dine together, she didn¡¯t really respond, just cautiously holding Emily Ginger¡¯s arm, nervously reminding her when they passed the steps.


    Emily Ginger remained silent the entire time, standing beside Abigail Perry, her head lowered, not ncing towards her and Edward Stephens even once. Sometimes, she would subconsciously touch her abdomen with one hand, her expression carrying the unique cautiousness of a new mother-to-be.


    She was already prepared to be a mother. Daisy Ginger watched her, pondering silently. A few days ago, she heard that Emily was going to call off the engagement with Ian Linton, and thought something had happened between them.


    Now it seems, after all, it¡¯s just a normal couple¡¯s quarrel.


    The arrival of this child seems to havepletely redirected her attention away from Edward Stephens.


    Daisy Ginger curved her lips, feeling that things seemed to be progressing more and more in the direction she hoped.


    The five of them took their seats.


    The dishes Ian Linton ordered were quickly brought to the table.


    Cumin roasted ribs,rge te chicken, oil-braised shrimp, sliced beef...


    Daisy Ginger nced over a few times, discovering that most of them were things she liked to eat or could stomach.


    This ce is truly a treasure, she coulde here with Edward Stephens more often.


    Ian Linton used serving chopsticks to give Emily Ginger a piece of rib, and then gave Daisy Ginger an oil-braised shrimp, smiling as he said to Daisy Ginger, "Director Ginger, this restaurant¡¯s oil-braised shrimp is a specialty, I wonder if you¡¯d like it."


    Daisy Ginger really loved shrimp, no matter how it¡¯s cooked, she thanked him and then tossed the shrimp onto Edward Stephens¡¯ te, "Peel it for me."


    Edward Stephens nced at her with her justified look, and then pushed the shrimp back into Daisy Ginger¡¯s bowl, saying inly, "Peel it yourself if you want to eat."


    Daisy Ginger pouted, and Ian Linton stepped in to smooth things over. He put on disposable gloves, saying gently to Daisy Ginger, "Director Ginger, if you like, let me help you."


    This time, it was Daisy Ginger¡¯s turn to feel a bit embarrassed. She coughed softly a few times and said to Ian Linton, "Ian, no need, I can do it myself."


    She wasn¡¯t spoiled to the extent of needing others to peel shrimp and feed her, she just wanted to eat the ones Edward Stephens peeled for her.


    Ian Linton quickly peeled two shrimps for her and ced them in Daisy Ginger¡¯s te. Edward Stephens was eating roasted beef, nced up at Ian.


    Ian Linton turned his head to look at him, smiling gently, and asked, "Edward, would you like some wine? The rice wine here is quite nice too."


    His smile was gentle, on a youthful, handsome face, without the slightest aggression.


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze: "No need. I have to driveter."


    The meal was eaten as usual, Abigail Perry did not create any ruckus, always bustling around her daughter, serving her yam soup, peeling shrimps, giving her dishes.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s expression was always calm. She ate her meal quietly, not interacting much with Abigail Perry. With her pregnancy, she seemed to have matured a lot, bing quiet, with a gentle stability beneath her frail appearance.

 Chapter 119: Don’t get too close to Ian Linton

    <h4>Chapter 119: Chapter 119: Don¡¯t get too close to Ian Linton</h4>


    After dinner, Edward Stephens went out to pay the bill.


    Ian Linton seemed a bit embarrassed, but since Edward insisted on paying, he naturally didn¡¯t argue, only saying that next time he would treat.


    Emily Ginger and Abigail Perry went out, Daisy Ginger stood at the door of the private room, waiting for Edward to return.


    "Director Ginger."


    Ian Linton¡¯s voice came from the front, Daisy looked up and smiled at Ian who was walking towards her, "Why are you back?"


    "Emily left her phone in the private room, I came back to get it." He entered the room and found a phone with a pink case at Emily¡¯s seat, and as he passed by Daisy on his way out, he suddenly stopped and asked gently, "Why didn¡¯t you wear it? You don¡¯t like it?"


    Daisy was looking down at her WeChat, and didn¡¯t react immediately to Ian¡¯s words, she lifted her head to look at him.


    The man stood about a step away from her, the restaurant was brightly lit, his handsome and elegant face seemed so close, his amber eyes held a hint of inquiry, his gaze was fixed on her face.


    Was he too close?


    This thought was quickly drowned by the feeling of embarrassment that came after she realized.


    "Ahem." She coughed lightly, "No... I really like it, that¡¯s why I kept it safe."


    Ian looked at her quietly, his eyes deepened a little, and he said softly, "If you like it, you should wear it more. It¡¯s not something worth collecting, keeping it stored away is such a waste."


    Daisy felt quite ashamed by his words.


    The gift was received less than a day ago, and Edward quickly managed to lose one piece, Ian¡¯s good intentions were all let down by that scoundrel Edward.


    But with Ian here right now, she couldn¡¯t very well tell him that the gift he gave her now only has one piece left.


    She needed to think of a way, to buy another one from the store.


    Daisy felt conflicted, Ian¡¯s gaze fell beside her ear, and suddenly he stepped forward, lowering his voice, "Director Ginger now likes this kind of..."


    Before he finished his sentence, Edward¡¯s voice came from behind, "Daisy."


    On instinct, Daisy turned her head to see Edward standing not far away, her delicate face brightened into a smile, she didn¡¯t hear what Ian was saying and rushed towards Edward.


    "Edward, you¡¯re back." She took his arm and looked up at him.


    Edward nced at her, responded lightly, and then looked up at Ian not far away.


    Ian¡¯s expression was as usual, under the light he was gentle and graceful, smiling as he spoke to Edward and Daisy, "Director Ginger, Young Master Edward, I will take Emily home first."


    Daisy nodded, feeling a bit guilty in response to Ian¡¯s smile, "Ian, be careful on the road."


    Ian nodded slightly and left with Emily¡¯s phone.


    Watching Ian leave, Edward lowered his head to look at her, "Howe I didn¡¯t know you two have so much to talk about?"


    He shouldn¡¯t have brought it up, as soon as he did, Daisy was incensed.


    She red at him with zing eyes, poking his chest with her finger, "You have some nerve. You better return the earring Ian gave me!"


    With the corner of his eye, Edward nced at her, speaking evenly, "That earring was from Ian?"


    Daisy: "And you lost one of them!"


    Edward replied calmly, "Mine was prettier."


    How narcissistic, even now.


    Daisy rolled her eyes at him, "Ian¡¯s was definitely prettier."


    "Mine was prettier." He replied indifferently.


    Daisy walked ahead in a huff.


    Edward followedzily behind her, "By the way, don¡¯t get too close to Ian."


    Daisy stopped and gave him a look, "You don¡¯t get too close to Emily."


    Edward: "..."


    Alright, conversation¡¯s over.

 Chapter 120: He investigated all her preferences.

    <h4>Chapter 120: Chapter 120: He investigated all her preferences.</h4>


    When Daisy Ginger¡¯s silhouette, arm in arm with Edward Stephens,pletely disappeared from sight, Ian Linton finally stepped out from the corner.


    His jade-like face showed a faint expression.


    Thinking of the pale pink earrings on Daisy Ginger¡¯s ears, a storm seemed to brew in the man¡¯s amber eyes.


    He had investigated all her preferences.


    What she liked to eat, what she didn¡¯t like to eat, what colors she liked, what colors she didn¡¯t like, ces she liked to go, ces she didn¡¯t like to go, people she liked, people she didn¡¯t like...


    As long as it was hers, he only needed to close his eyes, and it would be archived in his mind.


    He knew she liked tinum, so he gave her tinum earrings.


    But she didn¡¯t like pink diamonds, yet wore them in her ears.


    Ian Linton lit a cigarette, his handsome face was shrouded in a faint chill, this gentle young man now seemed unapproachable.


    The phone rang, and he nced at it, seeing that it was Abigail Perry calling, he leaned against the wall and answered it with a faint "Hello."


    "Ian, where are you now?" Abigail Perry asked cautiously, "Emily is feeling a bit unwell in her stomach..."


    "I have some things to take care of." Ian Linton replied gently. If Abigail Perry were standing in front of him, she would notice his face was expressionless at the moment, "Auntie, could you please help me take Emily home? I have to make a trip to thepanyter."


    "I see..." Abigail Perry seemed a bit disappointed, but she agreed, "Then I¡¯ll take Emily home, you go back early to apany Emily."


    "Okay, I will."


    Ian Linton hung up the phone and turned to leave.


    In the taxi, Abigail Perry put away her phone and said to Emily Ginger, who was bowing her head and ying with her phone, "Emily, Ian said he needs to go back to thepanyter, so let¡¯s head back first."


    Emily Ginger¡¯s expression remained indifferent, her delicate, petite face looked somewhat cold under the glow of the phone screen. When she heard Ian Linton wouldn¡¯te back, she didn¡¯t react much. She was focused on searching information about pregnancy precautions on her phone, going through the information piece by piece. It seemed at this moment, apart from the child in her womb, neither her mother nor her fianc¨¦ mattered anymore.


    Seeing her daughter ignoring her, Abigail Perry sighed lightly, gave the address to the driver, and then reached out to hold Emily Ginger¡¯s icy hand, "Emily, take good care of the baby, once you give birth to the child, your life will beplete. Ian will definitely be a good father, just think how happy you three will be as a family."


    Emily Ginger¡¯s eyes shifted slightly, and she lowered her gaze to look at her still somewhat t belly. She wasn¡¯t very interested in what Abigail Perry was saying; whether Ian Linton would like this child, she no longer cared.


    This child was something she had, for the first time in her life, thatpletely belonged to her. She was always losing things she couldn¡¯t regain, but this child was growing inside her, her flesh and blood, a bond no one could take away.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s pale face finally showed some vitality, she smiled softly and said, "I want to give it a name as soon as possible."


    Seeing the smile on her face, Abigail Perry couldn¡¯t help but smile too and teased, "It¡¯s only been a little over a month, you don¡¯t even know if it¡¯s a boy or a girl, why are you in such a hurry? But, it would be best if it¡¯s a boy, then the Linton family..."


    "Whether it¡¯s a boy or a girl, I like them both." Emily Ginger interrupted her, "I don¡¯t care whether my child can inherit the Linton family¡¯s estate."

 Chapter 121 Transition

    <h4>Chapter 121: Chapter 121 Transition</h4>


    "Oh..." Abigail Perry withdrew her words sheepishly, perhaps feeling guilty towards her daughter, she now catered to her quite a bit, "Yes, yes, it doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s a girl or a boy, as long as it¡¯s Emily¡¯s child, Mom will like it."


    Emily Ginger nced at her for a moment, then fell silent again. Her gazended on the tiny clothes disyed on her phone screen, imagining her child wearing these clothes in the future. Her previously empty eyes now had a trace of brightness.


    *


    After Daisy Ginger and Edward Stephens reconciled, they moved out of the house.


    Daisy didn¡¯t want to live with her mother-inw after getting married, so she suggested that the two of them live together in her vi in the city center.


    When this proposal came up, Edward hadn¡¯t even expressed his opinion yet before Lady Stephens strongly opposed it.


    She said, "If Daisy doesn¡¯t want to live at our house, Edward and I will move to your house instead."


    "..."


    "I don¡¯t care, I want to live with Daisy anyway. If Daisy wants to live in the city center, then I¡¯ll move there too."


    Edward: "..."


    Daisy: "..."


    Edward¡¯s mother...


    Even more challenging than Edward.


    After much discussion and persuasion, Lady Stephens finally agreed to let Daisy and Edward enjoy their couple¡¯s world, but insisted they return to the Stephens family home to apany her two days a week.


    For Edward, he didn¡¯t mind where he lived. Given that he didn¡¯t have anything important in Banyan City, moving just meant changing which bed to sleep in.


    Daisy, on the other hand, was excited for quite a while upon hearing Edward agree to move out with her. She hugged him and kissed him for a good while, her eyes and lips full of smiles.


    A weekter, Edward moved into her vi, and the two officially began their cohabitation.


    Being able to see each other as soon as she got home gave Daisy plenty of motivation after work, reducing her need for overtime.


    Living together allowed her to understand Edward¡¯s personality better and better.


    For instance, he¡¯s actually quite a quiet person. The things he does most at home are reading original foreignnguage books or watching various international news. She flipped through his bookshelf and marveled at the breadth of his interests. He seemed proficient in manynguages, not just French and English. There were also many texts she had never even seen on the bookshelf.


    He seldom went out and didn¡¯t leave early or returnte. Although she had no idea what he was doing now, he clearly wasn¡¯t short on money.


    After eight years, Edward was as excellent as ever.


    Even more so than she had imagined.


    Regarding this, Daisy felt a hint of pride in her heart.


    When she returned to the Ginger Residence to fetch some documents, she¡¯d sometimes run into Emily and Abigail.


    Emily had changed significantly, gained a lot of weight, and her three-month belly was muchrger than that of an ordinary pregnant woman. She vaguely heard from others that she seemed to be expecting twins. During thest prenatal checkup, another child was detected, truly proving her earlier prediction: have two in three years.


    Many times, it was Abigail holding her hand as they strolled leisurely in the garden, the mother and daughter basking in the sunshine, appearing rather heartwarming, without that annoying chatter from before.


    One was about to be a mother, and the other to be a grandmother, both had toned down a lot. And she moved out of the Ginger Residence as well, the once fierce quarrels now seemed almost like a lifetime ago.


    Yet it had only been two months.


    But regardless, the intersection between her and Emily had grown less and less, the two lines that once crossed each other, were now finally headed in their own directions, gradually parallel.


    *


    A transition. Starting trouble tomorrow. Hee hee, please vote for rmendations~

 Chapter 122: She loved him almost desperately.

    <h4>Chapter 122: Chapter 122: She loved him almost desperately.</h4>


    Mid-November, the weather had already turned chilly. Daisy Ginger put on a trench coat, clocked out, and walked out of the office.


    Oliver Rubio had just emerged from the secretarial room and couldn¡¯t help but to sigh as he saw Daisy¡¯s departing figure: they say that marriage is the grave of love, but for Daisy, marrying Edward Stephens had changed her entire demeanor. She was like a well-nurtured, vibrant rose, so bright that people dared not look directly at her.


    She had always been extremely beautiful, and now beauty couldn¡¯t even begin to describe her. It was as if she had absorbed the essence of countless young men and women, and even a single nce could captivate the soul.


    Even Oliver Rubio, a traditional man focused on family, at times dared not look directly at Daisy¡¯s face, always feeling that her bright, watery eyes were breathtaking at a nce.


    This radiant state of hers had persisted for over two months. Whenever she appeared, who knew how many unmarried young men within the Ginger Group would have their hearts stirred. Thepany¡¯s marriage rate was about to hit a new low.


    While Oliver was worried about the marriage rate of hispany¡¯s employees, Daisy had already driven her silver BMW out of the underground parking lot. She stopped by a flower shop to buy a bouquet of sunflowers and then sent a WeChat message to Edward: "Edward, I¡¯ve left work."


    There was no response, but the message showed as read, indicating that Edward was aware.


    Daisy curled her lips and sent another message: "Edward, I want to eat out."


    Edward finally replied: "I don¡¯t feel like going out today. Let¡¯s eat at home, be good."


    Thest word made the curve of Daisy¡¯s lips more pronounced.


    They had been living together for two months now, but they hadn¡¯t been intimate.


    She knew that although Edward had epted her affection and fulfilled his duties as a husband, he didn¡¯t want to be with her in that way.


    She mostly understood the reasons why.


    She could wait.


    To her, even the slightest closeness allowed by Edward felt like fireworks igniting in her heart.


    She was almost hopelessly in love with him.


    *


    Returning home, Daisy entered with the sunflowers in hand. Edward wasing down from upstairs, dressed in a white shirt and ck pants, tall and handsome, with features as if painted.


    She handed the sunflowers to a servant, ran over, and wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her face in his chest and taking a deep breath.


    Edward was a bit puzzled: "What are you doing?"


    "Inhaling you."


    Edward: "...???"


    Daisy lifted her head, her bright eyes glistening. She held his neck and cooed, "Edward, I¡¯m hungry."


    Edward replied ndly: "Dinner will be ready in half an hour. Go find something to eat in the kitchen."


    Daisy pouted, "Then forget it, I want to eat with you."


    Edward disentangled Daisy from his side and walked towards the hall. Daisy followed closely behind: "Edward, let me tell you..."


    She chattered around him, sharing interesting things that happened at thepany today. Edward held a book in his hand, asionally acknowledging her until Daisy grew tired, sipped some water, and quietly leaned against him to read together.


    Most of the books Edward read were beyond Daisy¡¯sprehension, and he didn¡¯t share what he read. But to her, sitting together and enjoying these moments of peace was her biggest motivation to work hard all day.


    *


    After dinner, the sky had already darkened.


    Daisy walked to the door, stretchedzily, feeling the damp breeze of the night air.


    She looked up, seeing the sunset already swallowed by dark clouds, a sky so dark it seemed as if it would rain any second.


    She had nned to take Edward out for a walk, but that idea was now washed away.


    Daisy sighed gently at the door, turning her head to see Edward, this homebody, alreadyzily stepping upstairs in his slippers.


    This guy, after eating, just goes upstairs to rest. How did he maintain those eight-pack abs?


    Perhaps he exercised while she was at work?


    Daisy pouted and watched some news downstairs. When the news ended, she also went upstairs to the study to work.


    She didn¡¯t know how much time passed before there was a knock at the study door, pulling her thoughts away from theputer screen. Rubbing her temples, her voice low and husky, she asked: "What¡¯s up?"


    "Miss Ginger, someone is looking for you at the door." The servant¡¯s voice was cautious and careful.


    Someone looking for her?


    Daisy furrowed her brows, releasing the mouse, and opened the door to ask the servant: "Who is it?"


    "It¡¯s a young pregnant woman." The servant seemed a bit nervous upon seeing her and spoke cautiously, "She wants to see Mr. Stephens."


    Daisy managed the household matters, and the servants had all been hired by her. Regarding all matters big and small, they would inform Daisy first before conveying them to Edward.


    Upon hearing this, Daisy¡¯s expression instantly turned cold. She said nothing, responding to the servant with: "I¡¯ll go and take a look, there¡¯s no need to inform him."


    "Yes." The servant responded and withdrew.


    Daisy, with a stern face, approached the vi entrance alone.


    The sharp rain drizzled from the sky, the autumn rain lingering and chilling to the bone. Daisy walked over, looking at Emily Ginger drenched and stopped by the gatekeepers. Her expression was anything but gentle.


    "What are you doing here?" she asked.


    Emily, seeing her, shrank back for a moment. She had a deeply ingrained fear and inferiority towards this elder sister.


    But survival instinct forced her to rally; she pleaded to Daisy, "Sister, can you let me see Edward? I have something to ask of him..."


    Daisy looked at her and coldly stated just two words: "No way."


    "Sister," Emily implored, "I really have something I need to see him about, I have no other choice, I¡¯m begging you, let me see him."


    Her expression was pitiful, clutching her pregnant belly, looking absolutely woeful.


    Seeing her, Daisy remembered a few months ago when Emily brazenly came to her bedroom, asking her to give Edward up to her. The annoyance in her heart rose another notch.


    She and Edward had finally started to get along¡ªwhy did Emily have toe bother her?


    Already carrying Ian Linton¡¯s child, yet she came to pester Edward again. Couldn¡¯t she just do the math?


    Knowing full well that she liked Edward, yet stillpeting for his affection, wasn¡¯t upying Edward¡¯s heart enough for her? Had it reached the point where she had to ship her and Abigail Perry off overseas so that they wouldn¡¯t appear before her and vex her?!


    Under the pale streemp light of the night, Daisy¡¯s face was like a sculpture of ice and snow, indifferent and relentless. Standing guard at the entrance, she told the gatekeeper: "Don¡¯t let her in. Throw her out."


    That said, she turned to leave.


    A slender, pale hand clung tightly to her clothes. Emily, with a sob in her voice, begged: "Sister, please let me see Edward, he¡¯s all I have left..."


    *


    Seeking rmendation votes~

 Chapter 123: Ashamed of One’s Inferiority

    <h4>Chapter 123: Chapter 123: Ashamed of One¡¯s Inferiority</h4>


    This sentence almost perfectly touched Daisy Ginger¡¯s bottom line.


    She forcefully shook off Emily Ginger¡¯s hand, pushing her back a big step. Watching Emily stagger back, Daisy only realized she was now a pregnant woman, and her heart skipped a beat. She instinctively reached out to help her, but Emily had already stood firm not far away.


    She let out a sigh of relief, slightly pursed her lips. Her bright eyes, like mes, ignited the pitch-ck rainy night.


    Emily stood in the rain, looking panic-stricken, holding her protruding belly with both hands, her face pale without a trace of blood.


    Facing Daisy, she seemed extremely frightened. Her eyes were full of pleading, carefully and tearfully begging her, "Sister..."


    "Don¡¯t call me sister." Daisy stood under the eaves, her exquisite face cold as water. She looked mercilessly at Emily, soaked in the rain, and asked word by word, "How long are you going to disturb Edward and me before you¡¯re satisfied? Haven¡¯t you had enough? Edward is now my husband, can¡¯t you have some decency and stop showing up in front of him?!"


    Daisy was truly fed up with the feeling ofpeting with another woman for a man, and what irritated her more was Emily¡¯s matter-of-fact attitude.


    For her to go to Edward Stephens, exactly who gave her the confidence?


    She didn¡¯t want to delve into Emily¡¯s matter-of-factness, her heart felt stuffy, she frowned, just wanting to drive her away.


    "I... I don¡¯t know who else to turn to..." Emily looked at her anxiously, staggering and reaching out as if to grab Daisy¡¯s hand, which was once again brushed away by Daisy. Helplessly, she retracted her arms, standing in the rain like a little animal driven to a dead end, her face and eyes mixed with rain and tears, pitifully miserable.


    She cried, "I don¡¯t know who else to turn to... Sister, only Edward can help me, he won¡¯t abandon me, sister, I beg you, let me see him just once, I really have something to tell him."


    ...


    ...


    I only have him left.


    He won¡¯t abandon me.


    ...


    ...


    Daisy listened, not knowing why, but she wanted tough.


    She really wanted to ask, Emily Ginger, what makes you say this?


    What makes you think Edward Stephens will surely help you?


    What makes you?!


    Standing by the door, she slowly took a breath, the chill of the rainy night invading her lungs, giving her mind unprecedented rity.


    She said to Emily, "If you have anything to say, you can tell me. I won¡¯t let you see him."


    "I..." Emily looked up at her, her gaze seemed to carry a flicker of hope, but she didn¡¯t know what crossed her mind, and the spark in her dark pupils quickly faded. She looked at her, stepped back, and shook her head sorrowfully, "Daisy, I can¡¯t tell you..."


    Daisy furrowed her brow and said coldly, "What is it that you can only tell Edward Stephens and not me? Emily Ginger, to find him, you¡¯ve be a constant liar, scheming at every turn!"


    "..." The girl trembled with pale lips, looking at the dazzling Daisy in front of her. Her dark eyes held fear, disgust, envy, and most prominently, inferiority.


    She couldn¡¯t bring herself to speak, her self-esteem wouldn¡¯t allow her to disclose her plight to Daisy. How perfect Daisy was, at a height she could never reach no matter what. Standing before her, she felt a profound sense of shame and inferiority.

 Chapter 124: Lingering Feelings

    <h4>Chapter 124: Chapter 124: Lingering Feelings</h4>


    In the distance, a ck car drove towards her, and Emily Ginger was caught in the headlights. For a moment, she felt like a frog on a dissection table, shivering uncontrobly.


    The car passed by and drove away into the distance; it turned out to be a stranger¡¯s vehicle.


    She lifted her head and looked desperately at the brightly lit vi ahead of her, knowing Edward Stephens was there on the third floor, where the lights were on. He could save her from this urgent crisis; he surely wouldn¡¯t abandon her...


    But she no longer had time to beg Daisy Ginger to let her in to find him...


    Emily Ginger¡¯s gaze slowly returned to where she had seen Daisy¡¯s icy demeanor. Her pale lips moved slightly, but in the end, she said nothing, slowly turning around, her slender figure gradually disappearing into the dark rainy mist.


    Daisy Ginger crossed her arms and stood under the eaves, watching her sister¡¯s retreating back for a moment, her brow furrowed.


    What was she up to?


    And Ian Linton? Why let her out in the rain?


    Daisy instinctively felt something was amiss, yet her ingrained dislike made it impossible to be gentler to her sister. Turning around, she was about to call a driver to take Emily back, but stopped abruptly when she saw him standing in the living room.


    The man, with a solemn face, grabbed an umbre from the doorway and steadily walked outside.


    Daisy lowered her gaze, watching Edward Stephens¡¯ long legs stride past her and out the door.


    She reached out and grabbed the man¡¯s arm.


    "Edward Stephens, you¡¯re not allowed to go." Daisy¡¯s voice, cold as the rainy night, rang out, "You¡¯re my husband now, how can you care about another woman?"


    The man tilted his head, his gaze meeting hers. Daisy¡¯s face looked pale in the light, her delicate features tense, and her lips tightly pursed. Her eyes were filled with suppressed anger and restraint.


    "Daisy, she¡¯s your sister." He looked at her, "You can¡¯t always leave her to fend for herself."


    Daisy stared back at him, her voice hoarse as if squeezed from her throat, she asked word by word: "Is it because she¡¯s my sister, or because you have unresolved feelings for her?"


    "She wouldn¡¯t seek me without reason," Edward lowered his eyes, raised his hand, and pried Daisy¡¯s fingers from his arm, "I can¡¯t ignore her."


    A raindrop drifted into Daisy¡¯s eye, blurring her vision momentarily. Her voice, icy and nearly gritted, said, "Does it mean every time she seeks you, you must meet her?"


    Edward looked at her, his brow furrowing, now showing a hint of impatience.


    That impatience tore the warmth of the past few months into shreds, revealing the true nature of their rtionship¡ª


    Edward¡¯s voice, calm, inquired: "Daisy, have you forgotten how this marriage came about?"


    Daisy¡¯s whole body trembled, she shook uncontrobly, looking at him in disbelief.


    How?


    "Was it snatched from Emily Ginger?" Sheughed hoarsely, "What do you think?"


    "Do you still me me for breaking you and Emily apart?" Herugh grew colder and more dazzling, her icy eyes glinting, "Edward, if you loved her so much, why didn¡¯t you die with her back then?"

 Chapter 125: Love Me, I’m Worth It

    <h4>Chapter 125: Chapter 125: Love Me, I¡¯m Worth It</h4>


    "..." Edward Stephens looked up, but did not look at her again, nor did he say another word. His face darkened slightly, and he stepped into the curtain of rain.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s fingers curled slightly, having lost the courage to hold onto him¡ªshe felt she couldn¡¯t bear the pain of her fingers being pried open one by one a second time.


    The tall silhouette gradually disappeared in the direction Emily Ginger had left.


    Daisy stood where she was, staring intensely, trembling as if she were cold, her nails about to dig into her palms, drawing blood.


    She lost to Emily Ginger.


    Completely lost.


    She took a heart, extracted it, reverently, held it out, offered it to him, almost begging, showing Edward Stephens¡ªshe loved him so much, more than anyone else, more than Emily Ginger.


    So, love me, I¡¯m worth it.


    He saw it and then, just so lightly, crushed her love beneath his foot, discarding it.


    Only she...


    Only she alone found fulfillment in living alongside him day by day. All this time, it turned out to be just her one-person show.


    He was so perfunctory in amodating her, yet she thought he was slowly beginning to fall in love with her.


    Self-deceived romance, what a pathetic joke.


    ...


    ...


    Under the dripping eaves, Daisy¡¯s whole body shook slightly, and then, shivering as though she were cold, she slowly squatted down, trembling, burying her face in her knees, holding herself tightly.


    Her chest felt frozen; she didn¡¯t know how she could warm her heart.


    She didn¡¯t know what to do...


    What should she do, to make Edward Stephens fall in love with her?


    She had a thousand, ten thousand ways to torment those who bullied her, mocked her, and despised her, to make them regret. But Edward Stephens, she couldn¡¯t bear to let him feel sad because of her.


    She wanted to present him with all the most wonderful things in the world, hoping he would be the happiest person in the world.


    Just like he did when he once loved her.


    But how, how could she continue to love with such unwavering determination, never flinching, relentlessly forward?


    How could she not fear the pain...


    Daisy dazedly curled up on the ground, thinking to herself, the fingers Edward Stephens pried open hurt so much, her head hurt so much, her heart hurt so much, it was agonizing.


    Why did it have to hurt so much, she hated it to death.


    *


    The rain seemed to be falling harder.


    Emily Ginger stumbled along the road.


    If a light shone upon her, it would reveal her expression, almost frenzied, as if she were hiding from something.


    She clutched her protruding belly, drenched by the rain, in the pitch-ck night, alone, rushing around in a panic, dodging those headlights like a dying animal.


    She thought every car was Ian Linton¡¯s.


    He couldn¡¯t find her.


    Couldn¡¯t take her back.


    But she didn¡¯t know where to hide; her mother wouldn¡¯t help her, would only tell her to endure; she knew Edward Stephens would save her, but Daisy would not allow her to get close.


    She truly had nowhere else to go!


    Emily Ginger broke down, crying, shedding tears while drenched in rain, wandering blindly and aimlessly on the road like a headless fly.


    Her spirit had been pushed to its limit, and now that string hadpletely snapped.


    She crawled up the overpass, watching the rolling river below, crying while desperately thinking, she truly didn¡¯t want to die.


    But she truly had no way to live anymore.

 Chapter 126: She’s about to die, do you want to come and see her one last time?

    <h4>Chapter 126: Chapter 126: She¡¯s about to die, do you want toe and see her onest time?</h4>


    No one can save her...


    She lowered her head, gently touching her belly, "Baby, I¡¯m sorry... let¡¯s go together, shall we..."


    She couldn¡¯t bring them into the world, nor let them live in such a dysfunctional family. Rather than living a pitiful life, it was better to die with her.


    Emily Ginger thought this, and gradually felt a little more at ease.


    Living is so painful that death seems the greatest release.


    After all, no one would save her...


    No one could save her anymore...


    She lowered her head, looking at the turbulent river below, smiled with relief, and leaned forward, falling.


    *


    "Boom¡ª¡ª"


    Daisy Ginger was jolted awake by the crash of thunder.


    She had taken sleeping pills, but was still groggy under their influence and had only been asleep for less than an hour when she woke up.


    The rain was getting heavier.


    The window blew open at some unknown time, letting raindrops drift in, soaking the floor.


    She held her head, on the verge of a splitting headache, got out of bed and went to shut the window.


    "Buzz buzz buzz¡ª¡ª"


    The phone by her pillow vibrated violently, startling Daisy, almost causing her to slip on the wet floor.


    Who was calling her in the middle of the night?


    She walked over irritably, found her phone, and saw Edward Stephens¡¯ name on the screen.


    He dared to call her?


    She gritted her teeth, almostughing in anger, her fingers tempted to hang up, but she couldn¡¯t resist and answered.


    As long as he apologized, Daisy thought, as long as he apologized, she would¡ª


    "Daisy, Emily is at the First People¡¯s Hospital. She¡¯s dying. Do you want to see her onest time?"


    *


    A torrential rain.


    Daisy hastily called for a driver, and as she got into the car, she heard the sound of raindrops falling on the umbre, and these four words appeared in her mind.


    This rain seemed to have washed her rtionship with Edward Stephens to a precarious point.


    Just that afternoon, she had embraced him deeply, his scent enveloping her nose so intimately, as if she was truly loved by him.


    How dreamlike it all seemed.


    She gazed at the dark car window, seeing her reflection with a mocking smile on her lips.


    "Miss Ginger, we¡¯ve arrived at the hospital."


    The car slowly stopped, and the driver¡¯s voice brought her back to reality. Daisy murmured a response, opened the car door, and stepping out with her umbre, wearing high heels.


    In the corridor of the emergency room, many people were already there, including Abigail Perry, Ian Linton, Ian¡¯s parents, and Edward Stephens.


    She could hear Abigail Perry¡¯s crying from afar, her voice as loud as ever. Daisy walked over slowly with her dripping umbre and saw Edward turning his head to look at her.


    In her rush, Daisy hadn¡¯t had time to change out of her silk nightgown, merely wrapping herself in a ck long coat, while standing in her high heels, her long hair loose, still looking enchanting and graceful, her face delicate.


    "What happened?"


    She stepped forward and asked Edward.


    He looked at her, telling her, "She jumped off the bridge tomit suicide, was spotted by a passerby, and was just brought to the hospital by a kind stranger."


    "..." Daisy silently averted her gaze, walked to the wall, folded her arms, and leaned against it.


    After that, the two did notmunicate further.


    The sound of Abigail Perry¡¯s heart-wrenching cries echoed in her ears. Daisy closed her eyes, listening for a while, only feeling her nerves, dulled by sleeping pills, being agitated one by one by the noise; she inhaled slightly, feeling somewhat weary, and turned to seek some peace outside.

 Chapter 127 The Last Straw

    <h4>Chapter 127: Chapter 127 The Last Straw</h4>


    She had just taken a step when the door of the operating room suddenly opened, and a doctor wearing a mask came out.


    "Doctor." Abigail Perry and the others immediately crowded around, anxiously asking, "How is Emily? Will she be alright?"


    Daisy Ginger paused her steps slightly, turned her head, and looked towards the door of the operating room.


    The doctor took off his mask, revealing a face with slightly furrowed brows, "The adult is currently not out of danger. The two children in her belly cannot be saved. Who among you is the patient¡¯s rtive? We need you to sign a liability waiver."


    "I am Emily¡¯s mother," Abigail hurriedly said, "I don¡¯t care about those two children, I just want Emily toe back. I¡¯ll sign, I¡¯ll sign right now!"


    She looked panicked, at aplete loss. A nurse came over, handed her a pen, and she signed her name with trembling hands without even looking.


    After signing, she rushed to the doctor, crying out, "Doctor, you must save my daughter. She¡¯s only twenty-four, she¡¯s so young, she can¡¯t die... I¡¯m kneeling to you, you must save her..."


    As she spoke, her legs dropped straight to the floor, but the people around her quickly supported her.


    ...


    Daisy Ginger stood not far away, slowly withdrawing her gaze, and walked expressionlessly towards the corridor outside.


    In the face of life and death, all love and hatred seem so pale and powerless.


    No matter how abhorrent Abigail Perry was in the past, she didn¡¯t want her to lose her only daughter.


    She stood at the vent for a while, letting the cold wind calm her heated mind down, then wearily found a long bench to sit on, leaned against the wall, and closed her eyes.


    Her chest felt stuffy.


    She felt a bit ufortable.


    No matter how much she tries to shirk, she cannot escape the fact that she almost caused Emily Ginger¡¯s death.


    She refused Emily Ginger¡¯s plea, which was the final straw that broke her. If she had softened her heart a bit back then, perhaps...


    She opened her eyes, exhaled a breath, feeling somewhat breathless.


    *


    At twelve-thirty in the morning, the doctors inducedbor to remove the twins in Emily Ginger¡¯s belly.


    Emily Ginger was physically weak and had no strong will to survive, making the surgery extremely difficult.


    Abigail Perry¡¯s cries were earth-shattering, clearly audible from afar. Daisy Ginger sat alone in the corner, smoked a pack of cigarettes, and when dawn broke slightly, the surgery was over.


    Emily Ginger lost her children, but her life was saved; she was transferred to the intensive care unit for observation.


    Daisy Ginger patted the ash off her trench coat, stood from the bench with cold limbs, and walked silently towards the elevator with the smell of smoke all over her.


    Behind her, a pair of light brown eyes lingered on her graceful figure, not retracting for a long time.


    *


    Daisy Ginger returned to the vi in the city center and instructed the servants to pack Edward Stephens¡¯ belongings and send them back to the Stephens family.


    The servants were startled when they heard her words, but seeing the hostess¡¯s chilly demeanor and the cold and indifferent aura different from usual, they dared not ask questions and went upstairs to pack Edward Stephens¡¯ things as she instructed.


    Daisy Ginger sat on the sofa, watching the servants pack up Edward Stephens¡¯ belongings and ce them in the living room.


    A few sets of clothes, a few original foreign books, all packed up yet not enough to fill a suitcase.


    She sat on the sofa, looking at these few items, somewhat in a daze as if awakening from a dream.


    *

 Chapter 128: She Went Crazy

    <h4>Chapter 128: Chapter 128: She Went Crazy</h4>


    So it turns out, during this period, he only brought so few things over, it didn¡¯t even seem like he was living with her, more like he was on a business trip.


    Apparently, he¡¯s been treating her ce like a hotel.


    She looked at it and felt a bit likeughing.


    Love can blind the eyes, put a filter over everything, and thinking back now, Edward Stephens¡¯ treatment of her was actually no different from the beginning.


    It was just that under her persistent pestering, he stopped speaking coldly.


    Never gave her a kiss, never held her hand proactively, and never was ovee with emotion towards her.


    How could one possibly hide love for someone?


    Only she contented herself with his presence, rejoicing, thinking that his heart was gradually drawing near.


    Clearly, he always hid his heart well, never giving an inch.


    Daisy Ginger leaned back on the sofa, looked up at the ceiling, and let out a low, embarrassedugh.


    If not for Emily Ginger¡¯s incident, she might never have realized how ridiculous this time had been.


    ...


    "Miss Ginger, Mr. Stephens¡¯ things are all here now."


    The steward looked at her expression, cautiously speaking to her.


    Daisy Ginger nodded, "Send them back to the Stephens family."


    The maid hesitated for a moment and didn¡¯t dare to ask anything further, picking up the suitcase and quickly left.


    Daisy Ginger sat in ce, dazed for a while, and only afterward realized she was hungry, so she asked someone to make her breakfast.


    When she entered the dining room, the sunflowers she bought from the florist yesterday were blooming brilliantly on the dining table.


    She stood there for a while, then stepped forward, picked up the flowers, and threw them in the trash can.


    She said, "Let¡¯s switch to roses next time."


    She really was so foolish.


    *


    Three days after thea, Emily Ginger finally woke up.


    However, the worse situation had just begun.


    She had lost her mind.


    Overwhelmed with stress, mentally unstable, lost her civil capacity, apanied by symptoms of schizophrenia. When she saw Abigail Perry and Ian Linton, she was so frightened she screamed loudly on the hospital bed until the doctor came over and gave her a sedative shot to calm her down.


    The doctor advised Abigail Perry and Ian Linton not to visit her during her recovery period to prevent aggravating her condition.


    Not even recognizing her own mother and fianc¨¦, who knows how she ended up like this.


    When Daisy Ginger heard this news, she sat in the office dazed for quite a while until Oliver Rubio tapped the table and cautiously reminded her of a teleconferenceter, finally bringing her back to reality.


    "Okay, I¡¯ll prepare in advance."


    Daisy Ginger nodded to Oliver Rubio, "You go ahead and get busy."


    Oliver Rubio looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s pale face withplex emotions, noticing that she hadn¡¯t been welltely. Her dazed momentssted longer, herplexion worsened, as if a string had been tightened to the extreme, ready to snap at any moment.


    He wanted to suggest Daisy Ginger take a break for a few days, but as an assistant, he had no authority over the big boss¡¯s schedule. If Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t want to rest, what could an employee say?


    Oliver Rubio sighed lightly in his heart, turned around, and started to leave.


    "Oliver Rubio."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s voice suddenly came over.


    "Director Ginger." Oliver Rubio stopped and turned to look at her.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze was still on the screen, without looking at him, her voice was calm: "Help me contact awyer who is skilled in handling property division, we¡¯ll need one in the near future."


    Oliver Rubio slightly froze, looking at her incredulously, the shimmering screen reflected on Daisy Ginger¡¯s exquisite and pale face, her expression showed no change at all.

 Chapter 129: Why Did You Leave Me Alone

    <h4>Chapter 129: Chapter 129: Why Did You Leave Me Alone</h4>


    Perhaps sensing that he had been standing at the door for too long, Daisy Ginger lifted her head from the desk, nced at his face with a hint of impatience, "What¡¯s the matter?"


    "N-nothing." Oliver Rubio quickly averted his gaze, "I¡¯ll inquire for you now, Director Ginger."


    Daisy Ginger said indifferently, "No need to rush, attend to your own matters first."


    Oliver Rubio responded with a sound and walked out of Daisy Ginger¡¯s office.


    Daisy Ginger withdrew her gaze and continued working.


    It¡¯s not that she didn¡¯t love anymore, it¡¯s just she felt vaguely that her marriage with Edward Stephens might notst as long as she¡¯d hoped.


    Dividing the assets in advance, taking precautions, this was the only thing she could do for herself now.


    *


    After work, Daisy Ginger left thepany alone.


    She drove to a stationery store to buy a pile of drawing paper, then headed to Greenhill Hospital.


    These days she had been busy, so it had been a long time since shest visited Alice Lesser. When she carried the drawing paper to Alice¡¯s ward, the caregiver was feeding her dinner. Upon seeing her, the caregiver gently called her, "Miss Ginger."


    "Let me do the feeding." Daisy Ginger smiled at the caregiver, put down the drawing paper, and reached out to take Alice¡¯s bowl.


    "You should go have your meal too." She said to the caregiver, "I want to spend some time alone with my mom."


    The caregiver, a plump middle-aged woman, was wellpensated by Daisy Ginger. She took good care of Alice Lesser, so when she heard Daisy¡¯s words, she forced a smile and nodded enthusiastically before leaving.


    Once the door was closed, the ward fell into silence.


    Alice¡¯s dinner was a bit of congee and some side dishes. She ate slowly, sometimes forgetting to swallow as she chewed, and congee was easier for her to ingest.


    Daisy carefully fed her a spoonful of congee and apologized softly as she looked into the woman¡¯s unfamiliar eyes, "Mom, I¡¯m sorry for not visiting you for so long."


    "A lot has happenedtely, I¡¯ve been so busy..."


    "I got married." Daisy paused, "I was nning to bring him over to see you in the next few days. Now that I think about it, it¡¯s fortunate I didn¡¯t."


    Saying this, she lowered her head somewhat helplessly and gave a bitter smile.


    She was so mesmerized by Edward Stephens that she could interpret even his smallest gestures as endless tenderness and affection.


    But everyone else knew clearly that Edward Stephens did not love her.


    Bringing a man who didn¡¯t love her to see Alice would be so embarrassing.


    It took Daisy over half an hour to feed Alice a small bowl of congee.


    After feeding, she held Alice¡¯s hand and took her to the easel, letting her hold the paintbrush to draw.


    She stood behind her, carefullybing her graying long hair, tying it into a braid, and pinning it on her head.


    Then she stood by her side, helping her mix paints, wash brushes, until Alice grew tired andy down to rest.


    "I¡¯lle see you next month." Daisy sat by the bed, looking at the woman whose eyes were closed, her serene sleeping face, her words did not stir any emotional response from Alice.


    Her mother no longer recognized her.


    She had been living in her own world for eight years.


    "You¡¯ve gotten a bit thinner, eat more, go out and get some sunshine, don¡¯t stay in the room painting all day. What you¡¯re painting now doesn¡¯t look good anymore..."


    Daisy pressed her lips together, looking at Alice who had already closed her eyes, a wave of grievance suddenly welled up inside her.


    "Why did you leave me all alone." She asked in a hoarse whisper, "Wasn¡¯t I the reason for your existence..."

 Chapter 130: You Definitely Don’t Love Me Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 130: Chapter 130: You Definitely Don¡¯t Love Me Anymore</h4>


    Her breathing was a little unsteady, tears were about to fall, and she turned her head to look out the window.


    Sometimes, there was resentment in her heart.


    If Alice Lesser were here, meeting Edward Stephens, she might not be so clueless as she is now.


    The people who could tell her what to do were no longer around.


    Alone, she explored, persisted, and became scarred. Perhaps there was a better solution between her and Edward Stephens, but by herself, she really couldn¡¯t find the direction.


    All she knew was to stake everything and wait, to hold on to him with all her strength, but she didn¡¯t know how to let go.


    And these were things that her mother should have gently guided her through.


    "You surely don¡¯t love me anymore," Daisy Ginger said in a muffled voice, "No mother would leave her daughter alone for eight years without caring. Never."


    *


    "Miss Ginger."


    The chubby caregiver approached cautiously with a full face of smiles and called out to her.


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t like her fawning smile, but since she worked diligently, she didn¡¯t mind. As long as she took good care of Alice Lesser, everything else was trivial.


    "How many days has it been since my mother washed her hair?" Daisy Ginger lightly furrowed her brow, "Her hair feels a bit coarse, remember to give it some care."


    "It was just washed yesterday," the caregiver hurriedly said, "I worked really hard on it, you know, Miss Lesser doesn¡¯t like washing her hair or bathing..."


    After Alice Lesser fell ill, her once obsessive cleanliness changed drastically, and she began to dislike water.


    Daisy Ginger knew she couldn¡¯t me the caregiver for this, so she nodded, "Take good care of her, and I¡¯ll increase your pay next month."


    The caregiver¡¯s small eyes immediately lit up, and she smiled as brightly as a sunflower, "I will, I treat her like my own daughter!"


    "..." Daisy Ginger was silent for a moment, nced at her bright smiling face, pinched her tired brow, and continued, "She¡¯s been losing a bit of weight recently, don¡¯t just give her porridge all the time. Have someone make her some nourishing soup; she¡¯s too thin now."


    "Yes, yes, I¡¯ll have someone make old hen soup tomorrow," the caregiver nodded eagerly.


    Daisy Ginger acknowledged with a "Hmm," checked the time, and turned to leave.


    *


    She returned to the vi, and it was almost eleven o¡¯clock.


    Daisy Ginger had a bit of noodles cooked by the housekeeper, then tiredly went upstairs to rest.


    These days, she had been so busy with work that she hardly had time to think about her situation with Edward Stephens¡ªperhaps subconsciously she didn¡¯t want to think about it¡ªthe result being that she was physically exhausted, falling asleep as soon as she hit the bed.


    Having no time to eat, she clearly felt that she was a bit physically weak in the past few days; if this continued, she would get sick again.


    Getting sick because of Edward Stephens would really be a lose-lose situation, not worth it.


    Daisy Ginger struggled, picked up her phone, sent a text to Oliver Rubio, telling him she would take a day off tomorrow, then closed her eyes and fell asleep the next second.


    Morning.


    On the ck marble dining table, there were purple roses.


    They swayed in the wind, emitting a faint, elegant fragrance.


    Daisy Ginger leaned back in her dining chair, crossed her legs, held a coffee cup, drank coffee, and admired the bouquet of roses, feeling very satisfied.


    Only a fool like Edward Stephens would like silly blooming flowers like sunflowers.


    ...


    ...


    Realizing she was thinking about Edward Stephens again, Daisy Ginger¡¯s movement of drinking coffee paused slightly, then she pursed her lips in some annoyance and drank the unsweetened coffee in one gulp as if out of resentment.

 Chapter 131: Mr. Stephens, what a coincidence

    <h4>Chapter 131: Chapter 131: Mr. Stephens, what a coincidence</h4>


    "Miss Ginger, the car is ready."


    After breakfast, the servant softly informed her.


    Daisy Ginger nodded, put on a pair of sunsses, and got up to go outside.


    She drove her BMW to the First People¡¯s Hospital of the city.


    Emily Ginger had been transferred from the ICU to the psychiatric department, where the patients all had mental issues.


    These past few days, Daisy had been constantly pondering¡ªon that rainy night, what exactly did Emily want to say to Edward Stephens?


    She had a perfect family, a loving mother, a fianc¨¦, and two unborn twins. What was she afraid of? Afraid enough toe to her to find Edward Stephens, afraid enough tomit suicide, afraid enough to lose her mind?


    Yet, unfortunately, that was thest time she clearly asked her for help.


    Her secret, apanied by her mental breakdown, would never have the chance to be spoken.


    Daisy parked the car at the hospital entrance, lit a cigarette while sitting inside, and lookedplexly at the psychiatric ward not far away.


    Honestly, she had some regrets.


    If she hadn¡¯t been so firm in turning Emily down that day, perhaps things wouldn¡¯t have reached this irreversible point.


    However, if she were to say it for real, going back to that day, without knowing, she would refuse her again.


    Daisy¡¯s gaze deepened slightly, and she slowly exhaled a breath of smoke, extinguished the cigarette butt in the ashtray, and opened the car door to get out.


    The ward was on the top floor. Daisy pressed the elevator button and went straight up to Emily¡¯s ward.


    The door to the ward was tightly closed. Daisy looked at the white door in front of her, hesitated for a moment, and gently pushed it open.


    Seeing the man standing at the door, Daisy was slightly taken aback for a moment.


    The man seemed about to go out, his arm just lifted in a gesture of opening the door; upon seeing her, perhaps due to surprise, his entire movement paused for a second.


    Four eyes met, Daisy looked at his face, not knowing why, clearly only less than a week had passed, yet there was a feeling of having lived through eons.


    She raised her hand, tucking the fine strands of long hair by her cheek behind her ear, straightened up in front of Edward, and showed him a calm and gentle smile: "Mr. Stephens." She cordially called him, "What a coincidence. Are you here to see Emily too?"


    Edward looked at her, his brows gently furrowing.


    "Director Ginger." Ian Linton¡¯s voice came from behind, Daisy turned her head and saw Ian hurriedly approaching with a thermos.


    This young man, at this moment, was somewhat flustered by the sudden blow from his fianc¨¦e, his usually well-groomed short hair seemed to have gone several days without proper care, standing up messily; the white shirt on him was crumpled, losing the usual neatness.


    Seeing her, he seemed a bit pleased, walked over, and exined to her: "Mr. Stephens has been helping me take care of Emily these days. You know, now when Emily sees me and my aunt..." He paused, showing an awkward expression, and didn¡¯t continue.


    Does she stop being crazy when she sees Edward?


    Daisy found it a bit amusing, yet also a feeling of ¡¯as expected¡¯¡ªwhen she saw Edwarding out of Emily¡¯s ward, she realized that to Emily, Edward was different.


    Even in madness, it was so.


    For the two of them to be so in tune, it was no wonder that Ian Linton, as Emily¡¯s fianc¨¦, looked so awkward and helpless.

 Chapter 132: A Dream of Yellow Millet

    <h4>Chapter 132: Chapter 132: A Dream of Yellow Millet</h4>


    At this moment, Daisy Ginger felt a sense of destion, akin to Ian Linton, "fellow sufferers driven apart in the vast world."


    Edward Stephens doesn¡¯t love her, just as Emily Ginger doesn¡¯t love him.


    ¡ª¡ªA bit humiliating, and a bit helpless.


    Daisy Ginger lifted her head and smiled faintly at Ian Linton, "I¡¯m on leave today, came to check on Emily. How is she now?"


    "Mr. Stephens has been taking care of her these days..." At this point, a trace of embarrassment appeared on Ian Linton¡¯s refined and handsome face. Even though his character is gentle and non-aggressive, it¡¯s hard to speak of these things when his fianc¨¦e won¡¯t let him approach, but allows another man to care for her, "Her mental state has stabilized a lot. Nurses and doctors can also go in for a short while, but she still needs sedative injections."


    "But you¡¯re still not allowed inside?"


    "...Yes." Ian Linton sounded a bit at a loss, "She doesn¡¯t allow me and my mother to get close, I can only bring food from home and let Mr. Stephens take it in."


    "Have they found out the reason?"


    Ian Linton looked at her and shook his head helplessly, "I don¡¯t know... that night she suddenly ran out, I was still at the office, if I¡¯d returned home earlier that day." He took a deep breath at this point, and a regretful expression appeared on his face, his tone somewhat pained, "Doctors also couldn¡¯t find any conditions, just said that pregnancy hormones might have caused neurodegeneration, but the specifics, they haven¡¯t figured out yet."


    Listening to this, Daisy Ginger was slightly tongue-tied¡ªording to Ian Linton, when Emily showed up at her doorstep all drenched that day, she was already out of her mind?


    She recalled Emily¡¯s desperate, helpless gaze and breakdown expression, again feeling it didn¡¯t seem like it...


    Yet her illogical sequence of words at the time did have a touch of madness.


    Thinking it over and over, Daisy Ginger still couldn¡¯t figure it out, so she simply stopped trying¡ªthe doctors haven¡¯t figured it out, how could she, an outsider, make sense of it.


    Ian Linton walked over and handed him the thermos bottle, saying softly, "Mr. Stephens, I¡¯m bothering you."


    Edward Stephens looked at him and didn¡¯t say anything more, just reached out to take it.


    His expression remainedposed, seemingly indifferent to theplex rtionships between the two men and two women on site and inside. Ian Linton, on the other hand, already felt so awkward that he had nothing to say, and after handing off the thermos bottle, he moved to the side, lit a cigarette, and turned his back on them, starting to smoke sullenly.


    Edward Stephens turned and entered the ward.


    Daisy Ginger smelled the faint smoke scent lingering in the hallway and walked over, sympathetically saying, "Ian, maybe you should go back first."


    Ian Linton turned his head slightly to look at her. He didn¡¯t know how many days he¡¯d gone without sleep, his eyes bloodshot, the calm he maintained before Edward Stephens seeming to crack slightly now, he shook his head at Daisy Ginger and sighed lightly, "Director Ginger, do I look awful right now?"


    Daisy Ginger raised her hand and patted his shoulder.


    "Emily doesn¡¯t love me." Ian Linton took a drag on his cigarette, his tone somewhat bitter and resigned, "Perhaps, everything good I did for her was wrong."


    ...


    Perhaps everything good I did for her was wrong.


    ...


    Daisy Ginger was slightly stunned, her heart momentarily heavy, as Ian Linton¡¯s words seemed to also rify her rtionship with Edward Stephens.


    "I thought if I treated her well, she would fall in love with me." Ian Linton¡¯s voice drifted softly over, "She eventually agreed to marry me. Looking back now, it feels like those days of happiness were just a fleeting dream."


    ******


    Hahaha, have to say, Ian Linton is really amazing...


    Request rmendation vote~

 Chapter 133: She Doesn’t Recognize Anyone Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 133: Chapter 133: She Doesn¡¯t Recognize Anyone Anymore</h4>


    A fleeting dream...


    So what is it now?


    A dream just awakened?


    Daisy Ginger was silent for a long time before she nodded slightly.


    She said softly, "You¡¯re right."


    "...But," she walked over and leaned by the window, looking at the blue sky and white clouds outside, lost in thought, "if emotions were like a faucet, turning on and off at will, there wouldn¡¯t be so many lovesick men and women in this world."


    Ian Linton fell silent, and the hallway was quiet for a while. Daisy Ginger took a deep breath, gathered her emotions, and turned her head to smile at Ian Linton, "I¡¯ll go see Emily."


    Ian Linton looked at her steadily, his gaze somewhat profound. He nodded, "I wonder if Emily will be afraid of you. If she has a stress reaction, remember to withdraw early."


    Daisy Ginger acknowledged, turned around, and walked towards Emily Ginger¡¯s ward.


    Behind her, Ian Linton stood in ce watching her for a long time until Daisy Ginger¡¯s figure disappeared around the corner, then slowly withdrew his gaze, took a drag on his cigarette with a somber expression.


    *


    Daisy Ginger stood at the door of the ward, feeling slightly nervous.


    Thest memory she had was of Emily Ginger, with her belly swollen, standing in front of her in the rain, pleading, or perhaps, like a startled bird, quickly running past her.


    Towards this sister, there were feelings of annoyance and disdain, but she never thought of harming her in any way.


    Yet now, she had suddenly gone mad, and meeting again was under such circumstances.


    Not knowing how to stand before her, she wasn¡¯t mentally prepared.


    Taking a slight breath, Daisy Ginger reached out and pushed the door open.


    A breeze blew through, brushing against her skirt, carrying a faint fragrance of food and the scent of lilies.


    Emily Ginger¡¯s ward wasrge, single-upancy, tastefully decorated. Except for the hospital¡¯s unique disinfectant smell, it looked no different from a typical bedroom.


    Edward Stephens stood by the window, facing away from her, dressed in white and ck pants, his silhouette tall and slender. Upon hearing the door open, he nced over lightly.


    Daisy Ginger ignored him and focused her gaze on Emily Ginger on the bed not far away.


    Having had two children, she seemed to have lost a lot of weight suddenly. Her long hair softly draped around her; she was wearing a white long-sleeved nightgown, with a pale and clean small face, holding chopsticks while eating, and when she saw Daisy entering, she nkly lifted her head to look at her with a hint of confusion in her big eyes.


    Seeing her so neat and tidy, Daisy Ginger felt slightly relieved. She had seen many manic and violent patients in psychiatric hospitals, and Emily Ginger¡¯s state was much better than she had imagined.


    Edward Stephens nced at her, then nced at Emily Ginger. Seeing no reaction from her, he said nothing.


    Daisy Ginger took a step forward. Emily Ginger, who was sitting on the bed watching her with caution, suddenly dropped her chopsticks and jumped off the bed like a rabbit, darting behind Edward Stephens to hide.


    "..." Daisy Ginger was speechless, unable to move forward or backward, standing awkwardly at the door.


    Edward Stephens said, "Close the door."


    Daisy Ginger shot him a look, reached out, and closed the door, cutting off the noise and voices from outside.


    "How is she now?"


    Her gaze fell on Emily Ginger¡¯s bare feet on the floor, dotted with scars and bruises, likely from struggles these past few days, appearing particrly evident against her fair skin.


    "She doesn¡¯t recognize anyone now." Edward Stephens turned his head, his gaze settling on Emily Ginger, who was tightly clutching his sleeve behind him, his eyes slightly gloomy.

 Chapter 134: Loving someone cannot be hidden

    <h4>Chapter 134: Chapter 134: Loving someone cannot be hidden</h4>


    Daisy Ginger heard this and couldn¡¯t help but smile, "It seems she only knows you."


    Edward Stephens slightly furrowed his brows, detecting the sarcasm in Daisy¡¯s words. He seemed toozy to argue with her and remained silent.


    Daisy wasn¡¯t in the mood to quarrel with him here. She raised her head and looked at Emily Ginger standing behind Edward. Emily clung tightly to Edward¡¯s back, her expression somewhat panic-stricken. Her demeanor was nothing like what you¡¯d expect of a woman in her twenties¡ªfear, anxiety, tension, and a bit of... curiosity.


    Daisy stared into her unfamiliar eyes, and aplex mix of emotions surged from her chest, almost overwhelming her.


    She stepped forward and stood in front of Edward. When Emily saw her approaching, she was so nervous she didn¡¯t know what to do. This demeanor ovepped with how she used to react when facing Daisy, causing Daisy to feel slightly dazed.


    "Daisy," Edward said with a steady face, reminding her, "She¡¯s a patient now."


    "What do you think I¡¯m going to do to her?" Daisy didn¡¯t even nce at him but replied mockingly, "Didn¡¯t you always say she¡¯s my sister? Now that something has happened to my sister, is it so strange for me, as her elder sister, toe and have a look?"


    Edward¡¯s face was grim as he stood protectively in front of Emily, as if she were some kind of dangerous threat.


    Daisy felt no emotional fluctuation at how Edward perceived her. She simply watched Emily for a while, making her more and more scared, shrinking behind Edward like a quail, motionless and afraid to move.


    What really happened that night?


    Why did youe to ask for help in the rain, why didn¡¯t you tell me, why did you want to end your life...


    Looking at her pale, thin face, emotions churned in Daisy¡¯s chest, almost drowning her.


    She didn¡¯t hate Emily; towards the two women at home, she was simply indifferent. She knew the one she should really hate was the man who shattered her family into this state. She rarely paid attention to this weak sister.


    Perhaps she might have had a chance to save her, but that night, she never sensed her despair...


    She felt a slight guilt in her heart over this.


    Daisy slowly withdrew her gaze, pressed her lips together, turned around, and walked out silently.


    She took a step and felt someone gently grab her sleeve. Turning back, Daisy saw Emily hiding behind Edward, timidly reaching out to clutch her sleeve.


    "..." She was slightly surprised and a bit confused, ncing at Edward.


    Edward nced at Emily, then at her, furrowing his brow as if finding it hard to believe, and hesitantly exined her confusion: "She wants you to stay for dinner with her."


    Daisy also looked incredulous, staring at Emily¡¯s face. Her dislike for this woman instantly clouded her judgment, and she frowned, displeased: "Why should I stay and eat with her?"


    "..." Edward remained silent.


    When Emily was well, she never dared to ask anything of her. Now, crazy, she seemed to have gotten a bit bolder?


    She even dared to grab her.


    Daisy looked at her nervous face, slightly raised her chin, and said to Emily, "I¡¯ll apany you for ten minutes."


    Seeing that she was a patient, she reluctantly agreed to stay with her for a moment.


    Edward lowered his head and softly said to Emily, "Go ahead."


    Lowering his head, his facial features appeared gentler than usual.


    Seeing his expression, Daisy thought to herself, indeed, loving someone is hard to hide.

 Chapter 135 - 134 Things Remain the Same, but People Change

    <h4>Chapter 135: Chapter 134 Things Remain the Same, but People Change</h4>


    Ian Linton said, I thought if I was good to her, she would fall in love with me.


    Now, looking back, it was all wrong.


    Was her kindness to him also wrong?


    It was all her wishful thinking and self-righteousness.


    When Edward Stephens was with her, he might have been trying to act like a husband too, but there¡¯s a vast difference between going through the motions and love.


    Daisy Ginger raised her eyes, beckoned to Emily Ginger, and Emily came out from behind Edward like a docile little animal, cautiously taking her hand.


    Daisy lowered her head, looking at Emily¡¯s delicate fingers in her palm. For a fleeting moment, she felt a sense of familiarity, as if long ago, she had held Emily¡¯s hand just like this...


    But how could that be possible?


    She loathed her so much that since knowing of her existence, she never allowed her to get close at all.


    Daisy smiled slightly, calmly leading Emily to the bed to eat.


    The food Ian Linton brought was good, mostly meat with a few small dishes. Daisy sat by the bed, watching Emily for a while, as she ate. Her eating manner was almost normal. Seeing Daisy watching her, Emily shrunk like a chick watched by a hawk, bristling, cautiously reaching out to hand her the chopsticks.


    Daisy, looking at her actions, felt like a bandit robbing Emily, the poor little thing she was robbing.


    Why Emily was so scared of her, yet wanted to eat with her, she didn¡¯t understand.


    But then again, logic rarely applied to a mad person, so Daisy slightly raised her chin and said to her, "I¡¯m not eating. You eat."


    Emily carefully retracted her hand, eating while watching Daisy, as if Daisy might rob her at any moment.


    Looking at Emily¡¯s face, Daisy was momentarily stunned, suddenly remembering when she and Emily held hands for the first time in their lives.


    ¡ªIt was eight years ago, after school one day, Gabriel Ginger suddenly brought Abigail Perry and Emily home.


    When she saw Emily¡¯s face, which was somewhat simr to her own, she was taken aback, her mind went nk, and she couldn¡¯t react.


    Her silence was mistaken by Abigail Perry as eptance. Abigail pushed Emily in front of her, saying, "Emily, meet her, she¡¯s your sister, called Daisy Ginger..."


    Back then, Emily was still a country bumpkin, wearing a cheap cotton dress, shorter than Daisy by a head, underdeveloped, with dark skin. Abigail pushed her forward, cautiously looking at Daisy with ingratiating eyes, reaching out with her dirty hand to hold her.


    As soon as Emily¡¯s warm hand touched her, she snapped, lost her mind, pped Emily, yelling and causing a scene, eventually restrained and locked in a bedroom by people Gabriel called.


    At that time, she was so devastated, it felt like the sky had fallen, and Emily, pped by her, stood dazed in the hall, like a confused little animal. Abigail went to appease Gabriel, and no one from the Ginger Residence paid attention to Emily, who stood there, like an out-of-ce doll.


    ...


    Eight years have passed.


    Gabriel is dead, Emily has gone mad, Edward has returned, but everything¡¯s changed.


    Daisy stood up from the bedside, speaking in a clear, indifferent voice to Edward Stephens: "I¡¯m going back."


    Edward said, "If I stay here, she will be a little quieter and won¡¯t need so many tranquilizers."


    Daisy said tly, "You don¡¯t need to exin to me. Stay if you want."


    She didn¡¯t know since when she had grown tired of trying to hold on time and again.

 Chapter 136 - 135: You Really Don’t Feel Guilty At All

    <h4>Chapter 136: Chapter 135: You Really Don¡¯t Feel Guilty At All</h4>


    Edward Stephens saw her say this and didn¡¯t exin further¡ªhe didn¡¯t need to exin anything to her when he did things.


    He withdrew his gaze, no longer looking at her.


    Daisy Ginger walked straight ahead, opened the door, and had just stepped out when Abigail Perry¡¯s voice suddenly came from across: "What are you doing here?!"


    Daisy looked up and saw Abigail standing opposite, looking at her with shock and disbelief.


    Standing in front of her was a young nurse, perhaps just discussing Emily Ginger¡¯s condition with the nurse, and when she came out, both the nurse and Abigail seemed a bit surprised.


    Daisy hadn¡¯t had a chance to exin before Abigail rushed over madly, grabbed her arm, and shrieked, "Haven¡¯t you harmed my daughter enough? What are you doing here now? Do you want Emily to die to be satisfied! Daisy, you vicious woman, get out of my daughter¡¯s room!"


    Hearing her hoarse insults, Daisy¡¯s brow furrowed, and her arm hurt from Abigail¡¯s grip. She leaned against the door frame to steady herself, looking coldly at Abigail, "Let go!"


    These days, Abigail seemed truly out of her mind. Her hair was disheveled, her makeup unattended, and she appeared to have aged nearly a decade. She had forgotten all the etiquette lessons she had been taught over the years, behaving like a mad woman in public.


    "You mustn¡¯te here! Do you hear me? Never get close to Emily again! If it weren¡¯t for you breaking her and Edward up, she wouldn¡¯t be like this; it¡¯s all your fault, you slut, Daisy, you slut!"


    A hint of fury appeared between Daisy¡¯s brows as she was about to reprimand the woman with no filter when, from the hospital room, Emily Ginger suddenly began screaming loudly.


    "Ah¡ª¡ª!!"


    "Ah ah ah ah¡ª¡ª"


    "Ah ah ah ah ah ah¡ª¡ª!"


    The piercing screams made both her and Abigail¡¯s movements pause. Emily, who had been quietly eating on the bed, was suddenly triggered by something and began to go hysterical. Her sweeping gestures knocked the food off the table, and she stepped barefoot over the broken porcin on the ground, as if trying to escape someone. Her face pale, she ran around the room like a headless chicken, finally charging towards the slightly open window, but Edward caught her shoulder in time.


    "Doctor," he looked towards the door, speaking in a deep voice, "Give her a sedative injection."


    Emily, restrained by him, still struggled madly in his grip, trying to jump out of the window.


    It was Daisy¡¯s first time facing Emily¡¯s episode directly. She was a bit stunned, watching the contorted and twisted expression on Emily¡¯s face due to her mental illness. A chill surged in her heart¡ªEmily was truly insane.


    Just moments ago, she was obediently eating, her face normal; Daisy hadn¡¯t had any real sense of it then. But now, seeing her convulse all over, her face grotesque, Daisy finally realized the truth.


    Doctors and nurses rushed in from outside, pinning Emily down and quickly administering arge dose of sedative.


    Soon, Emily¡¯s movements softened, her intense expressions gradually turning vacant and bewildered, as she was carried back to bed.


    After finishing all this, the doctor came out and sternly addressed Abigail, "Mrs. Perry, didn¡¯t we tell you not to approach this room lightly? The patient¡¯s mental state is very unstable. Your repeated appearances cause more harm to her mental health."


    "I... I..." Abigail¡¯s expression was also somewhat lost and bewildered. She looked at Emily, who had fallen asleep on the bed, and her legs gave way as she copsed to sit on the floor, covering her face, "What will happen to my daughter now..."


    The doctor seemed to have seen such devastated family members before, and he calmly raised his head, saying to Edward, who walked over, "Mr. Stephens, you should also treat the wound on your hand, be careful it doesn¡¯t scar."


    Edward replied indifferently, "It¡¯s fine."


    Daisy nced up, noticing the scratches on the pale back of the man¡¯s hand¡ªthe result of Emily¡¯s struggle just moments ago, deep enough to draw blood.


    The doctors left, leaving behind the sound of Abigail¡¯s sobbing echoing down the corridor.


    "My daughter..." she cried out in mourning, "My poor daughter, how did ite to this... What should I do now, my fate is so bitter..."


    "Let¡¯s go out."


    Daisy looked up, seeing Edward¡¯s calm face, her lips faintly closing, "Okay."


    At the corner, Daisy stopped walking. She asked, "What happened to her?"


    Edward nced at her, then calmly withdrew his gaze, "Who knows." He pulled out a cigarette from his pocket, cing it between his lips, "Even the cause of her illness hasn¡¯t been found."


    Daisy slightly furrowed her brows, "Will she be like this from now on?"


    She wasn¡¯t on good terms with Emily, but seeing an acquaintance of eight years turn out like this still left her withplicated feelings.


    "Schizophrenia requires lifelong medication," Edward said tly, "Her condition is not good, with severe paranoia and tendencies towards self-harm and suicide, requiring constant sedative injections. I¡¯ve stayed here these days, and she¡¯s been somewhat calmer, not needing long-term sedation."


    Daisy said, "You don¡¯t need to exin to me."


    "..." Edward paused, his brow knit involuntarily; he looked down at Daisy, saying, "That rainy night, if you had informed me, maybe things wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this."


    Daisy lifted her head, looked at his face, and calmly asked him, "Are you ming me?"


    Edward looked into her eyes, "I just think you can¡¯t always be so selfish."


    Selfish...


    Daisyughed, "You think I¡¯m selfish for not letting Emilye in to see you?"


    "..."


    "I just think, sometimes you really forget that you¡¯re my husband now."


    Edward¡¯s thin lips pressed tightly for a moment, staring at Daisy¡¯s light and calm smile.


    "In that situation, if your ex-girlfriend came over, demanding that I open the door and let you meet, I refused; was I wrong?" she looked at him, "Do you think I should have let her in to let you have your affectionate moments in front of me?"


    "Is that what it takes to not be selfish?" Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Should I even generously let you take a concubine to satisfy you?"


    Edward turned his face away, his lips pressing tightly as he looked out the window, his voice icy, "You really feel no guilt at all."


    If every choice in this world could predict the consequences, Daisy thought as she looked at him, perhaps my first choice would have been not to meet you.


    The happiness you brought me is so insignificantpared to the pain I now endure.

 Chapter 137 - 136: Breaking off the Engagement

    <h4>Chapter 137: Chapter 136: Breaking off the Engagement</h4>


    Daisy Ginger slowly withdrew her gaze, turned her body, and calmly walked towards the direction of the elevator not far away.


    Edward Stephens turned his head, looking at Daisy Ginger¡¯s back.


    Today she wore a thin ck dress with a round neck, sharply tailored, straightening her silhouette.


    Watching Daisy Ginger enter the elevator, the man looked away, took a puff of his cigarette, his brow slightly furrowed, his injured fingers clenched for a moment, and unfrozen blood droplets dripped down from the reopening wound on the back of his hand.


    He felt somewhat irritable, the dry weather of winter making him feel a certain difort.


    *


    Daisy Ginger got into the car, somewhat tired, resting her arm on the steering wheel, burying her head in her forearm, taking a deep breath.


    Feeling hardly able to breathe.


    Her heart was tense, as if blocked by a huge stone.


    Thoughts scattered.


    Regret, anger, frustration, discard, and profound exhaustion seeping from her bones.


    Have I truly made a mistake¡ª


    Was it wrong from the start?


    Knowing Edward Stephens lost his memory and stayed with Emily Ginger, shouldn¡¯t have tried to save this rtionship?


    She didn¡¯t know how to deal with Edward Stephens who didn¡¯t love her; possessiveness was wrong, anger was wrong, even being kind to him was wrong.


    Daisy Ginger sighed softly in resignation; only when all the boiling emotions in her chest had cooled did she lean back in the leather chair, closing her eyes, lighting a cigarette.


    That was thest cigarette in her bag.


    She vaguely realized that she had been smoking more frequently recently.


    This wasn¡¯t good news.


    Something once used to refresh her now seemed to be used to drown her sorrows.


    She didn¡¯t understand why she turned into this despite Edward Stephens already returning.


    Clearly, he was the one who initially told her to wait, yet he was also the first to let go; her mother had forgotten her, and Edward Stephens had also forgotten her¡ªthe two people she loved most abandoned her eight years ago.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s brow was tightly furrowed; she bit her lips, her face slightly distorted by pain.


    Why am I the only one who has been left behind.


    Why am I the only one suffering so much now.


    She knew she couldn¡¯t me anyone, yet her heart had a lingering, unnamable grievance.


    *


    A monthter, the Linton family presented the Ginger Residence with a withdrawal from the engagement.


    The procedure of withdrawing from the engagement was handled by Daisy Ginger on behalf of Abigail Perry; she could hardly say anything more.


    With Emily ying mad, the Linton family would never marry a mad young mistress into their doorstep¡ªthis was the reality.


    Those wealthy wives who once befriended Abigail Perry all received the news and were gone in a sh; no one visited Abigail Perry, who apanied Emily Ginger daily by the hospital bed; meanwhile, Abigail Perry seemed to realize the importance of her daughter after Emily Ginger¡¯s illness, disconnecting with those wealthy wives.


    The day Ian Linton and Emily Ginger withdrew from their engagement, he suddenly called and asked if she could go out for a drink after work.


    Daisy Ginger listened to his hoarse, painful voice on the phone; she hesitated for a moment but agreed.


    The meeting ce was a nearby music bar; after work, Daisy Ginger arrived at the bar and saw Ian Linton sitting in decay at the bar counter. Upon seeing her, he waved a hand.


    She hadn¡¯t met Ian Linton for almost a month, and feeling somewhat unfamiliar seeing him at this moment.


    His hair had grown, and there was a patchy stubble on his chin. In the dim bar light, he seemed much more disheveled than before.

 Chapter 138 - 137: Understandable

    <h4>Chapter 138: Chapter 137: Understandable</h4>


    Daisy Ginger walked over, smiled at him, and sat down next to him, ordering a cocktail.


    Ian Linton said in a low voice, "I actually still love her."


    Daisy took a sip of her drink and responded, "Hmm."


    "It¡¯s quite pathetic, right?" Ian gave a bitter smile, his light brown eyes seeming to hold a whirlpool of pain. "I clearly still like her, yet I chose to break off the engagement, abandoning her when she needed support the most."


    Daisy was silent for a while, then said, "She doesn¡¯t remember you anymore. Even if you were with her, it would only be forced."


    Ian asked, "She doesn¡¯t remember me, so can I be justified in giving up on her?"


    Daisy lifted her hand and took a sip of the cocktail; the alcohol content was high, but it tasted like nothing in her mouth.


    She drank half the ss in one go and said, "Maybe..."


    She couldn¡¯t continue speaking.


    Ian was like a mirror reflecting her own embarrassment in the world of emotions.


    She doesn¡¯t remember me, so can I be justified in giving up on her?


    I clearly still like her, yet I chose to break off the engagement.


    ...


    Daisy clenched her hand, lowered her head, and pressed her lips tightly.


    Don¡¯t say any more.


    Isn¡¯t it even more pathetic and embarrassing for her, who still can¡¯t let go?


    She clings to a man who doesn¡¯t belong to her, lingering in the warmth he once gave, afraid of ending up all alone.


    She stayed silent and downed a ss of drink.


    Perhaps sensing her bad mood, Ian said nothing further, quietly ordering a few more drinks she liked.


    After a while, Daisy was already somewhat drunk.


    Shey on the bar, frowning a bit wearily, her small face appearing both gorgeous and decadent under the dim bar lights, like a drunk rose.


    Ian put down his drink; if Daisy were sober, she¡¯d notice that Ian hadn¡¯t taken many sips ¡ª his ss still full.


    Ian tilted his head, observing Daisy resting her face on her arm, frowning with her delicate eyebrows. Her hairzily draped down, with a few strands falling onto her lips, dampened by the drink, giving off a sense of decadence yet a lure.


    How beautiful, he thought, as his fingers lifted involuntarily to gently stroke her smooth cheek, feeling the soft warmth at his fingertips. The man¡¯s eyes softly squinted, then he swept aside the stray hairs by her cheek.


    "Director Ginger," he leaned in, looking at Daisy¡¯s stunning features, gently said, "Let me take you home."


    Daisy¡¯s brow furrowed in distress, the alcohol magnifying her emotions, exposing the hidden pain in her heart through her expression at that moment.


    "Ian..." she felt herself being lifted, and as she opened her eyes, she saw Ian¡¯s face; a bit ufortable, she struggled slightly, "Put me down, I can walk..."


    "..." Ian didn¡¯t respond; his strong arms firmly held her, lifting her from the bar and carrying her out.


    Daisy was gently ced in the front passenger seat.


    Her mind was hazy, her upper body weakly leaning against the car door, and she was pulled back by Ian.


    The unfamiliar scent on the man made her ufortably open her eyes. Ian¡¯s brown eyes were right in front of her, and his fingers softlybed through her hair, gently saying to her, "Director Ginger."


    "..."


    "If it¡¯s really that painful, why not let go?"

 Chapter 139 - 138: "Director Ginger.

    <h4>Chapter 139: Chapter 138: "Director Ginger.</h4>


    If it¡¯s really that painful, why not let go?


    ...


    These words, like a needle, pierced into Daisy Ginger¡¯s mind, first awakening her subconscious.


    "No!"


    Her mind was unclear, but her refusal was strong and decisive. She looked at the man¡¯s face in front of her, her voice hoarse: "No one has the right to tell me to give up on you, Edward Stephens, you told me to wait for you, what gives you the right!"


    Ian Linton raised his hand, his fingertips gently touching her cheek, but his tone was calm, "But he doesn¡¯t love you at all."


    "..." Daisy Ginger was slightly stunned, her eyes, seemingly filled with mist, opened wide for a moment, carrying confusion and intense pain.


    "Everyone sees it, Edward Stephens doesn¡¯t love you." Ian Linton said indifferently, "Everyone sees it, can¡¯t you see it?"


    "..." These words filled Daisy Ginger¡¯s pride with shame. For someone so proud and confident, the word arrogance was almost carved into her bones. The thought of how many people mocked her rtionship with Edward Stephens behind her back made her so ufortable that she wished she could tear their mouths apart. She leaned closer, grabbing Ian Linton¡¯s cor, her unfocused eyes still arrogantly lifting her chin, defiantly saying, "I don¡¯t care. Let them say whatever they want, I don¡¯t care."


    "..." Ian Linton looked at her demeanor and finally couldn¡¯t help but chuckle softly, his thumb wiping across her cheek, gently calling her name: "Director Ginger..."


    He gazed intently at her face, his light brown eyes gradually deepening, like the spreading fog in winter, masking all his gentle emotions.


    He smoothed her hair and then said, "Director Ginger, let me take you home."


    Daisy Ginger was slumped in the passenger seat. She wasn¡¯t very drunk, so her reason was still intact, but rationality was eroded by alcohol, her logic impaired, unable to speak clearly, her emotions unmanageable.


    The alcohol made her sad. She slowly gathered her slender legs, curling up in the passenger seat, softly responding: "Hmm."


    Ian Linton turned the car around and drove toward her residence in the city center.


    After being quiet for a while, Daisy Ginger whispered, "I want to smoke. Do you have cigarettes with you?"


    Ian Linton nced at her expression, his voice gentle: "Director Ginger, you should smoke less."


    Daisy Ginger was unhappy, pursing her lips, "None of your business."


    "If you smoke now, you¡¯ll burn yourself."


    "I won¡¯t."


    ...


    Ian Linton found that talking to a drunken Daisy Ginger was a very pleasant thing.


    Hmm... she¡¯s much cuter than when she¡¯s sober.


    He smirked and deliberately pulled out a cigarette to tease her: "Find which end is the burning end, and I¡¯ll give this cigarette to you."


    Daisy Ginger crouched in the passenger seat, squinting like a cat, holding the slim cigarette and looking at it. After a while, she confidently grabbed one end and said to Ian Linton, "This side!"


    Ian Linton gently said, "Wrong."


    He took the cigarette back, "I told you, you¡¯d burn yourself."


    Daisy Ginger was very dissatisfied, the alcohol preventing her from managing her emotions. She reached out with apetitive spirit: "Again!"


    Ian Linton reached out, grabbing her slender fingers, nced down at her, unable to hold back augh: "Director Ginger..."


    He lowered his head and, smiling, kissed Daisy Ginger¡¯s fingertip.

 Chapter 140 - 139: Touching her feels like blasphemy.

    <h4>Chapter 140: Chapter 139: Touching her feels like sphemy.</h4>


    The unfamiliar touch made Daisy Ginger pause slightly. She nced at him and quickly withdrew her hand.


    Ian Linton parked the car at Daisy Ginger¡¯s door, then found the key to open the door in her bag.


    He reached out, lifted her out of the car, and steadily opened the door to enter the house.


    He turned on the light, nced around at the furnishings in Daisy¡¯s house. It was his first time here, and there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes.


    After looking around for a bit, he voluntarily carried Daisy upstairs.


    Daisy smelled the familiar scent of the room and calmed down, letting Ian hold her andy her on the bed.


    Ian went into her bathroom, wet a towel, and came out to wipe her face.


    Daisy was already asleep on the bed, her breathing even, only her eyebrows were slightly furrowed. Her delicate face looked vaguely pained.


    Ian sat by the bed, lowered his head, and watched for a long time. In his brown pupils, there was a deep infatuation hidden.


    Finally, he slowly raised his hand and gently ced his palm on Daisy¡¯s cheek. The warmth exchanged at their fingertips, and Ian felt a shiver of excitement run through every pore, an indescribable thrill.


    ¡ªTouching her felt like sphemy.


    Forbidden yet exhrating.


    He took a deep breath, suppressing the electric current surging through his body, gazing at Daisy¡¯s sleeping face, and involuntarily lowered his head.


    Breathing in, he smelled the faint rose fragrance tinged with the scent of cocktails on her body, decadent yet pleasant. He gazed at her flushed lips, carefully lowering his head to touch...


    The ss window suddenly lit up brightly. Ian¡¯s actions paused slightly. He raised his head to look at the window, the ring light making him squint, and he got up to walk to the window ledge.


    A ck Bentley Mulsanne was parked at Daisy¡¯s door, the headlights aimed directly at the window, lighting up Daisy¡¯s bedroom.


    Ian looked calmly at the young man who emerged from the car, his Adam¡¯s apple bobbing as he squinted slightly.


    *


    Edward Stephens closed the car door, holding a bag, and walked over to press the doorbell.


    "Ding-dong¡ª"


    He knew Daisy was home, after all, the light was on upstairs, but he didn¡¯t know if she would open the door for him.


    He waited patiently for a while, and when no one answered, he pressed the doorbell again.


    This time, someone dide.


    Edward saw the well-dressed man who came out from inside, his narrow eyes squinting slightly.


    "Mr. Stephens," Ian Linton smiled at him, "are you here to see Director Ginger? She got drunk, and I just brought her back."


    He always maintained a respectful demeanor like a junior, even his tone was mild, and no one could find fault with his attitude.


    Daisy really liked his humility, feeling that this young man was sincere and polite, getting along very well with him.


    To be honest, Edward didn¡¯t have much of an impression of him, other than knowing he was Emily Ginger¡¯s fianc¨¦. But now, seeing himing out of Daisy¡¯s room, he was indeed a bit surprised.


    "Drunk?" Edward said slowly, "You brought her back? ¡ª You?"


    Ian gave a gentle smile, "Director Ginger got off work, had a bit of a drink with me, couldn¡¯t hold her liquor very well, and got a bit drunk."


    Edward pursed his lips, said nothing more, and entered the house, cing the bag he was holding on the sofa.


    As he did all this, Ian didn¡¯t leave. He stood at the door, in white shirt and ck pants, elegant and courteous, still smiling, warmly calling out, "Mr. Stephens."

 Chapter 141 - 140 "Is This Your Business?

    <h4>Chapter 141: Chapter 140 "Is This Your Business?</h4>


    Edward Stephens nced back lightly, maintaining a calm andposed demeanor, and gave him a look.


    "You¡¯ve made Director Ginger very upset. She is your wife; don¡¯t let her be too sad."


    Edward Stephens¡¯s expression remained gentle and indifferent, without saying a word.


    "Don¡¯t let her constantly drown her sorrows in alcohol. Her stomach isn¡¯t good, and drinking too much puts a heavy burden on her body." Ian Linton¡¯s voice was gentle, carrying a bit of amiable advice, without any aggressiveness.


    Edward Stephens took a cigarette out of his trousers, bit it on his lips, and lit the tip with a lighter.


    With a calm demeanor, he asked quietly, "Is this something you should be concerned about?"


    Ian Linton was slightly taken aback, then nodded, feeling a bit embarrassed as he lowered his head, "I¡¯ve known Director Ginger for many years. Seeing her upset today, I couldn¡¯t help but say a few more words. I hope Mr. Stephens won¡¯t mind."


    His attitude was like a friend standing up for Daisy Ginger, with a perfect bnce of tact and intention.


    Edward Stephens looked at him indifferently, "I heard you just broke off your engagement with your fianc¨¦e today. I didn¡¯t realize you were in the mood to care about how someone else¡¯s woman feels."


    Ian Linton pressed his lips lightly, and when he raised his head, he returned to his usual gentle and refined manner, nodding slightly to Edward Stephens, "I just have a good rtionship with Director Ginger, and I can¡¯t bear to see her upset and disappointed. If Mr. Stephens doesn¡¯t like to hear it, then I won¡¯t say it anymore."


    He nodded apologetically to Edward Stephens, then turned around and left.


    Edward Stephens, with a cigarette in his mouth, stood there, watching Ian Linton¡¯s departing figure.


    This man...


    He pondered for a moment, unsure where his wariness and hostility towards Ian Linton came from.


    It was just a subconscious feeling that Ian wasn¡¯t as harmless as he appeared.


    But being raised in a prominent family, having some pretense and scheming is normal. Edward Stephens stubbed out the cigarette, turned around, picked up the bags on the sofa, and went upstairs.


    *


    Going upstairs, Edward Stephens found Daisy Ginger lying sprawled out on her bed, asleep.


    Just as Ian Linton said, it seemed she went to the bar right after work, and now shey there without even removing her makeup.


    He walked over, looked down at her, then reached out to pat her face, calling her name: "Daisy Ginger."


    He called a few times, but got no response. Edward Stephens frowned slightly, nced at her thin blouse and fitted skirt, hesitated for a moment, but eventually rolled up his sleeves.


    ...


    Daisy Ginger woke up to the morning of the next day.


    The hangover feeling wasn¡¯t great. She propped her forehead up with her hand, sitting up in bed, and nced at her inside-out pajamas, momentarily puzzled.


    There was a gap in her memory; she had no idea how she ended up back here. Herst memory was drinking with Ian Linton at a music bar.


    Thinking of that, she was slightly taken aback, instinctively looking outside, only to see Edward Stephens asleep on the sofa.


    Somehow, the current situation felt strangely familiar.


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, lifted the covers, and got out of bed barefoot.


    When she made a sound, Edward Stephens woke up. Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t look at him, passed by him, and went into the bathroom.


    Soon, the sound of water falling from the shower was heard.


    Edward Stephens had sat on the sofa all night without a good sleep, feeling a bit exhausted as he buried his face in his hands, closing his eyes slightly.


    Half an hourter, Daisy Ginger came out of the bathroom with wet hair, wearing a silk robe.


    She looked refreshed, walked to the dressing table, took out a hairdryer, and began drying her hair.

 Chapter 142 - 141: You Can Leave

    <h4>Chapter 142: Chapter 141: You Can Leave</h4>


    In the room, no one spoke, only the "whoosh" of the hairdryer in Daisy Ginger¡¯s hand could be heard.


    The warm air scattered the fresh and elegant fragrance on her body after the shower into the air. Edward Stephens opened his eyes and looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s back turned to him, with her fluffy, curly long hair and slender, graceful waist wrapped under the silk robe.


    At this moment, the bright morning sun had just started peeking through, casting pale pinkish shadows on the transparent ss window, enveloping the room in a hazy scene.


    The woman¡¯s silhouette, the damp fragrance in the air, the dim and misty light indoors, and the gradually rising morning sun outside... Edward Stephens felt as if he were gazing at an old oil painting, carrying a hint of fantasy and unreality.


    He rubbed his temples and gently began to speak as Daisy Ginger turned off the hairdryer, "Was it Ian Linton who took you home yesterday?"


    Daisy Ginger lowered her head, pulled out the hairdryer¡¯s plug, and wrapped the cord around the handle, as if she hadn¡¯t heard him speak.


    Edward Stephens said lightly, "Have you been getting close to himtely?"


    Daisy Ginger pulled open the drawer, put away the hairdryer, and stood up from the chair.


    She turned around, crossed her arms, leaned against the wall with her chin slightly upraised, her bright eyes staring at the man sitting on the sofa opposite her.


    "I would like some instruction¡ªMr. Stephens, what identity are you assuming while asking me these questions?"


    Edward Stephens¡¯ jawline tightened as he looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s defiant posture, narrowing his eyes slightly: "You¡¯re a young woman alone drunk in front of a man, asking him to bring you home¡ªdon¡¯t you worry that something inappropriate might happen?"


    Daisy Gingerughed mockingly, "I understand my rtionship with Ian, do you think everyone is like you and Emily?"


    She leaned forward, standing in front of Edward Stephens, bent over to look at him, and taunted, "Old lovers, unfinished business, one man and one woman alone in a room... Did you really do something impulsive with her, and now you¡¯re imagining things between me and Ian?"


    Edward Stephens¡¯ eyes darkened, he reached out to grasp Daisy Ginger¡¯s wrist, feeling her delicate, slender frame, as if a little force could easily break it. He subconsciously eased his grip, then warned deeply, "Daisy Ginger, don¡¯t talk nonsense!"


    "Ha." Daisy Ginger scoffed again, disdainfully prying his hand away, walking over to the bedside table to find a pack of cigarettes, leaning against the window, blowing the cold air while leisurely lighting a cigarette with matches.


    Her voice was cold, carrying a slight hoarse timbre unique to her voice, without any emotion, "What are you doing here?"


    "My mother¡¯s tailor made you a few outfits for autumn."


    Daisy Ginger fell silent, lowered her head, smoking alone, seemingly having nothing more to say to him.


    No one knows how long passed before Daisy Ginger¡¯s voice came softly, "You can leave now, Edward Stephens."


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t move from his seat, only raised his eyes, frowning slightly as he looked at her.


    Daisy Ginger lowered her head, her voice growing even more indifferent and cold, "Alright, I know Auntie asked you to bring clothes to me. It¡¯s hard for you toe looking for me, you can go back to take care of Emily. You can leave now."


    Edward Stephens stood up from the sofa.


    He didn¡¯t walk toward the door but instead walked up to Daisy Ginger, who stood by the window with her head down.


    He raised his hand, his fingertip falling toward Daisy Ginger¡¯s pointed chin, and as his finger approached her, she pressed the cigarette butt into his palm.

 Chapter 143 - 142 Apologies [Revised, please reread]

    <h4>Chapter 143: Chapter 142 Apologies [Revised, please reread]</h4>


    Edward Stephens¡¯ hands were long and fair, firm and steady, as the cigarette butt rested in his palm, not moving a bit, holding her jaw.


    Her head was forced upwards, meeting the man¡¯s eyes, deeper and darker than most, hiding anger and inquiry, butcking what she desired.


    She felt Edward Stephens¡¯ cool fingertips lightly touch the corner of her eye, Daisy Ginger stood there without blinking, looking at him coldly.


    Edward¡¯s hand wrapped around hers, holding her cigarette butt in his palm, his gaze fell, quietly observing Daisy¡¯s face, then he sighed softly.


    He said, "Don¡¯t get too close to Ian Linton, he¡¯s no good."


    "Emily¡¯s illness hasn¡¯t been diagnosed even now, they¡¯re living and eating together every day, Ian can¡¯t be unrted."


    "She¡¯s just a madwoman now, she can be quieter when I¡¯m there, she seems to like you a lot too. If you don¡¯t want me to stay there, you can go be with her for me."


    Daisy asked, "In what capacity are you speaking to me now?"


    Edward looked at her quietly and said in a soft voice, "I¡¯m sorry."


    Daisy¡¯s long eyshes quivered slightly, her lips slowly tightened, looking at Edward silently.


    His gaze dropped, leaving a quiet shadow, and in a low voice, he said to Daisy, "Give me a bit more time. I¡¯ll take on the responsibility of being a husband."


    "I don¡¯t need a husband who runs faster than her man when another woman is in trouble."


    Edward was silent for a moment, then gently held Daisy¡¯s hand, replying, "I¡¯m sorry. It won¡¯t happen again."


    His warm body temperature spread from his fingertips to his palm, Daisy¡¯s lips involuntarily trembled, an indescribable feeling of grievance spread from deep within her heart.


    She looked at Edward, the man with the profound eyebrows and deep eyes also looking at her, his gaze always filled with deep affection, yet Daisy did not know, how much of her was truly in his heart.


    This marriage, after all, was something she forced; no matter how Edward treated her, she couldn¡¯tin.


    "I don¡¯t know how much longer I can wait for you." Daisy suddenly said, "Edward Stephens, I don¡¯t know how much longer I can wait for you."


    Edward was slightly stunned, his deep gaze taking on a tinge of heaviness, and he asked, "What are you saying?"


    "I don¡¯t know how much longer I can wait for you." She looked deeply at him, her eyes seeing through his face to the distant past where he was a boy. She softly said, "Edward Stephens, I really don¡¯t know how much longer I can wait for you..."


    You asked me to wait for you, but I always feel, I can¡¯t hold on for much longer.


    Will you me me?


    When you remember everything, will you me me for not keeping my promise, for not waiting for you toe back?


    "Edward Stephens, I didn¡¯t want you to marry Emily Ginger because I was afraid one day you would regret it." She looked at his face, her tone as tender as talking to the boy she loved most deeply, "But suddenly I felt, maybe it would have been better if you two had been together from the beginning."


    In that way, Emily Ginger might not have gone insane.


    She might only need to suffer for a while, then find relief.


    Like how now, trapped in the grave of this marriage, suffering madly because of his lovelessness, she wouldn¡¯t exist.


    She would let go of this man, would love another man, and no longer have to be heartbroken for him.


    In this, the only one who might go insane is the Edward Stephens who regains his memory¡ª

 Chapter 144 - 143: Everyone Is Happy

    <h4>Chapter 144: Chapter 143: Everyone Is Happy</h4>


    "But I can¡¯t be this selfish." She smiled at him, "The pain you gave me, I¡¯ll return it to you."


    She tiredly lowered her head and rested her forehead against the man¡¯s chest, "Edward Stephens, please, fall in love with me soon."


    I¡¯m afraid that I can¡¯t wait, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll leave you behind, I¡¯m afraid my selfish nature will leave you alone eight years ago, with a strange woman beside you in your dreams in the middle of the night, driving you insane alone.


    "If you fall in love with me sooner, I won¡¯t me you."


    "I can forgive everything about you, including the fact that you once loved Emily Ginger."


    "Just love me. I¡¯ll forgive you."


    ...


    Edward Stephens unconsciously touched her shoulder. His brows furrowed slightly, and in a deep voice, he said, "Daisy Ginger, what are you talking about?"


    "You don¡¯t need to understand, you just need to fall in love with me."


    Saying such absolute words, her breath trembled.


    Edward Stephens felt, she might be crying.


    His heart sank slightly, reaching out to pull her face out of his embrace, but Daisy Ginger suddenly pushed him away, turning her face toward the window without looking at him.


    "Leave."


    ...


    "I¡¯m giving you one more chance." She said, her back to him, her voice naturally husky, calm and gentle, "The matter with Emily Ginger, indeed, I was inconsiderate, I shouldn¡¯t have driven a girl out on a rainy day."


    ...


    "Love is jealousy. I hope one day you understand the reason I drove her away, rather than coldly telling me it was my fault." She turned her head, her beautiful features now calm, the earlier intensity in her tone seemed to have subdued, she reached out, gently took the cigarette butt from Edward Stephens¡¯s palm.


    Her touch revealed a blister burned into his palm.


    "I don¡¯t know why you spoke so harshly to me the other day, and why you¡¯vee to apologize today. Did Lady Stephens say something to you?" She softly caressed the bloody wound, gently said, "But I hope you remember what you said today. If you lie to me, I won¡¯t forgive you even in death. By then, it won¡¯t be as simple as divorce."


    She forcefully used her nails to break the blister in his palm, Edward Stephens frowned, watching Daisy Ginger¡¯s actions but did not stop her.


    "Go downstairs, have someone take care of it." Daisy Ginger wiped her blood-stained fingertips with a tissue, looked up at him, "Although I want to hit you, I don¡¯t want to see you get hurt anymore. Don¡¯t harm yourself carelessly again."


    She tossed the tissue into the bin, looked up at Edward Stephens, "Leave. I want to be alone for a while."


    The man quietly watched her for a moment, then finally turned and left in silence.


    Daisy Ginger watched his back, thinking, perhaps he is very confused now.


    He doesn¡¯t understand her deep feelings, nor her obsession, only knowing that from the moment he arrived in Banyan City, he was bound by her emotions, and all of this has been painful for him.


    She doesn¡¯t want to hurt him, but hates him for forgetting her, afraid to tell him the past, yet angry that he doesn¡¯t care about her past.


    She is torn, in pain and turmoil, yet ultimately can¡¯t bear to let him suffer for her again.


    Daisy Ginger closed her eyes, sighed softly, hugged her knees, and buried her face in them sitting on the sofa.


    If only Edward Stephens could fall in love with her now¡ª


    All¡¯s well that ends well.

 Chapter 145 - 144: Arrogant Due to Favoritism

    <h4>Chapter 145: Chapter 144: Arrogant Due to Favoritism</h4>


    Edward Stephens came downstairs and sat on the sofa, silently lighting a cigarette.


    The servants in the room saw his injury, and, frightened, thought he had been abused by Daisy Ginger. They carried over a medical kit, but Edward waved them away.


    "No need." He dabbed at it with a tissue and said calmly, "Go about your own business."


    "But this..."


    The servants looked at each other, but with Edward¡¯s refusal, they couldn¡¯t insist on treating his injury.


    After finishing one cigarette, Edward, still a bit annoyed, lit another.


    ¡ªSinceing to see Daisy, he seemed to smoke more often than usual.


    Lady Stephens knew about the cold war between him and Daisy.


    But unexpectedly, this time, Lady Stephens didn¡¯t force him to go look for her.


    The news about Emily Ginger¡¯s madness had spread like wildfire through Banyan City, and it had long reached Lady Stephens. She was aware he was in the hospital to stabilize Emily¡¯s condition.


    Justst night, she suddenly found him, handed him a bag of brand new clothes, and said to him, "If you want to divorce Daisy, make preparations quickly; don¡¯t keep stringing the girl along."


    When Lady Stephens said this, her demeanor and tone were quite calm. Under the dim corridor lights, there was a touch of an unusual seriousness about her.


    At that moment, his heart skipped softly, like a flutter¡ª


    Perhaps it was unreasonable, but Edward knew he...


    had never thought of divorcing Daisy.


    To suddenly hear it from Lady Stephens left him stunned, unable to react for a moment.


    Seeing his expression, Lady Stephens must have caught on to something but only pressed her lips, gave him a push, and said, "Take the clothes to Daisy and say... I sent her some autumn wear. And then, apologize properly; if you¡¯re sincere, Daisy will forgive you."


    "You are Daisy¡¯s husband now. What business do you have with other women? Just because... just because Daisy likes you, you bully her!" As if growing more agitated as she spoke, Lady Stephens¡¯s tone turned sharper, "Had I known, had I known this would happen, I wouldn¡¯t have..."


    She pressed her lips as if swallowing her words, only casting him a resentful nce, "Fool, not half as shrewd as Daisy. How did I end up with such a foolish son!"


    ...


    Anyway, she ended up berating him in a roundabout manner and then kicked him out of the house.


    Of course, he didn¡¯t think he was foolish.


    It¡¯s just that...


    He didn¡¯t really care.


    He always felt that his rtionship with Daisy was dispensable, one-sided from her side.


    Instinctively, he knew that no matter what he did, Daisy would forgive him; after all, she was so easy to please¡ª


    This might be another kind of arrogance arising from being the favored one.


    Indeed, selfishness is amon w in humanity.


    *


    Daisy Ginger changed her clothes and slowly descended the stairs, only to see Edward Stephens leaning on the sofa, lost in thought about something unknown, his hand bleeding all over the floor.


    She frowned, nced at the servant beside her, who, in a state of panic, quickly said, "I¡¯m sorry, Miss Ginger, it¡¯s because Mr. Stephens refused treatment."


    "Go bring the medical kit," she instructed softly, then walked over and sat opposite Edward Stephens.


    The man, holding a cigarette in his mouth, slowly raised his head and looked at Daisy.


    "You just said¡ªdid we know each other before?"


    Daisy was expressionless: "Won¡¯t you go ask your mom?"

 Chapter 146 - 145: You and Mr. Stephens... have already reconciled, haven’t you?

    <h4>Chapter 146: Chapter 145: You and Mr. Stephens... have already reconciled, haven¡¯t you?</h4>


    Edward Stephens was scolded by her, so he stopped asking questions.


    "Miss Ginger, the first aid kit has been brought to you."


    The servant carefully brought the first aid kit over to Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy Ginger silently reached out to take the kit, found the burn ointment and alcohol wipes inside, and then looked up at Edward Stephens, saying: "Give me your hand."


    The man looked at her for a few moments and slowly offered his burned hand to Daisy Ginger.


    His hands were long and slender, with well-defined knuckles. He was good-looking, and even his fingers were wless. The wound on his palm, caused by Daisy Ginger, hadn¡¯t stopped bleeding. Its edges were burned, giving an unsightly, charred appearance that made one frown.


    Daisy Ginger, expressionless, cleaned the edges of his wound with an alcohol wipe. The man sat there motionless, as if the hand wasn¡¯t his at all.


    Soon, the wipe was stained red with blood.


    Daisy Ginger switched to another one and continued cleaning.


    The servant, watching from the side, twitched his eyes as he watched Daisy Ginger treat the burn as if dealing with an enemy. Meanwhile, Edward Stephens seemed entirely unfazed, as if the bloody burn wasn¡¯t even on his own body. He said nothing, resting his chin on his hand with an intrigued look, curious about what Daisy Ginger would do next. The scene was particrly strange.


    A few of the younger girls couldn¡¯t bear to watch any longer, sneaking away to one side, not daring to look.


    Daisy Ginger discarded the second alcohol wipe and finally applied a bit of burn ointment on Edward Stephens¡¯ wound.


    The man let out a soft breath ofughter.


    Daisy Ginger paused, nced at him, "What¡¯s funny?"


    Edward Stephens said, "Nothing."


    "..." Daisy Ginger¡¯s face darkened.


    Edward Stephens exined, "I thought you would use up the entire pack of alcohol wipes before applying the medicine."


    "..." Daisy Ginger gave him a sideways nce with a slight sneer, dabbed some powder on his wound with a cotton ball, wrapped a bandage around his hand a few times, and said lightly, "I¡¯m not as idle as you think."


    Having done all that, she stood up from the sofa, slightly tilted her chin at Edward Stephens, and said coldly, "Get lost."


    Edward Stephens leaned on the sofa, not immediately standing up. He watched her for a while with a cigarette between his lips before slowly rising from the sofa. With one hand in his pocket, he walked over to stand in front of Daisy Ginger, looking down at her.


    "When can I get my things?"


    Daisy Ginger: "When I¡¯m pleased."


    "And when will you be pleased?"


    "Depends on my mood."


    Edward Stephens nodded, sliding his long fingers across the bandaged wound on his palm, "Alright."


    This lesson was truly unforgettable.


    *


    Near the end of the workday, Daisy Ginger received a call from Ian Linton.


    "Ian," she held the phone between her shoulder and ear, quickly signing documents on her desk, her tone gentle, "What¡¯s up?"


    Ian Linton¡¯s voice was just as warm and pleasant as ever: "Director Ginger, do you have time to have dinner together?"


    "Sorry, Ian, I promised my aunt I¡¯d have dinner at her ce today." Daisy Ginger said apologetically, "Perhaps another day. I¡¯m busy these days."


    "..." Ian Linton paused, showing a momentary silence. After a brief moment, his voice quietly reached her, "Director Ginger, you and Mr. Stephens... have made up, have you?"


    It was unclear whether it was due to a poor signal, but Ian Linton¡¯s words sounded somewhat unfamiliar.


    ***


    Requesting rmendation votes~

 Chapter 147: The Storm is Coming

    <h4>Chapter 147: Chapter 147: The Storm is Coming</h4>


    Daisy Ginger handed the signed document to Oliver Rubio, then leaned back in her leather chair and said to Ian Linton, "Ian, the rtionship between Edward and me is a bit difficult to exin to you."


    She spoke tactfully, hinting that Ian Linton should drop the subject.


    But the man, who was usually good at reading people¡¯s expressions and knowing his boundaries, seemed unusually out of control today for some reason.


    Ian Linton said, "Director Ginger, Edward Stephens doesn¡¯t love you at all. Why do you humiliate yourself and settle for a man who doesn¡¯t care about you? You clearly deserve better!"


    Daisy Ginger was momentarily stunned by his somewhat excessive words but quickly reacted. Her beautiful, delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly, and she lowered her voice, "Ian, this is a matter between Edward and me. It has nothing to do with you."


    "He¡¯s already left you twice for another woman. Aren¡¯t you afraid of a third time?!"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s brow furrowed tightly, finding Ian¡¯s loss of control a bit strange. She spoke softly and calmly to Ian, "Ian, are you feeling unwell? Take some time topose yourself, then call me back. In your current state... we have nothing to discuss."


    With that, she decisively hung up the phone unterally.


    She sat in her office chair, frowning slightly, feeling mildly annoyed.


    Ian Linton was usually gentle and refined, always speaking within the bounds, and getting along with him felt like a spring breeze. But those few sentences just now were too much; in what capacity was he venting his anger at her?


    No matter how big the problems with Edward Stephens were, they were personal issues, and Ian¡¯sments were inappropriate.


    This guy, maybe he¡¯s drunk.


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, feeling a bit ufortable with what was said.


    *


    The Linton n¡¯spany office building.


    Ian Linton stared at the phone that had been hung up.


    His jade-like face instantly darkened.


    He looked down at Daisy Ginger¡¯s name in the contact list, his thin lips pressed tightly together.


    His light brown eyes seemed to harbor a vortex of dark emotions, and he slowly clenched the phone in his hand until it let out an overwhelmed creak. Only then did he slowly close his eyes, taking a deep breath to suppress the boiling emotions inside.


    When he opened his eyes again, the man¡¯s expression was calm, although the color of his eyes hadn¡¯t faded fully, with the edges of his pupils tinged with a faint darkness, giving a chilling impression.


    The secretary standing nearby cautiously handed him a document, nervously saying, "Young Master Linton, here¡¯s a..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Ian Linton grabbed the document and mmed it into her face, his voice carrying an underlying fury as he coldlymanded, "Get out!"


    The young secretary burst into tears from being hit, bending down to pick up the documents from the floor while sobbing, and stumbled out of the office.


    *


    Daisy Ginger finished her dinner, sitting on the sofa with a remote control watching TV.


    Lady Stephens handed over a te of sliced fruit eagerly, saying, "Daisy, these peaches just flew in from Ennd. Give them a try."


    Daisy Ginger took a bite with a toothpick and smiled at Lady Stephens, "Very sweet. Thank you."


    Lady Stephens moved behind her and ced her hands on Daisy¡¯s shoulders, "Daisy, Auntie learned some massage techniques these past few days. You¡¯ve been sitting in the office all day; you must be tired. Let Auntie give you a rxing massage."


    Daisy Ginger felt ticklish from her touch, couldn¡¯t help butugh, "No need, Auntie, I have a personal trainer for massages."

 Chapter 148: A Girl’s Mouth, Full of Lies

    <h4>Chapter 148: Chapter 148: A Girl¡¯s Mouth, Full of Lies</h4>


    Lady Stephens pinched Daisy¡¯s shoulder, speaking mournfully, "Daisy, you haven¡¯te by for so many days, and you didn¡¯t even call to chat with Auntie. Auntie has been waiting for your call every day at home."


    Her tone was as pitiful as the wife abandoned by a scoundrel.


    Daisy chuckled endlessly, "I¡¯ve been pretty busy with worktely..."


    "Being busy doesn¡¯t mean you can¡¯t call Auntie!"


    Daisy could only obediently admit she was at fault, "I¡¯m sorry, it won¡¯t happen again."


    Lady Stephens was satisfied this time, came over to sit beside Daisy, held one of her hands in her palm, and ced it on her ownp, gently patting the back of her hand, "Daisy has been married here for so long, and I seem to not have given anything worthwhile so far. Just recently, I¡¯ve been tidying up the house and found a jade bracelet. I think the size is just right."


    Saying this, Daisy then felt something cool being slipped onto her right hand.


    She lowered her head, nced at the jade bracelet, and was startled, instinctively pressing Lady Stephens¡¯ hand, "Auntie, I can¡¯t ept it! This... is too valuable!"


    The bracelet on her right wrist was bright green all over, with vivid colors, crystal-clear. Even if one is not an expert, they can see at a nce that this bracelet is meant to be a family heirloom.


    Jade is priceless, a pendant with good water will easily reach a million, and Lady Stephens¡¯ gift probably exceeds tens of millions.


    She couldn¡¯t possibly just ept such an expensive gift, stubbornly refusing to take it.


    Lady Stephens looked at her gloomily, saying, "Daisy thinks Auntie¡¯s gift is too old-fashioned? I know you young people don¡¯t fancy these old antiques..."


    Daisy got goosebumps from her gloomy tone, "Auntie, no need, I¡¯ll remember toe visit you often in the future."


    Lady Stephens: "You girls lie so much with your sweet talk, walking out the door and forgetting everything!"


    Daisy: "..." Has Lady Stephens been learning how to banter these days?


    Not far away, Edward Stephens came in munching an apple from the courtyard; he had just returned from a night run, his ck hair damp with sweat, slicked back revealing a prominent forehead and perfect silhouette. Seeing Lady Stephens and Daisy in a deadlock on the sofa, he nced at them, his gaze momentarily sweeping over the emerald bracelet on Daisy¡¯s wrist, then swiftly retracted.


    Daisy was still not on great terms with him, but seeing him nce at her once then ignore, looking like he was about to shower upstairs, couldn¡¯t help but call out, "Edward Stephens, manage your mom!"


    Edward Stephens paused halfway up the stairs, eating half his apple,zily leaning on the railing he nced at her, looking somewhat nonchnt, "If she gives it to you, just keep it."


    Daisy, hearing him say that, furrowed her brow a bit displeased, whereas Lady Stephens was very satisfied, giving Edward Stephens a nce to scram, then patted Daisy¡¯s hand, smiling brightly, "The bracelet suits Daisy beautifully. I have a few sets of earrings and nes back at the old house, I¡¯ll have them sent over together."


    Daisy looked at her helplessly, "Auntie, I really can¡¯t ept any more."


    "Anyway, we¡¯re family, Auntie¡¯s things are Daisy¡¯s, is there really a reason not to ept?"


    She spoke innocently and adorably, while Daisy felt a mix of emotions listening.


    Her fingers brushed the smooth bracelet, gazing at Lady Stephens¡¯ gentle smiling eyes, she sighed lightly, extending her arms to embrace Lady Stephens¡¯ petite frame.


    "Auntie... sorry, I haven¡¯t visited you for too long."


    Lady Stephens patted her back, her tone gentle, "Daisy, remember toe and apany Auntie; Auntie will be delighted." She raised her hand, stroking Daisy¡¯s face tenderly, worriedly saying, "It¡¯s been a month without visiting; Daisy¡¯s gotten thinner. Haven¡¯t you been eating well again?"


    Daisy nestled against her palm, her gaze softening, saying softly, "It¡¯s just been busy with worktely..."


    ...


    Having apanied Lady Stephens chatting until nine-thirty, Daisy finally used the excuse of needing to work tomorrow to escape.


    The Stephens family maid saw her going upstairs, being very attentive, following behind her saying, "Miss Ginger, your pajamas and tomorrow¡¯s clothes have been delivered to the bedroom. If you need anything, we¡¯ll prepare it for you immediately."


    ¡ªThe household status, clear at a nce.


    Daisy fingered the jade around her wrist, somewhat preupied, halted at the maid¡¯s words, looking up at them, "Hmm? Which bedroom was it delivered to?"


    "Of course, the young master¡¯s bedroom!"


    "No." Daisy said, "I won¡¯t sleep there. Please prepare another guest room for me, I¡¯ll sleep elsewhere."


    "Err..." The maids, ttering misjudged, looked at each other wordlessly.


    Suddenly the nearby bedroom door opened, Edward Stephens appeared at the doorway drenched, wearing a bathrobe, standing tall, with short hair dripping wet, glimmering droplets trailing down his long neck disappearing below.


    Seeing people at the door, he squinted, asked: "What are you doing?"


    "Err..."


    The maids dared not say Daisy wanted separate rooms, stammered incoherently, not daring to meet Edward Stephens¡¯ gaze.


    Edward Stephens furrowed his brow, wondering what shenanigans his family was up to, when Daisy quietly stomped the floor, raising her voice lightly, "Hurry up!"


    At hermand, they relievedly rushed away.


    Once they were gone, Daisy turned away, lowered her head, removing the bracelet, handing it to Edward Stephens.


    She didn¡¯t look at him, said ndly, "I appreciate your mom¡¯s kindness, but this bracelet is too valuable, I can¡¯t ept it."


    Edward Stephens nced at her, said calmly, "This is passed from our family to the daughter-inw. Since she gave it to you, you should keep it."


    She was right, it truly is a family heirloom, even more reason not to ept.


    Daisy said, "Its significance is too profound, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll break it, you return it to her."


    Edward Stephens eyed her, asked, "Are you afraid of breaking it, or just don¡¯t want it?"


    Daisy slowly raised her head, met the deep browed gaze of the man before her, only nced at him briefly then retracted her gaze.


    She took back her hand, said "Oh," ndly, "Then I¡¯ll keep it for you."


    After that, she pursed her lips briefly, seeming to find it dull, said no more, walked ahead slowly.


    Edward Stephens stood there, watching Daisy¡¯s figure disappear around the corner, re-entered his bedroom, seeingid beside his sleepwear was a set ofdies¡¯ silk pajamas, took it up, slightly furrowed his brow.


    ...


    On a silent night, Daisy had just finished bathing, she opened herptop, leaning at the bedside began handling umted files; not far away in the adjacent room, a lighter "click" lit a me, fire licking at a cigarette, Edward Stephens leaned on the windowsill, calmly gazing at the night sky, quietly smoking an entire cigarette alone.

 Chapter 149: "Daisy Ginger, how can you degrade yourself like this!

    <h4>Chapter 149: Chapter 149: "Daisy Ginger, how can you degrade yourself like this!</h4>


    On the day she ran into Ian Linton again, it was an evening when she and Edward Stephens were having dinner at a Western restaurant.


    He seemed to have just apanied a few clients outside, and when he saw her and Edward Stephens seated across from her, his expression clearly froze for a moment.


    Daisy Ginger had already finished the steak and was savoring thest dessert. Seeing him, she greeted him brightly.


    "Ian, long time no see."


    Ian Linton looked at her, then at Edward Stephens, before nodding towards her.


    Several tables away, Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t clearly see Ian Linton¡¯s expression, but seeing him leave with the clients after greeting her, she didn¡¯t think much of it.


    After dinner, Edward Stephens paid the bill, and Daisy Ginger said to him, "I¡¯m going to the restroom."


    The man responded, "Shall I apany you?"


    "No need." Daisy Ginger shook her head, "I¡¯ll be right back."


    Edward Stephens leaned in front of the cashier, watching her leave.


    In the past few days, perhaps as a form of making up, Edward Stephens had been dropping her off and picking her up from work.


    Daisy Ginger couldn¡¯t quite exin what this meant.


    Does Edward Stephens have feelings for her? She¡¯s not sure; but saying he doesn¡¯t, he¡¯s willing to coax her.


    He¡¯s more iprehensible than eight years ago.


    If it were back when they just got married, Edward Stephens willing to coax her would have certainly made her happy, but people¡¯s hearts are greedy. Once she got a bit of his attention, she wanted more, and if it was less than before, she¡¯d feel cheated.


    Last time, she got a ring from him, and this time, she got a scar in his palm that will never fade.


    Perhaps one day, she and Edward Stephens will eventually divorce, but on his body, he carries the marks she left on him, just like those he once left on her heart.


    This might be considered eternity too, right?


    *


    After using the restroom, Daisy Ginger washed her hands at the sink, nced in the mirror, took out her lipstick from her bag, and refreshed her makeup.


    When she put the lipstick back into her bag and raised her head again, she saw someone reflected in the mirror behind her.


    Daisy Ginger was slightly startled, turned her head, and saw Ian Linton, "Ian, you haven¡¯t..."


    Ian Linton frowned, without saying a word, but he gripped her wrist and led her into the hallway.


    Stumbling a few steps as he led her, Daisy Ginger finally reacted, "Ian, what are you doing, where are you taking me..."


    Ian Linton suddenly pinned her against the wall, the impact making Daisy Ginger let out a muffled groan. She looked at him somewhat incredulously; in the dim shadow of the hallway¡¯s lights, Ian Linton¡¯s elegant face seemed inexplicably sinister and mad.


    "You really reconciled?!"


    Ian Linton asked her sharply.


    Daisy Ginger widened her eyes slightly,pletely unsure how to react at the moment.


    "After the way he treated you, you really reconciled with him?"


    He looked extremely angry, gripping her shoulders tightly, pressing her against the wall, speaking through clenched teeth, word by word.


    "Daisy Ginger, how can you degrade yourself like this!"


    Looking closely, Daisy Ginger only then realized that Ian Linton¡¯s appearance seemed a bit off.


    His beard seemed like it hadn¡¯t been shaved for several days, with ayer of stubble on his chin; his eyes had red veins, and even his face looked somewhat swollen, unsure if he hadn¡¯t slept well or drank too much...


    Those bloodshot eyes intensely staring at her, the look was not of a normal person, but like that of a madman gazing at some deeply ingrained enemy.

 Chapter 150: Can You Die for Me?

    <h4>Chapter 150: Chapter 150: Can You Die for Me?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was being stared at by his crazed eyes, feeling a chill running down her spine.


    "Ian Linton, are you drunk?!" She struggled a bit, his fingers mped down on her shoulder as if trying to dismantle her bones, causing her to wince in pain.


    But her strength was pitifully insignificantpared to the man¡¯s violent strength; she couldn¡¯t shake off the force he was exerting on her.


    Daisy was a bit anxious and also a bit scared, she shouted sharply, "Ian Linton, let go! If you keep this up, I¡¯ll call for help!"


    Her words seemed to stimte Ian Linton even more, his bloodshot eyes reflecting an unreadable light, speaking to her with an indescribable tone: "Daisy Ginger, I cherish you so much... and yet you willingly degrade yourself! How could you fall so low? You disappoint me deeply, you really disappoint me..."


    Listening to him repeatedly say she "degraded" herself and that she "disappoints" him, Daisy couldn¡¯t understand when she ever gave him "hope," nor did she know what he meant by "degrading."


    Is not meeting his so-called expectations considered "degrading"?


    Daisy pressed her lips together, looking at Ian Linton, trying to calm him down: "Ian, calm down first, can we talk things over? The way you are now... it¡¯s really hard for me to talk to you."


    She felt that her shoulder bones were starting to swell; by then, there might be two distinct finger marks.


    These days, it was unclear what kind of stimtion he suffered to have turned into this...


    Ultimately, Daisy just couldn¡¯t immediately ept that the gentle, sometimes shyly smiling young man was the same person as this frenzied, irritable man.


    Sure enough, Ian Linton slowly calmed down, the redness in his eyes gradually fading; he loosened his grip on her, looking at her with reddened eyes, somewhat lost and disappointed.


    He asked in a low voice, "...Why not divorce?"


    Daisy was slightly stunned; she hadn¡¯t expected him to ask that question.


    Ian Linton looked down, his too-long bangs hanging down, obscuring his expression, only his deep, gloomy voiceing from the dim corner.


    "...To what extent must it reach for you to give up... He has repeatedly abandoned you, hurting you like this, can¡¯t you see he doesn¡¯t truly love you at all! Just takes you out, buys you a few pieces of jewelry; any man in the world can do that for you!"


    "Daisy Ginger, you disappoint me so much, I didn¡¯t know... you were so cheap..."


    "He insults you like this, and you still forgive him, where is your dignity? Where is your dignity!"


    Summoning a strength from somewhere, Daisy pushed him away forcefully.


    Ian Linton, caught off guard, stumbled back a few steps and fell to the ground.


    He raised his head, looking destely at her, his gaze obsessive and crazed.


    Daisy took a few steps away, walking into the light, then turned around, looking at the man sitting silently on the ground.


    Her expression turned stern, she only asked, "Ian Linton, can you die for me?"


    "..."


    "He can."


    Ian Linton¡¯s tightly pressed lips quivered slightly, his eyes fixed on her, lightly trembling.


    Daisy stepped back, "That¡¯s the answer."


    After saying that, she didn¡¯t look at his expression again, silently walking out from around the corner.

 Chapter 151: Returning his life to him is the right thing to do; what is there that is not worth it?

    <h4>Chapter 151: Chapter 151: Returning his life to him is the right thing to do; what is there that is not worth it?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger walked out of the corridor with a somber expression.


    The shoulder pinched by Ian Linton throbbed with an aching pain. She raised her hand and gently rubbed it a few times, cold sweat trickling down her forehead.


    Damn it, could he have cracked a bone?


    She managed to move her shoulder a bit. When the pain subsided, she slowly walked over.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the counter, tall and graceful. From afar, he saw her and began walking towards her.


    Daisy stopped in her tracks, watching Edward approach.


    She tilted her head up, looking at the man¡¯s perfect face under the light.


    As he reached her side, he naturally took the bag hanging on her arm and asked, "Why were you in there for so long?" He nced at her face, frowned slightly, and asked in a deep voice, "What¡¯s wrong with you?"


    Daisy shook her head: "It¡¯s nothing. Just a bit of an upset stomach, had a long time in the bathroom."


    Edward nced at her somewhat pale face. Without suspecting anything else, he asked the waiter to bring a cup of warm water for her to take away.


    Daisy held the water, lowered her head, and took a sip.


    For some reason, she lowered her eyes, couldn¡¯t help it, and chuckled softly.


    "Cheap" or "disappointed," she had always lived for herself.


    Lived for her own desires.


    What did others¡¯ opinions have to do with her?


    No one shared her loneliness and despair during those eight years of waiting for him, so who had the right to criticize her attachment and reluctance to let go?


    He was the one who risked everything for her, the one who ignited fireworks all over the city for her, the one who gambled his life for her. Who could say that every man in this world would do that for her?


    No one else could do these things for her, only he could.


    Only Edward Stephens was willing to risk his life to save her, only him.


    His memory loss was also because of her, and no matter how ruthless he was to her now, it wasn¡¯t as harsh as the knife that pierced him back then.


    Even returning a life to him was justified, what was there not worth it?


    Who did Ian Linton think he was, what right did he have to point fingers at her rtionship with Edward?


    Daisy slowly took another sip of water and handed the ss back to Edward.


    The man took it and tossed it into the trash can.


    Once he did that, Daisy said crisply:


    "Edward, I want some milk tea."


    Edward said, "Didn¡¯t you say your stomach was upset?"


    "How can you be so silly," Daisy said, "You can buy it hot."


    This was the first request Daisy had made to him in days. Edward thought for a moment and felt he should fulfill it.


    He nodded, "What vor do you want?"


    "Strawberry." Daisy pointed to the milk tea shop ten meters away, "If you buy it for me, I¡¯ll let you sleep in my room tonight."


    "..." Edward looked at the popr milk tea shop not far away, then at Daisy standing before him with her chin raised. After weighing his options, he sighed and turned to join the line.


    Daisy watched as the man, frowning, joined the end of the line.


    Under the streetlights, the man¡¯s handsome outline was perfectly visible. Most of the people in line at the milk tea shop were young girls. As he walked over, they all turned their heads to sneak a look at him, making the man¡¯s face grow darker and his frown deepen.


    Yet he still stood there patiently, buying her the milk tea.


    Daisy watched for a while, sighed softly, and smiled with a bit of helplessness.


    So be it, allow him to slowly fall in love with her, seeing as he was queuing up to buy her milk tea.

 Chapter 152 Mood

    <h4>Chapter 152: Chapter 152 Mood</h4>


    She watched for a while and saw a brave young girl take out her phone to add Edward Stephens on WeChat, so she walked over, stood beside him, and put her hands in her pockets, looking ahead.


    She wore a smoky gray wool coat, her lips vividly colored, face lush and exquisite, and fifteen-centimeter high heels enhanced her aura.


    Standing casually next to Edward Stephens was enough to dere her territory.


    Initially, those young girls couldn¡¯t resist stealing nces until they saw Daisy Ginger beside Edward Stephens. Her features were too refined, more vibrant than flowers, making others feel inferior. After a few nces, none dared to attempt anything under her gaze, and they all quieted down.


    Edward Stephens nced down and looked at Daisy Ginger standing beside him. She didn¡¯t pay him any attention, with a lukewarm attitude, staring straight ahead expressionlessly. His lips inadvertently curved into a slight smile.


    *


    After waiting in line for a whole hour, Edward Stephens finally bought the "strawberry milkshake" Daisy Ginger mentioned. She took a sip, said it was too sweet, and tossed it to him.


    She was quite justified now, and Edward Stephens couldn¡¯t say anything, just took it and drank a sip, wrinkling his brow from the sweetness.


    ¡ª¡ªThis syrupy concoction, how does it have people lining up several meters in the city center? Do those who buy this thing have normal taste buds?


    On the way back, it was already half past nine. Daisy Ginger curled up in the passenger seat, yed with her phone for a while, watched a few hrious videos Zoe Hilker sent in the group chat, then grew drowsy and closed her eyes, exhausted.


    Edward Stephens was driving, nced at her, raised the car¡¯s air conditioning temperature a few degrees, and slowed down.


    In the cozy car, Daisy Ginger fell deeply asleep.


    She slept so soundly that even when they arrived at the Stephens family, Edward Stephens parked the car on thewn and carried her out, she didn¡¯t wake up.


    When Edward Stephens carried her into the house, she seemed ufortable in her sleep, frowning slightly in his arms, letting out a soft hum. So he slowed his steps and didn¡¯t turn on the lights, navigating the darkness upstairs into his bedroom.


    Only when he reached to help her remove her coat, down to the thin cashmere sweater underneath, did Daisy Ginger lean against the bedhead and slowly wake up.


    Seeing him, she reached out with warm fingers to hold his hand, pouted a little, and groggily yet assertively asked, "Edward Stephens, what are you trying to do?"


    This adorable, naive state of hers he hadn¡¯t seen in a long time.


    At this moment, for some unknown reason, it made his heart flutter slightly.


    "Do you want to sleep in your clothes?"


    Daisy Ginger snorted, sneering, "I think you want to take advantage of me."


    "..." Edward Stephens paused for a moment, slowly withdrawing his fingers from her palm, standing silently by the bedside looking at her.


    That gaze was full of four words ¡ª unnecessary fuss.


    Daisy Ginger noticed, pursed her lips, "Edward Stephens, are you cursing me in your heart?"


    "No." Edward Stephens retracted his gaze, looking elsewhere, "If you want to sleep in your clothes, then go ahead."


    Daisy Ginger hummed lightly, proudly climbing out of bed and running to the bathroom to bathe.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the bedhead, listening to the sound of water falling from the shower in the bathroom, realizing suddenly that it had been a long time since he felt so rxed as he did that evening.


    He wasn¡¯t sure when it started, but Daisy Ginger¡¯s presence had begun to affect his mood.


    His gaze fell into the void, deepening slightly.

 Chapter 153: Related to You

    <h4>Chapter 153: Chapter 153: Rted to You</h4>


    Daisy Ginger finished her shower and came out, deliberately wearing a long-sleeved nightgown to cover the bruises on her shoulders from Ian Linton¡¯s grip.


    There wasn¡¯t any special reason, just simply not wanting Edward Stephens to see them.


    Anyway, she would handle the matter with Ian Linton herself.


    Edward Stephens was leaning against the bedhead with his eyes closed, rxing, until the bed dipped slightly as Daisy climbed up.


    He turned to the side and opened his eyes to look at Daisy.


    Her hair was already dry, emitting a faint fragrance of shower gel, ity fluffy and loose over her shoulders, the air filled with a light scent of roses.


    Daisy leaned against the bedhead, applying a face mask, and noticed Edward¡¯s gaze, casting him a nce.


    The man looked at her quietly, with seemingly no special emotion in his eyes, but just being gazed at by his deep ink-like eyes felt very affectionate.


    It¡¯s almost cheating.


    Daisy felt her heart stir slightly under his gaze, and pouted, "Why are you looking at me?"


    "..." Edward closed his eyes.


    Daisy got upset, reached out, and tugged at his eyelids, "Open them for me!"


    Edward sighed softly, looked at her, and asked, "What do you want?"


    "Am I pretty?"


    "Pretty."


    "Am I prettier than Emily Ginger?"


    "Yes."


    Daisy raised her chin a bit, feeling a little smug, and finally let him go.


    She removed the face mask, turned off the light, got under the covers, hugged his waist, and snuggled into his embrace, "Let¡¯s sleep."


    The heat from her body transferred to his skin, and the faint rose scent surrounded his nostrils. Edward opened his eyes, leaning against the pillow, inhaling Daisy¡¯s scent quietly, letting out a silent, light sigh.


    Such a delicately nurtured, thorny rose, held in his hand, he didn¡¯t quite know how to handle her.


    He had lived freely for so many years, getting whatever he wanted, this lifetime of his had neverpromised for anyone except Robert Stephens; being forced to break up with Emily and marry Daisy was already his life¡¯s biggest humiliation, if he still had to...


    Edward couldn¡¯t help it and sighed audibly.


    With her eyes closed, Daisy ordered dominantly in his arms, "Don¡¯t disturb my sleep."


    Edward, annoyed, couldn¡¯t hold back and bit her ear.


    In the darkness, Daisy let out an "ah," followed by a low groan from Edward.


    *


    The next day, Lady Stephens found a bruise on her son¡¯s chin.


    She opened her eyes wide like she discovered a new continent, "Did you walk into a wall on your night walk, dear?"


    Edward watched as Daisy walked past him without even ncing his way, and said faintly, "Bumped into someone."


    Can that even happen?


    Lady Stephenspassionately came over to squeeze it, "Be careful next time, this bump is quite severe."


    It was indeed severe, nearly knocking him out.


    Edward: "Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s usually hard to bump into me."


    Daisy sat in the dining room, listening to their conversation, and rolled her eyes.


    She hadn¡¯t even used Edward of biting herst night, and now he was the oneining first.


    She was sleeping soundly when Edward struck first.


    *


    The next day after work, Ian Linton called to apologize, saying he got drunkst night and spoke nonsense, asking her not to take it to heart, and invited her over for dinner.


    Daisy epted his apology but declined the invitation.


    The Gingers had business dealings with the Linton n, and Daisy didn¡¯t want to make the future of the twopanies awkward, especially since Ian was going to inherit thepany someday.


    Besides, she distinctly remembered that when he spoke to her that day, he didn¡¯t have much alcohol smell at all.


    Still, she didn¡¯t want to make a big deal out of it. Among adults, friendship came after interests, he imed he was drunk, so she took it as drunken slip-ups, keeping up appearances was enough.


    Future interactions with Ian could only be more distant.


    She had high hopes for this junior, but she vaguely sensed that Ian¡¯s true nature might differ from how he appeared when they first met.


    With someone like that, purely business interactions were more appropriate.


    In the following days, Ian called several times to invite her to dinner forpensation, but she refused them, andter, he stopped calling.


    Daisy didn¡¯t dwell on the matter any longer.


    As for Emily Ginger, Daisy learned that Abigail Perry had annual arrangements to stay in the hospital. After treatment, Emily¡¯s emotions gradually stabilized, no longer impulsively trying to jump off buildings andmit suicide.


    However, she still couldn¡¯t recognize people.


    She used to despise and look down on her sister, but seeing her turn from a healthy individual to this deranged state, Daisy couldn¡¯t continue to harbor resentment, and secretly helped by contacting internationally renowned psychiatrists under the guise of academic exchanges for consultations.


    Yet, even they couldn¡¯t diagnose conclusively, only saying it was severe trauma and mental suppression leading to psychosis.


    As things stood, Daisy had no solution but to ept the fact that Emily had turned insane.


    *


    In the evening, Edward drove to pick Daisy up from work, stopping at the florist to buy a bouquet of red roses.


    There wasn¡¯t any special intention, just seeing the roses blooming beautifully, reminded him of a woman who suited roses perfectly, so he bought them.


    As he left the florist, Ryan Smith called, he nced at the caller ID, raised an eyebrow, and answered.


    "Edward, I¡¯vended," Ryan¡¯s side was noisy, likely at the airport, "there¡¯s progress on the investigation you asked me to look into a few days ago, do you have time?"


    Edward paused in opening the car door, knowing Ryan for years, he detected a certain emotion in Ryan¡¯s voice, furrowing his brow slightly, and asked in a low voice, "...Is it rted to her?"


    Ryan paused, then replied hoarsely, "It¡¯s rted to you."


    *


    At the Royal Residence.


    A half-pitcher of iced water on the crystal coffee table had been drunk.


    On the sofa, Edward¡¯s face showed a brooding silence.


    Ryan looked at his expression, ruffled his short hair dyed orange as well, and drank the iced water quietly with him.


    "This matter, you didn¡¯t actually need to ask me to investigate..." Ryan started, somewhat at a loss, "Back then, it caused quite a storm throughout Banyan City, everyone knew."


    "Did my mom know too?"


    "...Auntie has lived in Banyan City for so long, how could she not..."


    Ryan didn¡¯t continue speaking.


    Rather than saying Lady Stephens was aware, it was more urate to say that everything now was all orchestrated by Lady Stephens herself.


    The more Ryan thought, the more conflicted he felt, messing his neat short hair into a bird¡¯s nest.


    In his life, he¡¯d never encountered such a perplexing matter!


    Edward closed his eyes, leaned back on the sofa, and said nothing more.


    He was so clever, just a few hints, and he could piece together the causes and effects.


    Only, he really hadn¡¯t expected...


    He turned his head and looked at the bouquet of red roses on the coffee table that he had bought for Daisy.

 Chapter 154: Want to Threaten Me? Change Your Personality First

    <h4>Chapter 154: Chapter 154: Want to Threaten Me? Change Your Personality First</h4>


    The roses are bright and alluring.


    Anyone who has met Daisy Ginger might easily associate her with flowers.


    She is a woman who is very aware of her looks and charm, and knows how to amplify her allure. For instance, the body lotion she uses every day carries a subtle rose scent.


    Edward Stephens looked at the roses for a while, then slowly withdrew his gaze and asked Ryan Smith, "Who else knows about this?"


    His expression was serious, and his eyes deep, shedding the usual rxed demeanor and showing the upbringing under the Stephens family.


    Ryan also toned down his frivolous expression, looking at Edward, "Besides your mom... currently, I don¡¯t think anyone else knows." He nced at Edward¡¯s rarely gloomy expression and guessed something, "Edward, are you..."


    Before he could finish his sentence, the phone on the table vibrated, prompting him to fall silent and watch Edward take the call.


    The room was very quiet,pletely isting any noise from outside, so when the woman¡¯s crisp voice came through the phone, it was especially clear.


    "Edward Stephens, where did you wander off to again? Are you abandoning me!"


    Edward said, "Aren¡¯t you still at work?"


    "But I¡¯m almost done with work!"


    He lowered his gaze and said softly, "A friend from abroad came to visit, and I got dyed a bit. Wait for me a few minutes in the office, I¡¯ll call you when I arrive."


    "Oh." Edward could imagine her expression while saying this¡ªprobably pouting again, "You can¡¯t let me wait too long. Sitting in the office chair is tiring."


    "Hmm, I¡¯ll be quick."


    After hanging up the phone, Edward looked up to see Ryan staring at him with an expression of disbelief.


    He pocketed his phone, maintaining a calm demeanor, "What¡¯s up?"


    "What do you have to doter?!"


    "Pick her up from work."


    "You¡¯re ying chauffeur in Banyan City?!" Ryan looked like he was about to explode, "The legendary genius of the Stephens family is ying chauffeur? Edward Stephens," he lunged forward as if to strangle him, "I¡¯ll give you ten million dors a year toe back to the United States with me. I¡¯ll hire a hundred drivers to pick up your wife!"


    Edward rolled his eyes at him and kicked him back, "I¡¯m not interested in your money."


    Ryan was so angry he wanted to scratch him, Edward took a sip of water, "Stop fooling around."


    "Do you like her? Why are you spoiling her so much!"


    Edward said ndly, "I¡¯ve got nothing better to do."


    "Damn it, shut up!" Ryan was furious, pointing at his nose, "You left me in the United States to suffer, and you¡¯re telling me you have nothing to do..."


    Edward put down the water ss and stood up from the sofa, "It¡¯s gettingte, I¡¯m going to pick her up."


    Ryan rolled around on the couch in frustration, "No way, you have to go back to the United States with me, Edward Stephens, or we can¡¯t be brothers anymore!"


    Edward rolled his eyes at him, casually grabbed the bunch of roses, and said in a calm tone, "If you want to threaten me, first change your personality."


    "..." Ryan paused for a moment, looking at him suspiciously, "Really?"


    Edward: "..."


    This shameless guy.


    "I say, you haven¡¯t really fallen for her, have you?" Ryan sat up from the sofa, his short orange hair tousled like a fluffy bird¡¯s nest. He pursed his lips, rare for him to worry about his friend, "This is a bit tricky, Edward. Do you want to tell her first?"


    "There¡¯s nothing tricky about it." He lit a cigarette, holding it between his lips, and said in a calm, indifferent tone, "Just don¡¯t let a fourth person know."


    *


    Please vote for rmendations

 Chapter 155: Already Married Anyway

    <h4>Chapter 155: Chapter 155: Already Married Anyway</h4>


    The thin smoke gradually spread over the sharply contoured face of the man. Ryan Smith watched his calm demeanor, unable to understand why Edward Stephens could remain so calm when things had be such a hassle.


    Leaning back on the sofa, he ruffled his hair and said, "Handle it yourself. After all, you¡¯re married." After that, he couldn¡¯t help but mutter, "What kind of mess has your mom gotten into this time..."


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze and stepped forward, "I¡¯m leaving."


    He walked out of the royal mansion and sent a message to Daisy Ginger, [I¡¯m on my way.]


    Only then did he open the car door and get in.


    His deep eyes gradually settled, returning to their usual look. Ryan¡¯s words were like drops of water into the sea, slowly disappearing without a trace.


    *


    Daisy Ginger, carrying her bag, angrily opened the car door, nning to give a good scolding to the "driver" who was half an hourte, only to be greeted face-first with a bouquet of roses.


    Instinctively, she took the flowers, holding them in her arms with a bewildered face. Seeing Edward Stephens sittingzily in the driver¡¯s seat looking at her, her angry expression hadn¡¯t yet faded, and her sharp little face appeared somewhat dazed.


    "Don¡¯t like it?" Edward leaned over, plucked a rose petal from her hair, and said lightly, "I thought it suited you."


    "..." Daisy had an expression of unspeakableplexity, finallyposing herself and getting into the car, lifting her chin in a prideful manner, "Hmph."


    Edward found her changing expressions quite amusing, a slight smile appearing at the corner of his eyes, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "Unmotivated kindness is either treachery or theft."


    "Nonsense," Edward said with augh, "I just bought a bouquet while passing by. Where did you get all those ideas?"


    Daisy, holding the flowers, gently sniffed the luscious roses, not wanting to admit she was a bit pacified by his gesture.


    She changed the topic, "Where¡¯s that friend of yours who came back from abroad? Not inviting him out for dinner?"


    "He¡¯s a busy man with girlfriends all over the world. Who knows which cozy ce he might be in now."


    Daisy disyed a disgusted expression, "What a jerk!"


    "Everyone gets what they want," Edward started the car, "Where do you want to eat?"


    "I want something light."


    Edward responded, adjusted the navigation, "Then let¡¯s go for Cantonese food."


    *


    The Cantonese restaurant was nearby, only ten minutes away.


    Daisy got out of the car with the bouquet of roses, Edward nced at it, "Just leave it in the car. No one¡¯s going to steal it."


    Daisy rolled her eyes at him, muttering under her breath, "Insensitive man, no sense of romance."


    But Edward heard her and slightly raised his eyebrows, saying nothing.


    "Mr. Linton, this way please." Behind them, the waiter said courteously. Daisy turned at the sound, seeing Ian Linton, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in almost a month, elegantly stepping out of the car.


    He no longer appeared as frantic and deranged as when theyst ran into each other at the western restaurant. He now exuded the sophisticated and refined aura of a mature man, his hair cut short and stubble gone, suave and back to the regr "Ian Linton" self.


    He didn¡¯t see her and walked to the passenger side, personally opening the door. A delicate hand reached out from inside, taking Ian Linton¡¯s arm. Following that, a pretty and lively face peeked out from the car. The beautiful woman wore a striking wine-red fitted dress, the hemline just above her knees, and ck high heels that made her calves look long and slender.

 Chapter 156: A Fangirl

    <h4>Chapter 156: Chapter 156: A Fangirl</h4>


    In Banyan City, there were only a few wealthy kids, and Daisy Ginger recognized the girl holding Ian Linton¡¯s arm with just one nce as the most cherished youngest daughter of the Brooke family, Chloe Brooke.


    Watching the girl gaze at Ian Linton with bright eyes, Daisy Ginger could tell¡ªthese two young people were probably in the throes of a passionate romance.


    Following her gaze, Edward Stephens also saw the young couple stepping out of a car not far away. His expression unchanged, he calmly looked away, utterly uninterested, and took a menu from a waiter before leading Daisy inside. "What do you want to eat?"


    Daisy Ginger nudged his waist and puckered her lips at him, gossiping, "Can I interview you about how you¡¯re feeling right now?"


    Edward Stephens rolled his eyes at her, "You¡¯re nuts."


    Daisy Ginger also found herself a bit silly. What did it matter that Ian Linton was dating someone else? He had already broken off his engagement with Emily Ginger, so it was only natural for him to find a new girlfriend. It wasn¡¯t as if he had to ¡¯mourn¡¯ for Emily Ginger for three years, right? Rtionships these days change so quickly anyway.


    Yesterday it was a burning passion, today a new me; perfectly normal.


    "Hmm, pass the menu here so I can take a look." Daisy started contemting what to eat tonight as well.


    They walked a few more steps inside, though Daisy was taking her time while looking down at the menu.


    Just as she was deciding on dishes with Edward Stephens, a sudden "Ah!" from behind¡ªa girl¡¯s shriek¡ªcaught her attention. Daisy felt a small whirlwind sweep behind her. Curiosity piqued, she turned and saw that girl Ian had been with standing not far away, face flushed with excitement. Upon meeting Daisy¡¯s gaze, the girl¡¯s small ears turned bright red.


    "You..." Daisy frowned slightly, "Miss Brooke, do you need something?"


    Chloe Brooke eximed with excitement, "Director Ginger, you know me?"


    Daisy Ginger pondered for a moment, "I work with your dad."


    "Oh..." Chloe¡¯s gaze dimmed briefly, then, as if struck by another thought, she hastily pulled a notebook from her bag, offering it to Daisy gingerly and shyly, "Director Ginger, I¡¯m a fan. Can you, can you give me an autograph?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger was left somewhat speechless.


    "I¡¯ve admired you since I was a kid. You are my idol! Finally seeing you in person today, you¡¯re even more beautiful than I imagined!"


    Daisy Ginger: "..."


    Admired since she was a kid... Daisy wasn¡¯t that much older, right...


    While at school, Daisy had encountered fervent junior fans, but since taking over thepany, she hadn¡¯t faced such situations in a long time and was momentarily caught off guard.


    She nodded nonchntly, "Do you have a pen?"


    "Oh right, let me find one!" After rummaging through her bag, Chloe couldn¡¯t find a pen. Instead, she took out an Armani lipstick, handed it to Daisy while blushing, and softly asked, "Is it okay to use lipstick?"


    Daisy didn¡¯t mind, taking the seemingly brand-new lipstick, she mboyantly signed her English name across Chloe¡¯s notebook.


    "All done." She handed back the notebook and lipstick, nced briefly at Ian Linton who hadn¡¯te over, then turned her gaze back to the girl in front of her¡ªwho seemed a bit pampered and headstrong, yet essentially innocent¡ªand gently said, "Go have dinner, and get home early."

 Chapter 157: More Arrogant Than Her

    <h4>Chapter 157: Chapter 157: More Arrogant Than Her</h4>


    Chloe Brooke looked at her, her face flushed and full of surprise,


    Daisy Ginger smiled at her, looped her arm through Edward Stephens¡¯, and walked with him to the second floor of the restaurant.


    Once Daisy¡¯s figure disappeared from sight, Chloe, with slightly red cheeks, turned back and saw Ian Linton, feeling a bit embarrassed, "Darling, I¡¯ve kept you waiting!"


    Ian Linton¡¯s handsome and gentle face wore a faint smile as he said softly, "It¡¯s okay. As long as you¡¯re happy."


    What Chloe liked most was his gentle and indulgent demeanor. She reached out, looped her arm through Ian¡¯s, and gave him a peck on the cheek, "You¡¯re the best, darling!"


    Ian remained unchanged in expression, calmly taking her into the restaurant, "What do you want to eat tonight?"


    ...


    After ordering, handing the menu to the waiter, Daisy Ginger proudly flicked her tail at Edward Stephens, "Did you see that? I can charm both men and women."


    Edward nodded, "I saw."


    "You better be careful, if I get whisked away you¡¯ll never find me back."


    Edward chuckled, "Where do you n to run to?"


    Daisy propped her face up, twirling her long hair with one hand, nced at himzily, "With my looks, finding someone better looking and richer than you is just a matter of closing my eyes."


    Edward took a sip of iced water, "That you can¡¯t be sure of."


    Daisy raised her chin, "Are you saying I¡¯m not pretty enough?"


    "I just think there¡¯s no one better looking and richer than me in this world."


    Daisy: "..."


    Even more conceited than her?


    Daisy burst outughing, reached out to pinch his face, "That¡¯s not wrong."


    No one better looking than him is richer, and no one richer than him looks better, which makes it seem like she¡¯s got the best deal?


    Daisy¡¯s tail wagged a little, feeling a bit secretly pleased.


    Cantonese cuisine suited Daisy¡¯s taste, she ate quite a lot, while Edward seemed lost in thought at times, sometimes staring dazedly, other times just sitting there watching her eat, his deep dark eyes often seemed full of untold stories, especially when he was actually pondering something.


    Daisy couldn¡¯t see what he was thinking, just unsure whether to ask him.


    Being able to simplye out with Edward for a meal, chat, and talk was already a joy for her, she didn¡¯t know about his matters, and wasn¡¯t sure if she should meddle.


    After finishing dinner, Daisy sat enjoying her dessert when Edward got up to pay the bill at the cashier.


    "Want to eat anything else, we can have them pack it up."


    Returning after settling the bill, Edward saw Daisy still seated, asked.


    "Oh, I¡¯m full." Daisy put down her dessert, stood up, and looped her arm with Edward¡¯s arm, "If you have something important to do, just let me know, there¡¯s no need to force yourself toe out for a meal with me, I¡¯m not that unreasonable."


    Edward reached out to take the bouquet of roses Daisy had ced on the seat, paused slightly upon hearing her words.


    He lowered his eyes, looking at Daisy¡¯s curled eyshes, her gaze was straight ahead, not focused on him.


    "The matter I had my friend investigate a few days ago has results now, but it¡¯s a bit unexpected," Edward ced the flowers into Daisy¡¯s arms, "There¡¯s nothing urgent, don¡¯t overthink it."


    "Are the results not good?" Daisy turned her head, her brows furrowed with some concern.

 Chapter 158: Impostor

    <h4>Chapter 158: Chapter 158: Impostor</h4>


    Edward Stephens looked at her delicate brows and eyes, his expression calm and indifferent, "It¡¯s up to people, there¡¯s nothing good or bad about it."


    His words sounded so dismissive!


    Daisy Ginger hugged the flowers and pouted, "Anyway, you just don¡¯t want to tell me."


    "Some things are meaningless whether you know them or not," Edward Stephens led her outside, "besides, even if I told you, you wouldn¡¯t understand."


    "..." Was her intelligence being looked down upon?


    Daisy Ginger said defiantly, "I¡¯m actually very smart!"


    Edward Stephens: "Yes, yes."


    *


    By the window on the second floor, Chloe Brooke picked up her phone and clicked a shot towards downstairs.


    Ian Linton was drinking mushroom soup, heard the photo click, looked up, and saw Chloe Brooke holding the phone to her face, looking at the screen with a smitten look.


    Her features were delicate, and making such an expression only added to her girlish charm, yet Ian Linton frowned slightly, retracting his gaze as if ufortable.


    "Darling, look how well my idol matches with her husband," Chloe Brooke unted the candid photo she took in front of Ian Linton. Handsome man and beautiful woman, no special angles needed, the picture was stunning.


    In the image, Daisy Ginger had her arm around Edward Stephens, looking up at him as if saying something, even through the image one could see the smile flowing at the corner of her eyes; Edward Stephens cradled a bouquet of roses, face warm and gentle, holding her as they waited for the traffic light.


    Behind them were bustling cars and hurried people, neon lights andndscapes, all bing their backdrop.


    "No wonder she¡¯s my idol, even with such poor quality, it still looks so beautiful."


    Ian Linton responded gently, "Director Ginger is indeed outstanding in appearance."


    Hearing her beloved agree, Chloe Brooke¡¯s expression became slightly excited, much like a fan girl, "Director Ginger is young and beautiful, and talented. When I was in high school, countless boys had secret crushes on her. She always ranked first in exams, leaving the second ce far behind... why is the gap between people so wide?"


    Hearing Chloe Brooke praise Daisy Ginger, Ian Linton¡¯s expression also softened slightly, he lowered his head, casually sipping his mushroom soup, and said softly, "She was excellent since childhood."


    Chloe Brooke praised Daisy Ginger effusively, then sighed, "Mr. Stephens is also so handsome and charismatic."


    Ian Linton¡¯s eating paused slightly, his face¡¯s smile bing somewhat rigid.


    Chloe Brooke didn¡¯t see him, just holding her face, said, "Hero saving beauty, life and deathmitment, if it were me, I wouldn¡¯t marry anyone else either." In a dreamy tone she said, "Daisy Ginger waited for him for eight years, and he finally fulfilled his promise from eight years ago toe back and marry her... such a divine romance."


    Ian Linton put down his utensils, speaking in a cold voice, "He doesn¡¯t deserve her."


    "...Ian?" Chloe Brooke was startled by his cold tone,ing back to her senses, she looked at him somewhat confused.


    Ian Linton also realized his loss ofposure, he took a breath, a hint of a smile appearing on his handsome face, saying to Chloe Brooke, "Are you praising other men in front of me hoping to make me jealous?"


    "I..." Chloe Brooke, realizing what she said, saw the teasing on his face, blushing slightly, said shyly, "Ian, don¡¯t think like that, how could I dare covet Director Ginger¡¯s husband, I¡¯m just longing for their love, that¡¯s all. Besides, whether or not someone likes you, it¡¯s not like you can¡¯t tell."


    She pouted a bit, looking a bit endearingly naive.


    Ian Linton looked at her expression, his eyes briefly concentrating, then reached out and stroked her long hair, gently saying, "The stories of others may not be as perfect as they seem from the outside. There¡¯s nothing to envy, do you also hope we separate for eight years and then get back together?"


    Chloe Brooke grasped his hand, kissed the back of his hand, "I don¡¯t want that, I want us to be together every day."


    Ian Linton smiled at her, "Let¡¯s eat."


    He withdrew his gaze, the smile in his eyes disappearing when he looked down.


    *


    At night, Ian Linton sent Chloe Brooke home.


    Chloe Brooke, in high heels, bent down to kiss Ian Linton on the face, then waved at him, "Ian, be careful on your way back."


    Ian Linton responded, "You get some rest early."


    Chloe Brooke smiled sweetly, nodded, and then skipped into the house.


    Ian Linton withdrew his gaze, leaned back in the leather seat, lit a cigarette, and took a draw.


    In the smoke, the man¡¯s previously gentle look now appeared indifferent.


    He squinted his eyes, recalling the image of Daisy Ginger he saw tonight, thinking of her clothing style today, her body curves, every smile...


    No matter how pampered they are, no woman has the domineering aura that Daisy Ginger possesses. She¡¯s like a light too harsh, stinging one¡¯s corneas, yet one is reluctant to look away from her.


    No matter how many "imitations" there are, her presence makes everything else feel dull and colorless.


    Chloe Brooke is pretty, young, pampered and elegantly raised by the Brooke family, perhaps liking Daisy Ginger is why some of her habits and clothing styles tend to lean towards Daisy Ginger, that¡¯s why he first noticed her.


    However, when the "imitation" stands next to the original, the difference is immediately apparent.


    Not as beautiful as Daisy Ginger, not as confident, not as pretty, and not possessing her aura.


    It¡¯s like a ss of wine diluted with too much water, nd and tasteless.


    Ian Linton exhaled a puff of smoke slowly, slightly narrowing his eyes.


    But then again, how could there possibly be a second Daisy Ginger in this world?


    And such a Daisy Ginger ended up being squandered by a man like Edward Stephens.


    Ian Linton extinguished his cigarette, leaned back in the leather seat, took a deep breath, and closed his eyes with a somber face.


    The resentment in his heart felt like a raging fire, threatening to burn his insides to ashes if not suppressed by reason.


    *


    Ian Linton got engaged again.


    When Daisy Ginger heard this news at a business banquet, she couldn¡¯t help but be in a slight daze for a few seconds.


    Once sobbing destely at a bar about still being in love with Emily Ginger, now dressed to the nines with another woman by his side.


    And the once-engaged, formerly pregnant Emily Ginger is now still in the psychiatric ward, crazily deluded.


    She felt a slight difort, but also knew this feeling was irrational.


    ¡ªSome people enter a rtionship quickly, and withdraw just as quickly; some are slow to warm, and slow to leave.


    But one couldn¡¯t me Ian Linton for leaving too quickly, could they?


    It¡¯s been several months, getting into a new rtionship, confirming feelings, is a responsible approach.


    Moreover, with Emily Ginger now a madwoman, who could me him for finding someone new?


    Cutting losses promptly, that¡¯s the way of grown-ups.


    Daisy Ginger self-consoled and soon stopped giving the matter any further thought.

 Chapter 159: I Am Very Passionate

    <h4>Chapter 159: Chapter 159: I Am Very Passionate</h4>


    Although Daisy Ginger no longer had any connection with Ian Linton, his new little girlfriend took the initiative to approach her.


    Not only did she get her father to personallye and request Daisy¡¯s contact information, but she also frequently messaged Daisy on WeChat, calling her "idol" and sometimes sent her homemade cookies, quickly bing very familiar.


    Since others showed kindness to her, and she was the beloved youngest daughter of a business partner, Daisy couldn¡¯t just respond coldly. After some back-and-forth, the two gradually grew familiar with each other.


    So when Chloe Brooke invited her to be a bridesmaid at her wedding, Daisy didn¡¯t refuse.


    *


    December 15th, cloudy and rainy.


    At five o¡¯clock, Daisy got off work and returned home, calling a few makeup artists to give her a bridesmaid makeover.


    Winter nights alwayse early. By five o¡¯clock, it was alreadypletely dark outside.


    Edward Stephens entered the house with an umbre, seeing Daisy dressing up in the hall, he raised an eyebrow in surprise, "Where are you goingter?"


    "Chloe¡¯s wedding ceremony at six-thirty. I¡¯m attending it." Daisy had already pinned up her long hair and smiled at him, "Want toe along?"


    Edward, disinterested, walked over to the sofa and sat down, pouring himself a ss of water, "Not interested."


    "I knew you wouldn¡¯t go," she pouted a little, "I¡¯ll be backte tonight, remember to leave the door open for me."


    Edward nodded, "Okay."


    Daisy sighed lightly, as if recalling something, "Time flies, doesn¡¯t it."


    It had only been two months since Ian Linton and Chloe Brooke got engaged, and now they¡¯re getting married.


    Edward said indifferently, "Some people aren¡¯t sentimental."


    Daisy didn¡¯t expect him to know what she was thinking, she was momentarily stunned, then she walked over, wrapped her arms around his neck, kissed him on the lips, and smiled at him, "I¡¯m very sentimental."


    Looking at her radiant smile, Edward¡¯s deep eyes darkened slightly, revealing a hint of depth. He raised his hand to gently pat her head, "Come back soon."


    "Okay." Daisy smiled and kissed him on the cheek again, then put on the leather coat handed over by a servant, and with the chauffeur waiting at the door with an umbre, she got in the car.


    Edward stood up from the sofa, walked to the door, and watched Daisy wave at him with a smile from inside the car. He nodded and watched as her BMW disappeared from sight.


    [I¡¯m very sentimental.]


    Daisy¡¯s crisp voice shed through his mind again unintentionally.


    Edward lowered his eyes, took a cigarette from his pocket, held it in his lips, and watching the continuous rain at the door, let out a low chuckle.


    With such a smart face, who would have thought she was a fool.


    *


    Edward was allowed to move back from the Stephens family at the end of November by Daisy.


    This meant he¡¯d behaved well recently and was, so to speak, released after serving his sentence.


    Sleeping beside each other these past few days, now with that soft and fragrant little thing absent from his arms, he was truly a bit unustomed and couldn¡¯t sleep well.


    He leaned against the headboard to read for a while, and when he finally put the book down, it was already one-thirty in the morning.


    Attending a wedding indeed meant returningte, so he wasn¡¯t too anxious, and picked up another book until the phone on his bedside table rang.


    He reached for it, and seeing the caller ID, his face immediately turned grim.


    Edward had assumed the worst-case scenario would be Daisy getting into a car ident on her way back, but¡ª


    "We¡¯re from Banyan City Police Department. There was just a car ident near Sunnyside Road, and a female has gone missing from the vehicle, we..."


    *


    Please vote for rmendations~


    Oh oh oh, stirring up trouble, stirring up trouble

 Chapter 160 Kidnapper

    <h4>Chapter 160: Chapter 160 Kidnapper</h4>


    "This is the Banyan City Police Station. A car ident just urred near Sunnyside Road, and a female has disappeared from the vehicle. We..."


    For the first time in his life, Edward Stephens felt his blood turn icy and freeze in an instant.


    The voice of the policewoman on the other side continued, "...Pleasee to the station immediately to assist with our investigation."


    Edward Stephens said, "Okay."


    He hung up the phone. The always-clear mind of his froze for a moment until the phone vibrated sharply again, jolting him back to his senses. He wiped his face and answered the call.


    "Mom," he said, "What happened to you..."


    "The police station just called me," Lady Stephens said, her voice extremely frantic over the phone, "Someone¡¯s missing, that license te... Isn¡¯t it Daisy¡¯s car? Is it Daisy..."


    "It¡¯s not confirmed yet," Edward Stephens said, getting out of bed, opening the closet to take out a ck down jacket, and hurriedly heading towards the door, "Don¡¯t worry too much. I¡¯ll head to the police station now to take a look."


    "How can I not be worried," Lady Stephens cried hoarsely into the phone, her voice filled with sobs, "It must be Daisy, otherwise, why can¡¯t we get through to her now!"


    Edward Stephens slowly tightened his grip on the phone. He rushed downstairs, grabbed his car keys, and dashed into the pouring rain outside. The cold winter air seemed to freeze his breath. Edward¡¯s voice remained steady as he said, "Mom, calm down. I¡¯m heading to the station now."


    Lady Stephens seemed a bit calmed by him, her voice choking several times as she hesitantly said, "I-I¡¯ming too."


    "Have the driver bring you here. It¡¯s raining outside; remember to wear a down jacket."


    He hung up the phone, sat in the car, gripping the steering wheel, looking at the stretch of rain illuminated by the headlights, and took a deep breath.


    Then he lowered his gaze and pressed down on the gas pedal.


    *


    The police station was bustling.


    When Edward Stephens arrived in a hurry, the officer responsible for him quickly walked over and led him to a monitoring room.


    "This is the surveince from Sunnyside Road at around one o¡¯clock this morning." The officer looked serious as he pulled up the footage for him to see. "There was a driver in the car, critically injured, and he¡¯s been sent to the emergency room. Take a look first¡ªdo you recognize that person?"


    Edward Stephens focused his gaze on theputer screen. Due to the rain, the surveince footage wasn¡¯t very clear. He saw Daisy Ginger¡¯s white BMW pass under the camera. He even saw her sitting in the back seat, propping her face, ying on her phone.


    Then, a secondter, a ck Santana at the intersection abruptly elerated, crashing head-on into Daisy¡¯s BMW.


    The video was silent, yet Edward seemingly heard the deafening crash of the ident, his fingers instinctively curling, a sharp pain radiating from his fingertips to his chest.


    The front of the BMW was instantly crushed, the driver trapped between the steering wheel and seat, and Daisy sitting in the rear seat was knocked unconscious by the violent impact.


    A few secondster, a ck unlicensed car emerged from the corner, stopping next to the BMW. A tall man in a ck jacket and baseball cap got out, opened the BMW¡¯s door, and dragged the unconscious Daisy out.


    He swiftly ced her into the car, then returned to the driver¡¯s seat and drove off.


    ...


    The video was short, less than two minutes. Edward Stephens waited a few seconds before asking, "Was there no one in that Santana?"


    The officer replied, "Our technicians examined the car. Despite severe damage to the front, we found automated driving equipment, likely remotely controlled by someone."


    A waiting game of kidnapping¡ªwas it revenge or extortion?


    The officer asked, "Has there been any contact from the kidnappers?"


    Edward Stephens shook his head.


    The officer nced at him, then erged the video footage, capturing a blurry image of the kidnapper in the baseball cap, and asked, "Does this man look familiar to you?"


    Edward Stephens looked at it a few times, "I don¡¯t recognize him."


    The photo was blurry, but with his memory, seeing a face once would make it unforgettable.


    But this man, he had indeed never seen before.


    The officer nodded and said to him, "Mr. Stephens, you should rest for a bit. We¡¯ll notify you immediately if there¡¯s any news."


    Edward Stephens¡¯s gaze remained on theputer screen. After a moment of silence, he asked, "What will happen to her?"


    "We¡¯ll do everything we can to ensure the hostage¡¯s safety. A special case team has already been formed in the city; this is a matter of great concern," the officer said seriously to him, "Rest assured, we¡¯ll give you an exnation."


    Edward Stephens ced his hands on the table, staring at the screen for a while, then closed his eyes slightly before asking, "What if you can¡¯t find her?"


    The officer paused, looking at the young man across from him whose face, under the light, appeared as pure as white jade. He had maintained his calm demeanor until this sentence subtly revealed his emotions.


    The officer patted his shoulder, his tone softening, "Don¡¯t worry; the highway has been locked down. Any developments, and we¡¯ll notify you promptly. Mr. Stephens, please take some rest."


    Edward Stephens said nothing further, simply moving to sit on a bench in the corridor.


    A policewoman brought over a cup of warm water and a nket. Edward thanked her, reaching out to take the cup, only then realizing his hands were frozen, devoid of any sensation.


    After sitting on the bench for a few minutes, the rapid ck of high heels echoed in the hallway. Edward recognized the sound and stood up, seeing Lady Stephens with messy hair walking in from outside, eyes red and tears continuously streaming down a pale face.


    Seeing her son at the end of the hallway, Lady Stephens appeared as though she¡¯d found salvation, stumbling over and grabbing Edward¡¯s arm tightly with icy hands, hoarsely asking, "Edward, where¡¯s Daisy?"


    Edward replied, "Not found yet."


    "..." Lady Stephens was stunned momentarily, tears streaming uncontrobly as she buried her face in her son¡¯s chest, sobbing uncontrobly.


    A policewoman hurried over, addressing the mother and son, "I have something important to ask you two; pleasee with me."


    Upon hearing this, Lady Stephens became agitated, quickly asking, "Have you found Daisy?"


    "It¡¯s about the kidnapper," the policewoman whispered, "We have a suspect in mind, and we hope you can help us confirm it."

 Chapter 161: "Lady Stephens, do you still remember this person?

    <h4>Chapter 161: Chapter 161: "Lady Stephens, do you still remember this person?</h4>


    Upon hearing the female officer¡¯s denial, Lady Stephens¡¯ eyes, which had brightened for a moment, dimmed again.


    She tightly held Edward Stephens¡¯ hand, her fingertips ice cold, still trembling, as she followed Edward into the surveince room.


    Inside, an officer sitting in front of aputer reyed the surveince footage he had just shown Edward Stephens for Lady Stephens.


    When she saw the tall man get off the carriage, Lady Stephens suddenly eximed, "Ah! This person..."


    All three people in the room turned their heads to look at her, and Edward Stephens looked down, noticing his mother¡¯s excited yet pale face, his gaze darkening.


    Lady Stephens hadn¡¯t finished speaking when she immediately bit her lip, fear and tension coloring her expression.


    The two officers exchanged a nce and gently said to Lady Stephens, "We have something we¡¯d like you to help us with, Lady Stephens. Could youe with us?"


    Lady Stephens lowered her head, her face growing increasingly pale for some unknown reason.


    Edward Stephens looked at her and gently called out, "Mom."


    His call seemed to startle her, as her body, wrapped in a white down jacket, trembled violently. She raised her flushed, rabbit-like eyes, nced at Edward, and finally stammered, "O-Officer, what do you want to ask me?"


    "This way, please."


    The female officer made a gesture of invitation, and Edward Stephens and Lady Stephens went out together.


    Walking beside Edward Stephens, Lady Stephens lowered her head, clearly showing her nervousness.


    When they reached the police officer¡¯s office, the male officer spread a file in front of Lady Stephens, and Edward nced at the date on the file: it was from eight years ago.


    His gaze slightly darkened, and a trace of dark gleam appeared in his deep eyes.


    "Lady Stephens, do you remember this person?"


    The officer took a photo from the file and handed it to Lady Stephens.


    It was a young, tall man with a buzz cut, staring straight into the camera, his triangr eyes filled with menace. Even through the photo, it was clear that this young man was no benevolent figure.


    The saying that a person¡¯s face reflects their heart was perhaps a bit true; Lady Stephens looked at the photo, her lips trembling several times, and she covered her face, bursting into sobs.


    The female officer gently handed her a tissue, calming her down for a few minutes. Once she wasposed, the male officer said, "Lady Stephens, let¡¯s keep this brief. This man was just released from prisonst month. We suspect he is connected to this kidnapping case. Think carefully now, when you were watching the video earlier, did you recognize him? Please answer carefully; your response is crucial to solving this case."


    Holding the tissue, Lady Stephens¡¯ face had lost all color, but she seemed to have calmed down, slowly exhaling, and said in a low voice, "It¡¯s him. Even if he turned to dust, I¡¯d still recognize him¡ªthe man who kidnapped Jiu Jiu is this man!"


    With Lady Stephens¡¯ affirmation, the male officer immediately picked up the phone and called his superior. After notifying them, he said to her, "We understand. We¡¯ll now dispatch all avable personnel to apprehend Ervin Osteen."


    Ervin Osteen...


    She hadn¡¯t thought of that name for many years.


    And now, eight yearster, that name came back like a nightmare.


    Lady Stephens¡¯ body swayed slightly, supported by Edward Stephens¡¯ hand, she finally broke down, sobbing loudly in her son¡¯s embrace.

 Chapter 162: Malicious Kidnapping Incident

    <h4>Chapter 162: Chapter 162: Malicious Kidnapping Incident</h4>


    Eight years ago, a sensational case rocked the entire city, and if asked to recall it now, the residents of Banyan City might recount it vividly. For five years, it cast a shadow over the children of major groups in the city whenever they left their homes.


    It was an afternoon in June in Banyan City when seven kidnappers abducted Daisy Ginger, the only daughter of Gabriel Ginger of the Ginger Group. They killed the driver and bodyguard who escorted Daisy to and from school, discarded their bodies in the wilderness, and then, two hourster, made a ransom demand of ny-seven million using a voice changer.


    Gabriel Ginger immediately reported to the police, and an hourter, the police found the corpses of the driver and bodyguard in the suburbs. Their major arteries had been swiftly severed, draining their bodies of blood. The forensic experts spected that within the group of kidnappers who seized Daisy Ginger, there was surely a rogue skilled inbat and killing techniques.


    Although the news was confined within the police and family members, no one knew who exposed it. Almost within an hour of Gabriel reporting to the police, the entire Banyan City media had begun covering the kidnapping case.


    The media attention increased the pressure on the police, but what was most terrifying was that the news of Gabriel¡¯s police report also reached the kidnappers¡¯ ears. They were extremely enraged, cut off Daisy¡¯s long hair, and sent it over, indicating that if there were any more disturbances, they would start killing hostages next. They also raised the ransom to five hundred million, demanding Gabriel prepare five hundred million yuan in cash within a week and deliver it to a specified location a weekter.


    A weekter, when Gabriel went to the location with counterfeit money prepared by the police, a phone call suddenly reached the police. It was a young boy¡¯s voice, iming to have found the kidnappers¡¯ hideout but the situation was urgent, and he could not wait any longer; he intended to rescue Daisy first and hoped they would arrive quickly.


    That boy was Edward Stephens, who the Stephens family had reported missing for three days.


    No one knew exactly how he managed to find Daisy before the police. When the police finally reached the scene half an hourter, they found seventeen-year-old Edward Stephens covered in blood, lying lifelessly in the arms of the disheveled Daisy Ginger. He was promptly sent to an ambnce for emergency treatment. Meanwhile, the kidnappers, discovering their hideout had been exposed, had already scattered like birds and beasts, vanishing without a trace.


    Later, the police took a full six months to bring seven criminal suspects to justice, as used by Daisy Ginger. Several of these individuals were linked to multiple other homicides. Most incredibly, one of them was a minor.


    That was Ervin Osteen.


    Ervin was tall, even taller than some adults, and at the time of the crime, he was just a week shy of turning eighteen.


    It was him who, upon seeing Daisy Ginger during the kidnapping, developed a lustful intent toward her, and during his confrontation with Edward Stephens, stabbed him seventeen times before fleeing with the other six.


    The heinous nature of the case led to six being sentenced to death in their first trial by the People¡¯s Court, yet Ervin Osteen narrowly escaped this fate due to his minor status.


    The fact that he was only a week away from adulthood stirred intense public debate, withwyers and the public vigorously discussing juvenile crime.


    No one could have imagined that eight yearster, a month after Ervin Osteen was released from prison, he would again kidnap Daisy Ginger.


    Upon confirming the kidnapper¡¯s identity, the police ssified the case as a "malicious revenge incident"¡ªErvin Osteen kidnapped Daisy Ginger for revenge.


    Some people are born evil, and they can never be rehabilitated.

 Chapter 163 Daisy Ginger, has been missing for an entire night

    <h4>Chapter 163: Chapter 163 Daisy Ginger, has been missing for an entire night</h4>


    Lady Stephens cried for half an hour, cried herself tired, cried herself hoarse, and sat listlessly on the office sofa, her face haggard as if she had suddenly aged a lot.


    She kept her head down, her disheveled long hair hanging down, and teardrops kept rolling off her chin.


    The winter night was exceptionally cold, the air conditioning at the police station couldn¡¯t get warm, and after sitting for a while, her legs and feet were numb. Edward Stephens fetched a cup of hot water from the water dispenser and handed it to his mother.


    "Drink this cup of water and go home with the driver," Edward told her. "If you stay any longer, you¡¯ll catch a cold."


    Lady Stephens slowly raised her head; her eyes were swollen, red like two walnuts. She asked him hoarsely, "And what about you?"


    Edward stood in front of her, his face expressionless in the twilight, as pale as snow, appearing calm yet cold under the light. Edward lit a cigarette, using the nicotine to calm himself: "Waiting for news."


    Arge tear dropped from Lady Stephens¡¯ eye. Her hands and feet were already so numb from the cold that she couldn¡¯t even absorb the warmth from the cup Edward had given her.


    That Ervin Osteen, he¡¯d been a desperate character since childhood. Now he was out for revenge. Even if Daisy Ginger can be found, will she still be whole?


    Could it be, that already...


    Lady Stephens¡¯ tears fell into the ss, her shoulders shaking uncontrobly, weeping hoarsely with her head down: "How could Daisy get involved in such a thing..."


    Edward feared she would make herself ill with crying and called the Stephens family¡¯s butler, asking him to bring a coat and hand warmers to take her home.


    He feared he didn¡¯t have the energy to care for a sick woman right now.


    *


    Forty-five minutester, Lady Stephens was ushered into the car.


    Edward stood at the police station entrance, watching his mother safely get into the car before slowly turning back and sitting on the sofa again.


    He lit a cigarette, recalling the expression on Lady Stephens¡¯ face as she hesitated to speak while holding his hand before leaving, and slowly lowered his gaze.


    ...


    "Edward," he suddenly heard Daisy Ginger calling his name.


    He looked up to see Daisy Ginger had already put on her dress and makeup. She ran to him, grabbed his hand, and pouted slightly,ining, "I asked if I looked good or not, how could you fall asleep?"


    Seeing her safe and sound, Edward let out a slight sigh of relief, stood up from the sofa, and grabbed her hand back, "You look great."


    "Why do you look so strange?" Daisy stood on tiptoe, scrutinizing his face, suddenly kissed him on the lips, and asked, "What¡¯s wrong with you?"


    "I had a nightmare." Edward wrapped her slender waist, his palm feeling thece patterns of her dress. Suddenly, he thought of something and asked, "What were you going to doter?"


    "Attend Chloe¡¯s wedding ceremony at 6:30." Daisy smiled at him, tilting her head, "Do you want to go?"


    The familiar conversation made him instantly realize something. He grabbed her arm firmly andmanded in a low voice, "You mustn¡¯t go!"


    The soft body in his arms suddenly went limp, and instinctively he held her close as Daisy shattered before him, bleeding from all orifices into a mass of broken pieces.


    The palm of his hand was icy, soaked with her dark red, already coagted blood.


    ...


    Edward suddenly awoke from the nightmare, his heart pounding like thunder. He sat on the sofa for a long time before slowlying to his senses.


    Cold water dripping from the old air conditioner hadnded on his palm, his right hand had be so cold it had lost all feeling.


    Outside, dawn was just beginning to break. Edward closed his eyes briefly, the remnants of the nightmare still lingering. He took a slow breath of the cold chill in the air.


    Daisy Ginger had been missing all night.


    *


    Requesting rmendation votes~

 Chapter 164 Threat

    <h4>Chapter 164: Chapter 164 Threat</h4>


    A flurry of hurried footsteps came from outside the door, and someone pushed it open, calling out to him, "Young Master Stevens."


    Edward Stephens opened his eyes and saw a middle-aged man in uniform standing at the door. He rose from the sofa and shook hands with him.


    The visitor was the Deputy Chief of Banyan City Police. The Ginger Group, as Banyan City¡¯s top taxpayer, generates billions in revenue for the city each year. Earlier this year, Banyan City¡¯s government even rewarded it with 150 million to recognize its contribution.


    Government insiders had already received word that Daisy Ginger had been kidnapped by Ervin Osteen. The Deputy Chief, who was on a business trip outside the city, had rushed back overnight, still travel-worn.


    "We will do our utmost to rescue Miss Ginger," the Deputy Chief assured Edward Stephens, "No matter what, we will give you an exnation."


    Edward Stephens nodded slightly, his demeanor indifferent, "Thank you."


    The Deputy Chief looked at this handsome young man and, even in the dim lighting of the room, could see the pallor on his face. He kindly reached out to pat Edward Stephens on the back of the hand and said softly, "Back then... the case involving you was handled by me. You did a great job then. This time, leave it to us professionals."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ gaze tightened as he looked up at the Deputy Chief, who wore an encouraging smile and patted him on the shoulder, "Seeing you stand safely in front of me again, honestly, it eases my heart a lot."


    Back then, Edward Stephens¡¯ call was answered by him personally. At that time, he was a rookie, and his repeated calms couldn¡¯t stop Edward from risking himself. When he found Edward at the crime scene, the brave young man had already been stabbed several times, lying in a pool of blood.


    So many years have passed, but this has always been his deep regret, always feeling that if he had found the crime scene sooner, Edward Stephens might not have been hurt so severely.


    Now, the past events are repeating; he received the alert and immediately requested to take charge of this case.


    He hoped that this time, there wouldn¡¯t be any regrets likest time.


    Edward Stephens nodded slightly: "Thank you."


    The Deputy Chief smiled at him before turning and hurrying away.


    Edward Stephens sat back down on the sofa, lighting a cigarette slowly in the clear morning sunlight.


    He weighed the options for a moment, taking the time it takes to smoke a cigarette, and finally took out his phone to call Ryan Smith.


    It was evening in the United States, and Ryan answered the call quickly, his voice unchanged, full of mischief, guessing, "Dear, have you been kicked out of the house again by your wife?"


    Edward Stephens took a drag of his cigarette and said, "Ryan, you need to get some people over here."


    Ryan asked, puzzled, "What kind of people?"


    "Daisy Ginger has been kidnapped," Edward Stephens briefly exined the situation, "I need to find her as soon as possible. I don¡¯t have much manpower in Banyan City, so you need to send some over."


    Ryan was silent for a while before he asked, "Edward, have you thought this through? This is no joke."


    Edward Stephens flicked the cigarette ash off, watching it fall onto the hem of his ck coat. Ryan¡¯s words made him chuckle a little: "I¡¯ve spent the whole night contemting, and there¡¯s no decision more thoroughly considered than this."


    Ryan remained silent.


    After a while, he said, "I refuse."


    "You can refuse," Edward Stephens said, "as long as you can withstand my retaliation."


    His tone was calm, yet it was the most serious threat there could be.

 Chapter 165 Fool

    <h4>Chapter 165: Chapter 165 Fool</h4>


    Ryan was taken aback, seemingly very angry, and remained silent on the other end.


    After a while, he mmed the table and said angrily, "Jerk! You¡¯re just taking advantage because I like you. See how you¡¯ll threaten me when I stop caring about you!"


    Edward, speechless for a moment: "......"


    Ryan had a strong desire to perform, but Edward doused him with cold water mercilessly, "If you don¡¯t act faster, I¡¯ll find someone else to care for you."


    "...Fine, you win," Ryan said. "I¡¯ve found the person for you, but if your brother..."


    Edward interrupted him, "Find the person first, then we¡¯ll talk."


    Ryan let out a long sigh on the other end, seemingly ruffling his own orange short hair, and muttered to himself, "...Really can¡¯t find another fool like you anywhere..."


    Edward simply hung up the phone.


    Ryan acted quickly, and within ten minutes, a stranger¡¯s number was contacting him via text.


    He replied a few times, then deleted the texts, leaned back against the sofa, closed his eyes, and slowly exhaled.


    Daisy, with the situation as it is, if you dare betray me in the future, I won¡¯t let you off.


    *


    There¡¯s no secret that stays hidden forever.


    The news of Daisy being kidnapped again by Ervin Osteen quickly leaked out. Although not many people outside knew, almost everyone inside did.


    Ethan went to the police station, and the first thing he did was grab Edward¡¯s cor and punch him hard in the face.


    Edward took the punch without retaliating.


    His lip immediately split, bruised, and he looked up at the young man in front of him, seething with anger, and said, "Instead of venting your anger on me here, you might as well send people to find her now."


    "I ask you¡ªwhy did you let her go out alone?!!" Ethan shouted, questioning Edward, "How could you let her go out alone in the middle of the night!"


    Edward licked his cracked lip, finding it somewhat amusing, "She¡¯s an adult. Do I have to follow her everywhere she goes?"


    Ethan¡¯s gaze turned cold, about to punch again, but Zoe Hilker intervened, crying, "Ethan, stop hitting him! It¡¯s not Edward¡¯s fault; surely you understand that?"


    Ethan clenched his lips, a sh of suppressed anger crossing his masculine features, and finally released Edward¡¯s cor.


    Zoe Hilker was right; it wasn¡¯t Edward¡¯s fault. Daisy wasn¡¯t alone when she went out, and even if nothing had happened that night, given Ervin Osteen¡¯s hatred and desire for revenge against Daisy, he would have eventually targeted her anyway.


    He was misdirecting his anger.


    But seeing Edward sitting there unharmed, he couldn¡¯t maintain hisposure.


    Zoe Hilker handed a tissue to Edward, looking at the few drops of blood on the floor, and softly apologized, "Ethan was just too anxious; he didn¡¯t mean to hit you. We all know the situation is quite dangerous this time. Ethan has already arranged for his people to cooperate with the police to find her... And you," Zoe looked up at him, speaking gently, "Don¡¯t worry either. A misfortunests for a thousand years; Daisy will be fine."


    A misfortunests for a thousand years...


    Edward took the tissue and pressed it against his bleeding lip, giving Zoe Hilker a gentle smile, "Truly deserving of being her friend, you have your own logic forforting people."


    Seeing his smile, Zoe Hilker¡¯s cheeks turned slightly red for some reason, and she cleared her throat softly, "Edward, you¡¯re our friend too."

 Chapter 166: Ruthless, Indifferent, and Heartless.

    <h4>Chapter 166: Chapter 166: Ruthless, Indifferent, and Heartless.</h4>


    Edward Stephens heard this and just gave a nomittal smile, but Ethan Pond couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. He reached out and pulled Zoe Hilker over, speaking harshly: "Why are you talking nonsense with this lousy brain, stop dawdling here. Without news of Daisy, don¡¯t waste time here."


    Zoe Hilker stumbled when he pulled her, and when they reached the door, she whispered, "Why are you getting upset with him? Didn¡¯t you see how pale he looked?"


    Ethan Pond licked his lip ring and sneered, "I just want to beat him up."


    Zoe Hilker was at a loss for words, "If Daisy finds out, she¡¯ll definitely scold you to death."


    Daring to beat up Edward Stephens behind her back, and even making him bleed, Daisy Ginger would be heartbroken.


    Ethan Pond pursed his lips, "She¡¯s not found yet, what would she know."


    Hearing this, Zoe Hilker¡¯s beautiful eyes dimmed. There was a trace of worry in her eyes, but she still tried to cheer Ethan up, "Daisy has been through so many storms over the years, she won¡¯t fall because of this. Last time we were young and powerless, but now it¡¯s different; with so many people searching, even if Ervin Osteen hides underground, we can dig him out."


    Despite these words, everyone knew it was different fromst time.


    Last time, Ervin Osteen and the others kidnapped Daisy Ginger for money; but this time... he hadn¡¯t even made a phone call.


    Every minute that passed decreased Daisy¡¯s survival rate by a minute.


    One can only hope Ervin Osteen isn¡¯t so crazy as to kill Daisy immediately after capturing her.


    Though there¡¯s no news about Daisy now, sometimes, no news is actually good news, at least Daisy might still be alive...


    *


    Ian Linton and Chloe Brooke received the news, and rushed over early in the morning.


    The young couple were devastated upon learning that Daisy went missing after attending their wedding. Chloe Brooke was even more directly crushed and cried out loud. She hadn¡¯t even washed her face, ran to the police station with her hair down to inquire about the news, and when she found out that the kidnapper was that same Ervin Osteen from back then, she cried out in fear, held tightly by the distressed Ian Linton.


    Edward Stephens was nning to go back, various teams had already been dispatched, and Banyan City was under a carpet search. With such manpower and resources, he estimated it wouldn¡¯t take three days to catch Ervin Osteen.


    "Mr. Stephens," Ian Linton called out as Edward Stephens was about to leave. This young gentleman, though slightly red-eyed at the moment, maintained a humble attitude as he inquired Edward Stephens, "Do you have any news of Director Ginger?"


    Edward Stephens stopped, looked at him, "No."


    "Are you nning to go home?" Ian Linton seemed a bit surprised, "Without any news on Director Ginger, are you just going back like this?"


    Edward Stephens turned around, facing Ian Linton. His face remained calm and unaffected. Apart from a hint that his skin seemed slightly bloodless-translucent, he looked nothing like someone shattered by their partner¡¯s ident.


    Calm and detached.


    As if Daisy Ginger¡¯s disappearance didn¡¯t really matter to him.


    Looking at him, Edward Stephens lit a cigarette, seemed to smile slightly, and askedzily, "What are you talking about?"


    Ian Linton shook his head, realizing his words might have been overstepping, he apologized gently to Edward Stephens: "My words might have caused some misunderstanding. I meant, without news of Director Ginger, going home might mean you can¡¯t get news of her as soon as possible."


    Edward Stephens exhaled smoke, looked at Ian Linton indifferently, as though he didn¡¯t take him seriously, not even acknowledging his apology. He said, "My affairs are none of your business."


    After that, he didn¡¯t bother with Ian Linton¡¯s momentary stunned expression, turned around and left with a cigarette wedged in his fingers.


    It rained all night, and even though the sun was out now, the air was still humid and cloaked with a misty fog.


    The man¡¯s ck trench coat gradually faded into the light mist until he disappeared from view.


    Ian Linton stared at Edward Stephens¡¯ retreating figure, unblinkingly.


    Daisy Ginger, is this the man you chose?


    Indifferent, apathetic, heartless.


    If you knew that after your disappearance, he wouldn¡¯t even stay at the police station to await news, would you still be as unwavering in yourmitment?


    Chloe Brooke was dressed thinly, without even a jacket when she came out, standing in the cold wind, shivering.


    Seeing Ian Linton¡¯s dark expression staring at Edward Stephens¡¯ back, she was a little puzzled and walked over to grab his fingers with her icy hand, finding his fingertips trembling slightly.


    Chloe Brooke asked in confusion, "Honey, what did you say to Mr. Stephens?"


    Could it have angered someone as gentle as him?


    Ian Linton withdrew his gaze, said in a low voice, "He just left like that."


    Was it strange for Edward Stephens to leave?


    Though Chloe Brooke found Ian Linton¡¯s reaction a bit inexplicable, she still consoled him, "Mr. Stephens has been here all night too, it¡¯s only right for him to go home and rest."


    Ian Linton lowered his eyes to look at her, his brow furrowing, and retorted, "With such a major incident happening to Daisy, as her husband, shouldn¡¯t he be sleepless and tireless for her?"


    Chloe Brooke paused for a moment, couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Honey, that¡¯s too strange. People can¡¯t stay awake, not eat, not sleep. Mr. Stephens has been up for more than twenty-four hours now. If he stays any longer, maybe Daisy won¡¯t be found, but he¡¯ll copse first."


    Ian Linton kept his eyes down, his longshes hiding the color of his eyes, Chloe Brooke couldn¡¯t see his expression, but could tell from the tightly knitted brows that he seemed still troubled by Edward Stephens leaving.


    Chloe Brooke tugged at his hand, softly said, "Honey, let¡¯s go home first, okay? It¡¯s so cold here."


    Upon hearing this, Ian Linton jerked his hand away, and stared at her sharply.


    "Honey...?" Chloe Brooke was taken aback by his reaction, her frozen pale face showed a hint of helplessness, not understanding how her words ignited his anger.


    "If you want to go back, go by yourself," Ian Linton said coldly, "I thought you and Director Ginger were so happy chatting usually, but apparently not. Chloe, you¡¯re no different from Edward Stephens."


    Chloe Brooke was bewildered, not able to understand what Ian Linton meant, but frightened by his cold tone to the point of tears.


    She walked over with a pale face to hold Ian Linton¡¯s hand, cautiously said, "Honey, if you don¡¯t want to leave, then we¡¯ll stay and wait for Sister Ginger¡¯s news..."


    Ian Linton¡¯s expression finally softened a little, he lowered his eyes to look at Chloe Brooke, said, "Chloe, loving someone means being willing to go through fire and water, facing any challenge for them. Do you understand?"


    *


    Asking for rmendation votes~

 Chapter 167: ... Dead

    <h4>Chapter 167: Chapter 167: ... Dead</h4>


    Chloe Brooke naturally didn¡¯t understand, but seeing his expression finally resembled his usual self, she quickly nodded, "Darling, I know, liking someone means treating them well..."


    Ian Linton¡¯s expression slightly eased, he raised his hand, gently touched Chloe Brooke¡¯s messy long hair, and said warmly, "Chloe, if anything happens to you in the future, I would go through fire and water for you... do you know that?"


    Originally, Chloe Brooke was a bit afraid of him, but now hearing him say this, she immediately blossomed with joy, her cheeks slightly red, she said coyly, "Darling, if something really happens to me in the future, I don¡¯t need you to do anything for me, I just want you to be well."


    "Chloe..." Ian Linton¡¯s expression seemed slightly moved, he reached out and gently pulled his newlywed wife into his arms, speaking softly, "I¡¯m so happy that you think of me this way."


    Chloe Brooke buried her face in Ian Linton¡¯s embrace, feeling the warmth from his body gradually spreading, permeating her frozen temperature, she was momentarily intoxicated in her husband¡¯s embrace, until Ian Linton let her go.


    Ian Linton said, "Chloe, you better go home first."


    Chloe Brooke raised her head, hearing this, was slightly stunned, and asked with some confusion, "Darling... did I do something wrong?"


    "It¡¯s too cold here, go home and change your clothes." Ian Linton smiled at her gently, "It¡¯s my fault, we went out in a hurry and I forgot to bring your coat."


    Chloe Brooke was indeed freezing, but having just been intimidated by Ian Linton, she hesitated a bit about leaving now, and cautiously asked, "Darling... if I leave just like this, will you me me?"


    Ian Linton smiled, "What are you thinking? If you get sick from the cold, I would be the one upset. It was my fault earlier, I shouldn¡¯t have med you like that."


    Chloe Brooke looked at him, realizing he had once more be the gentle, considerate, and refined Ian Linton, she breathed a sigh of relief, and the inexplicable fear she felt towards him dissipated. She tiptoed to kiss Ian Linton on the cheek and said to him, "Darling, then I¡¯ll leave first."


    She paused a bit, hesitated again, and looking at Ian Linton¡¯s face, still didn¡¯t dare to ask, "Where will you goter?"


    There always seemed to be something different about Ian Linton today.


    She shook her head, suppressing these vague thoughts, hugged her thin clothes, and got into the car amidst the cold wind.


    Sitting in the car, she turned her head to look at her husband standing at the police station entrance, he seemed to be looking forward, but for some reason, she always felt that he wasn¡¯t truly seeing her.


    A girl¡¯s mind is always strange and sensitive, sitting alone in the car, Chloe Brooke reflected on her husband¡¯s recent attitude towards her, feeling somewhat aggrieved and sad.


    She was worried about Daisy Ginger, but it was so cold here, she only wore a thin shirt, wouldn¡¯t he feel heartache if she caught a cold...?


    *


    Edward Stephens went back, ate a little, and theny down to sleep.


    The room was full of things left by Daisy Ginger, and the fragrance she hadn¡¯t dispelled lingered faintly in the air. He fell asleep but slept uneasily, in a haze, always feeling Daisy Ginger was beside him, the sound of footstepsing and going at the door, thinking she hade back.


    When he woke up, it was already midday, his head splitting with pain.


    He lit a cigarette, sat by the bedside, nced at his phone, there was no news.


    Someone knocked at the door outside, it was the household servant: "Mr. Stephens?"


    Edward Stephens: "What is it?"


    "Lunch is ready," said the servant at the door, "Will Miss Gingere back for lunch today?"


    Edward Stephens felt a tightness in his chest, surged with a few inexplicable irritations. Although the news was concealed from top to bottom, it was clear the higher-ups already knew, but the lower-level people didn¡¯t. The Gingers¡¯ building could operate for a few more months without Daisy Ginger, but once shareholders learned that the Ginger¡¯s CEO was in trouble and began to sell stocks, the entire Ginger family business might go bankrupt.


    This would also be a major blow to the Banyan City government.


    This world is just so ridiculous and cruel. Some trash can destroy one family, the future of dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of people.


    Edward Stephens opened the door, went downstairs.


    Lunch was prepared in a duo portion, Daisy Ginger¡¯s ce settingsid across from him. Edward Stephens sat in the chair, looked at the empty bowl and te, sat in silence for a moment, put down his chopsticks, and suddenly had no appetite.


    "Mr. Stephens, is the lunch not to your liking?"


    The servant was startled seeing him stood up from the dining chair and hurried over to ask.


    "I¡¯ll wait for her toe back and eat together." Edward Stephens said lightly.


    "Will Miss Ginger be back for lunch?" the servant asked.


    "Perhaps."


    Edward Stephens spoke in a mild tone, put on his coat, and had already stepped out the door.


    *


    By evening, there was finally a breakthrough in the case.


    The police had called up surveince from a rural area, showing Ervin Osteen appeared at a small shop wearing a baseball cap, bought arge quantity of water and food, and took them to his car.


    Because the rural surveince wasn¡¯t as dense as in the city, by the time the police rushed to the scene after receiving the information, Ervin Osteen was already gone.


    However, the search area was narrowed.


    After some discussion among the case experts, they identified a possible destination for Ervin Osteen¡ª


    An abandoned motorcycle junkyard.


    The junkyard was east of the rural area in a dense forest, abandoned for nearly eight years. It was also where Ervin Osteen hid when he kidnapped Daisy Ginger back then!


    No one could imagine that eight yearster, Ervin Osteen would repeat his trick and kidnap Daisy Ginger back to the crime scene of eight years ago.


    The police immediately gathered a team to head to the motorcycle junkyard, and approached the rusty, overgrown factory outskirts near six o¡¯clock.


    Back then, the motorcycle factory almost brought the entire vige¡¯s economy to life. After the kidnapping case, the factory owner went bankrupt overnight and ended upmitting suicide by jumping off a building.


    It could be said, Ervin Osteen and his group didn¡¯t just cause the death of some people they murdered. Many more innocents were implicated by their rampage.


    And this time, with conclusive evidence, even if death penalty couldn¡¯t be sentenced, he could be imprisoned for life¡ª


    Ervin Osteen¡¯s ck car with no license tes was parked right at the motorcycle factory entrance, giving everyone some certainty. To avoid startling the suspect, several armed special forces soldiers, under themand of the officers, quietly climbed through the windows under the cover of darkness.


    Just when everyone thought they might rescue the hostage this time, a voice suddenly came through the radio.


    "Report." The voice, mixed with static, sounded somewhat distorted, "The hostage has not been found. Ervin Osteen... is already dead."

 Chapter 168 Fear of Crime and Suicide

    <h4>Chapter 168: Chapter 168 Fear of Crime and Suicide</h4>


    A group of people hesitated outside the door, then quickly rushed into the motorcycle factory.


    Three or four armed special forces soldiers stood aside, and Ervin Osteen, who had kidnapped Daisy Ginger,y on the ground, foaming at the mouth, face turned blue, clearly dead.


    Beside him was a stic bag filled with food bought from a small shop, and a nkety on the ground, suggesting he intended to spend the night here.


    The dpidated motorcycle factory was overgrown with wild grass, and the cold winds of winter blew in from all directions, chilling fingertips and toes.


    No one expected that an entire day¡¯s deployment would lead to this oue.


    How could Ervin Osteen have died? Why did he die? Was it suicide, or...?


    The scene was silent for a moment, when suddenly, an expert shouted, "Quick, find the hostage! The hostage might be nearby!"


    This shout broke the eerie tranquility of the wilderness, awakening everyone, who then hurriedly began searching.


    "Call the forensic team over!"


    "Have you found anyone?"


    "Don¡¯t disturb the crime scene!"


    ...


    After a methodical investigation, it wasrgely determined¡ªErvin Osteen had died of poisoning.


    Inside his stomach were significant remnants of food and water, and in the bottle of water, there was a lethal amount of arsenic.


    No other fingerprints were found on the bottle, suggesting Ervin had brought it himself, meaning he likelymitted suicide by poison.


    Ervin Osteenmitted suicide, so what about Daisy Ginger whom he kidnapped?


    Where is she now?


    Is she...


    still alive?


    ...


    For a moment, a cloud of gloom enveloped all the investigators.


    Years of investigative experience told them that the chances of Daisy Ginger¡¯s survival were slim.


    Killing Daisy Ginger, thenmitting suicide, was the most likely conclusion to draw.


    However, aside from finding Daisy¡¯s hair samples and fingerprints in the car, no trace of her was discovered in the factory.


    Where did Ervin hide Daisy Ginger?


    ...


    A night of searching yielded nothing; the deputy director called Edward Stephens on the way back.


    Edward Stephens seemed not to have slept either and quickly answered the phone.


    The young man¡¯s deep voice came through, slightly hoarse: "Hello?"


    "It¡¯s me." The deputy director began, informing Edward Stephens about what had happened that night, but he didn¡¯t mention the spection about Daisy Ginger¡¯s life or death, simply stating, "We will do everything to find Miss Ginger."


    On the other end of the line, Edward Stephens seemed to remain silent for a long time, before saying: "I understand."


    The deputy director sighed gently, hung up with a heavy heart.


    Eight years ago, they were a step toote, rescuing Daisy Ginger after Edward Stephens sustained multiple stab wounds; eight yearster, they seemed to bete once again...


    *


    The autopsy report for Ervin Osteen was ready that night.


    By the time they reached the scene, he had been dead for no more than an hour; in his clothes pocket was found the packaging for arsenic; inside his car, there were dried traces of blood and fingerprints belonging to Daisy Ginger, and the unlicensed vehicle at the entrance matched the one spotted on surveince footage.


    All signs indicated that Ervin Osteen hadmitted suicide after dealing with Daisy Ginger out of guilt.


    But what troubled them was the absence of any trace of Daisy Ginger. Whether it was a body or a murder weapon, none were found in Ervin¡¯s car.


    In the end, they had to turn their gaze towards the expansive forest¡ªthe most likely scenario being that after capturing Daisy Ginger, Ervin buried her alive.

 Chapter 169: "So ruthless, do you really want to kill me?

    <h4>Chapter 169: Chapter 169: "So ruthless, do you really want to kill me?</h4>


    It¡¯s night.


    Ian Linton had dinner with Chloe Brooke and drove her back to her parent¡¯s home.


    Chloe Brooke reluctantly stood at the doorstep, wrapped her arms around Ian Linton¡¯s neck, and kissed him a few times on the lips before saying, "Darling, don¡¯t work toote."


    Ian Linton gently stroked her hair, his brown eyes looking very affectionate.


    He said warmly, "You should rest early. I¡¯ll text you when I¡¯m done with overtime."


    Chloe Brooke obediently nodded. It wasn¡¯t until Ian Linton got in the car and the car faded from her sight that she somewhat reluctantly withdrew her gaze from the distance.


    After they got married, Ian Linton¡¯s routine didn¡¯t change. He still often worked overtime. Afraid she would feel lonely at home, he would have dinner with her, take her back home, and then return to the office to work overtime.


    A gentle and considerate husband, which should be a good thing. But ever since they got married, they haven¡¯t had many intimate moments. Ian Linton said that as the end of the year approached, thepany was busy, and she couldn¡¯t force him to stay home with her at night.


    In short, it still felt a bit lonely.


    Instead, her family praised Ian Linton¡¯s work attitude. To them, a man being focused on his career seemed good enough. Her feeling wronged due to theck of hispany seemed unreasonable.


    Instead, she felt that during their courtship, they spent more time alone together...


    Chloe Brooke sighed lightly with some loneliness, turned around, pushed the door open, and walked inside.


    *


    Ian Linton slowly parked the car in front of thepany.


    He took the takeout box he had just bought out of the car, opened the ess control, and leisurely walked into thepany.


    He entered the elevator, went up to his office, turned on the lights, took off his suit jacket, and then, holding the takeout box, walked to the door of the lounge in his office and used his fingerprint to unlock it.


    Inside, a faintly metallic medicinal smell wafted out. Ian Linton did not turn on the lights immediately but walked to the bedside and softly said to the small bulge in the quilt, "Director Ginger, time to eat."


    The lump did not respond to him, and Ian Linton didn¡¯t seem to mind. He put down the meal box, turned around, and raised his hand toward the light switch behind him.


    At the moment he turned around, a slender figure darted out from the corner and pounced on his back, fiercely stabbing a sharp object into Ian Linton¡¯s unsuspecting neck artery¡ª


    "Click."


    The light turned on.


    The figure paused in midair, her wrist caught in the man¡¯s palm, and the sharp object that was about to pierce his artery could no longer move an inch.


    After a few seconds of stalemate, the figure copsed to the ground as if using up all her strength, breathing rapidly with a pale face.


    "Director Ginger," Ian Linton smiled as he crouched down, forcibly took the disposable chopsticks from Daisy Ginger¡¯s hand, "you really never fail to keep me worried. When did you hide it? I remember tidying up your tableware properly."


    He fiddled with the sharply carved wooden chopsticks in his hand, his tone sounding a bit helpless, then broke the pair of chopsticks in front of Daisy Ginger and threw them into the trash bin.


    "So ruthless, you really wanted to kill me?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s face,cking any color, showed a trace of extreme disgust. Shey weakly on the ground as if she didn¡¯t want to look at him or talk to him, closed her eyes, and turned her head away.

 Chapter 170: "Don’t touch me—you make me feel sick.

    <h4>Chapter 170: Chapter 170: "Don¡¯t touch me¡ªyou make me feel sick.</h4>


    Ian Linton seemed indifferent to her disregard, he looked at her, chuckled softly, and reached out to carry her horizontally from the ground.


    On the day of the car ident, Daisy Ginger¡¯s right calf suffered a severe fracture. She was badly injured, and after being confined here by Ian Linton, her weight noticeably dropped. When Ian picked her up, she still opened her eyes and reached out to push him away.


    But the umted strength she had just used had already drained all her remaining energy. When Ian ced her on the bed, she couldn¡¯t pull herself out of his arms.


    "I bought the food you like." Ian turned around and took the packed boxes he bought from the hotel. Three dishes and a soup, all with a rich aroma, each carefully chosen by Ian.


    He ced the food on the small table by the bed, then separated the disposable chopsticks and ced them beside her, looking at her warmly, "You¡¯ve been hungry all day, right? If you don¡¯t eat, your wounds won¡¯t heal."


    Daisy leaned weakly against the headboard, gasping for breath, her hair disheveled, her small face pale to transparency beneath the messy hair, just looking at Ian without speaking.


    "Do you want me to feed you?"


    Daisy spoke hoarsely, "Get lost."


    Ian sat across from her, the gentle and handsome smile unchanged on his refined face. He lit a cigarette and looked at Daisy, speaking warmly, "Director Ginger, I¡¯m doing this for your own good."


    Daisy let out a low scoff and closed her eyes, seeming to have lost interest in conversing with him.


    Sitting on the sofa, Ian quietly watched her for a while, then let out a faint sigh. He stood up, walked to the bed, raised his hand, and ced his palm on Daisy¡¯s cheek.


    Daisy¡¯s eyes shed open in an instant. Even in her current extremely weak state, her eyes were cold and piercingly intense, and Ian felt as if her gaze gripped his heart, a strong jolt of electricity running from his fingertips to his heart.


    ¡ª It was a splendor that no counterfeit could ever bring him.


    "Director Ginger..." His tone bordered on infatuation, whispering, "You have no idea how much I love you..."


    Daisy raised her hand, forcefully gripping Ian¡¯s wrist and slowly removing his hand from her face.


    Her voice was hoarse as she spoke each word deliberately, "Don¡¯t touch me¡ª you make me sick."


    "Director Ginger." Ian lowered his eyes, a faint smile on his lips, looking somewhat innocently amiable, "I¡¯m doing this for your own good."


    Daisy took a deep breath and then said slowly, "Get¡ªout¡ª"


    "I can stay here with you all night." Ian stood in front of her, watching her, "Once the authorities rx the restriction on the route, I¡¯ll take you abroad. I want to find a ce where no one knows you..." he murmured, "Just the two of us."


    Daisy chuckled angrily, looking up at him, "Ian Linton, are you out of your mind?"


    Ian looked at her, his lips curved into a faint, gentle smile.


    Seeing him put on such a pretense made Daisy want to curse, but every time she argued with Ian, it felt like punching a pillow, aplishing nothing but her own frustration.


    Ian: "I just don¡¯t want to see you continue getting hurt."


    "..."


    "The Edward Stephens you love isn¡¯t the same as he used to be... Director Ginger, I don¡¯t want to see youpromising yourself. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to forget him?"


    He spoke with deep affection, sincerely and earnestly, yet all Daisy wanted to do was roll her eyes.

 Chapter 171: Crazy Feelings

    <h4>Chapter 171: Chapter 171: Crazy Feelings</h4>


    Ian Linton looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s indifferent expression and gradually stopped talking. He gazed at her obsessively for a moment, then walked over, sat on the sofa, and said gently, "Director Ginger, you should eat. I¡¯ll stop talking."


    Daisy Ginger sat on the bed without moving.


    Ian Linton looked at her, sighed softly, and walked to the door, saying gently, "I¡¯ll be in the office. If you need anything, just ring the bell, and I¡¯lle in."


    Daisy Ginger ignored him.


    Ian Linton gave her onest deep look, as if trying to remember her face, then opened the door and slowly walked out.


    Once Ian Linton left, Daisy Ginger slowly sat up from the bed.


    She was exhausted. Although Ian had roughly set her fractured right leg, it hadn¡¯t received proper medical treatment, so the bone hadn¡¯t healed. The recent exertion seemed to have disced the bone again, causing a pain that felt as if her muscles and bones were being pulled and twisted. It was unbearable.


    She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, enduring the waves of relentless pain, then picked up the chopsticks and began to eat dinner.


    After the incident with Ian Linton, the food had grown cold, and it didn¡¯t taste good.


    She frowned, eating slowly; she ate a little until the pain became too much to bear, then put down the chopsticks and copsed back onto the bed, breathing faintly.


    She had no idea how many days she had been confined in this room by Ian Linton.


    Without windows, she couldn¡¯t keep track of time, only vaguely recalling the day of the ident when she lost consciousness, and upon waking again, found herself in Ian Linton¡¯s hands.


    At first, she didn¡¯t even realize what was happening and thanked Ian, until she noticed his smirking gaze, and her mind, still fogged from the collision, finally grasped the situation¡ª


    She had been kidnapped by Ian Linton.


    It was even possible that the car ident had been orchestrated by Ian.


    This possibility was so bizarre as to be unbelievable, but it wasn¡¯t until Ian confessed his deep affection that she understood how twisted the emotions of the man in front of her had be.


    Perhaps "twisted" wasn¡¯t even the right word anymore; it was madness.


    Daisy Ginger frowned and closed her eyes in frustration.


    She had never encountered anything so beyond reason, especially since Ian Linton was already married to Chloe Brooke.


    She didn¡¯t know how long had passed when the tightly closed door was gently opened.


    The man walked in slowly. Upon seeing the barely touched food on the table, he sighed softly. He walked to the bed, lowered his head, and looked at the woman lying there.


    She seemed to be asleep, her breathing steady, but her delicate brow was furrowed, likely due to her unhealed leg injury, leaving herplexion pale.


    She had endured so much over the past few days.


    Ian Linton thought, unable to suppress the pity in his heart, as he leaned down, trying to kiss her bloodless, chapped lips.


    Just as his lips were about to touch hers, Daisy Ginger¡¯s eyes snapped open. Her arm hooked around his neck, and a hand emerged from under the nket, thrusting something sharp toward his neck¡ª


    She had a chopstick?!


    This thought shed through his mind like a bolt of lightning, not evensting half a second, before Ian Linton tore away the arms entwined around him. The sharp object in Daisy¡¯s hand grazed his cheek, leaving a deep sh across his pale face.


    The blood droplets almost seemed to stter out, sprinkling diagonally onto the bedding, leaving a vivid red stain.


    For a moment, the only sound in the air was the two of them gasping for breath.

 Chapter 172: In this world, no one will ever love you more than I do.

    <h4>Chapter 172: Chapter 172: In this world, no one will ever love you more than I do.</h4>


    The air was filled with nothing but the sound of two people breathing heavily for a moment.


    Ian Linton staggered several steps back before finally steadying himself. He raised a hand to wipe away the blood constantly dripping down his face and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle softly. Looking at Daisy Ginger, sprawled on the bed and gasping violently, her face pale, he softly called out, "Director Ginger... I really can¡¯t afford to underestimate you; you always manage to surprise me."


    Daisy¡¯s mind was nk. After being flung by Ian, her broken bone was injured again, and all that registered in her brain was the word "pain."


    The pain was so intense that she couldn¡¯t even hear what Ian was saying. It felt as though the world was separated from her by a vacuum barrier.


    She felt Ian approach and pour some bitter liquid into her mouth. After about ten minutes, the pain gradually lessened, and she realized it was a painkiller.


    The man positioned her upright at the head of the bed and squatted down to remove the cast from her shin bone.


    Daisy nced at herpletely deformed calf and turned her eyes away as if she couldn¡¯t bear it any longer.


    If she could make it out alive, she would kill him, definitely kill him with her own hands! ¡ª She thought nearly through gritted teeth, and in the next second, when the man forcefully set her leg bone back in ce, she passed out on the bed from the pain.


    She didn¡¯t know how much time had passed, maybe a few minutes or maybe a few hours, but when Daisy slowly awoke from the severe pain, she opened her eyes to the sight of dim yellow light.


    The pain had vanished, and she felt weak, like someone waking from a nightmare, carrying an unreal sense of fatigue.


    Until Ian Linton¡¯s face appeared in front of her. He looked down at her, shadows cast over his fair profile, his eyes deep with dark luster, making him seem like a man she had never known.


    "Once the vignce rxes a bit, I¡¯ll take you out of the city to find a doctor to treat you," Ian Linton leaned down, speaking softly to her, gently brushing aside a stray hair on her forehead, his tone almost tender, "Seeing you like this, I feel terrible too... How could I bear to hurt you; in this world, no one will love you more than I do..."


    Daisy closed her eyes and let out a soft scoff, "No wonder Emily Ginger said you¡¯re disgusting; Ian Linton, you really are unbearably disgusting."


    Ian replied indifferently, "She¡¯s just a foolish woman; how can shepare to you? When we are together, let¡¯s not mention such disappointing names."


    Daisy¡¯s breathing quickened slightly, and Ian looked at her tenderly, lowering his head to ce a gentle kiss on her forehead.


    She abruptly opened her eyes, pushed him away with a wave of her hand, and hoarsely shouted, "Don¡¯t touch me!"


    Ian reversed his grip, took hold of her slender wrist, and pinned her at the head of the bed. As Daisy struggled, a needle pierced her carotid artery, and icy liquid rushed into her system.


    The drug took effect quickly, and almost the next second, Daisy¡¯s entire body went limp.


    She strained to lift her eyes to look at Ian. The man still gazed down at her tenderly, those brown eyes seemingly filled with countless affections, brimming with tenderness.


    "Just a little sleeping pill and tranquilizer," he said warmly, stroking her long hair with his fingers, "to help you get a good night¡¯s sleep. It doesn¡¯t matter if you hate me... I just don¡¯t want you to continue suffering without dignity by that person¡¯s side..."

 Chapter 173 "What happened to your face?

    <h4>Chapter 173: Chapter 173 "What happened to your face?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s consciousness gradually faded away, forced into a sweet, dark dream.


    Ian Linton looked at her with deep affection, then leaned over and nted a kiss on the back of her hand.


    Sooner orter, you¡¯ll realize that what I¡¯m doing is right.


    He sighed softly, stood up from the bedside, and went to the bathroom to treat his facial wounds.


    If Daisy had been any stronger, perhaps she would have sliced off half the skin on his face just now.


    He moved his facial muscles, and feeling that the nerves were unharmed, he washed his face and let it be.


    *


    Police station.


    Edward Stephens received a call from the deputy director to discuss the progress of the case at the police station.


    Daisy Ginger had been missing for three whole days. The forest where Ervin Osteenmitted suicide had been thoroughly searched, but no clues were found.


    It¡¯s very likely that it wasn¡¯t the primary crime scene.


    But now, with Ervin dead and the clues cut off, if Daisy were still alive and held somewhere, their dy in finding her would significantly diminish her chances of survival.


    Without water and food, a person can only survive for three to seven days.


    It¡¯s already been three whole days, and considering her frail body after the car ident, she might not hold on much longer.


    Edward hadn¡¯t been sleeping much these days, and even when he managed to fall asleep, his mind raced incessantly, startling him awake time and again, awaiting a call that never came.


    He hadn¡¯t known Daisy for long, just over half a year. This marriage wasn¡¯t what he wanted, yet after he chose not to let go, fate yed this cruel joke on him.


    Even he found it absurd andughable.


    In the end, it was he who got trapped.


    He drove in a hurry to the police station, where a ck Range Rover was already parked. As he got out, so did Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker.


    Zoe looked very haggard; she hadn¡¯t even put on her usual heavy makeup, and her fair face showed a pale hue. Her brows were furrowed, and she clung tightly to Ethan¡¯s hand, looking as if she might copse at any moment.


    Ethan supported her and reprimanded in a low voice, "I told you to rest at home. Looking like a sick cat, what good doesing here do?"


    Zoe whispered, "I just want to find Ginger as soon as possible..."


    As she spoke, she noticed Edwarding out of a car nearby and paused slightly. Ethan furrowed his brow and impatiently asked, "What are you doing here?"


    Edward replied, "The deputy director called me."


    Zoe said, "What a coincidence? We just got a call from the deputy director too."


    As they spoke, a ck sedan pulled up at the police station entrance; Edward nced at the license te and saw it was Ian Linton¡¯s.


    The car door opened, and Chloe Brooke and Ian Linton got out together.


    The couple seemed taken aback to see everyone gathered at the entrance, not understanding how it happened that they all showed up at once.


    Zoe asked, "Did you also get a call from the deputy director?"


    Chloe hesitated, nodded, and looked at them uncertainly, cautiously asking, "Did they find any clues?"


    Edward¡¯s gaze fell on Ian¡¯s face not far away. A white bandage covered nearly half his face. Seeing Edward looking at him, Ian nodded warmly, smiled, and greeted him, "Hello, Edward."


    Edward looked at him, "What happened to your face?"


    *


    Remember to vote, please.

 Chapter 174: Crime Committed by an Acquaintance

    <h4>Chapter 174: Chapter 174: Crime Committed by an Acquaintance</h4>


    Ian Linton hadn¡¯t spoken yet, Chloe Brooke spoke first.


    "Ian worked overtime untiltest night. When he came back, he was scratched by a branch."


    Her tone carried a hint of gentle concern and a bit of me towards her husband.


    Ian Linton paused slightly, raised his hand to gently pat his wife¡¯s hand back, and said warmly, "It¡¯s okay." Then he softly said to Edward Stephens, "Sorry for any embarrassment, Edward. I¡¯ve seen the doctor; it¡¯s not a big deal, just need to take some anti-inmmatory medicine."


    Edward looked at him for a few moments, then withdrew his gaze and walked into the police station without speaking further.


    Soon, police officers came out to receive them.


    The group was divided into three batches, entering the interrogation room one after another.


    When it was Edward Stephens¡¯ turn, the deputy chief personally greeted him.


    These days, the two had been calling each other every day and were quite familiar. When the deputy chief saw him, he smiled amicably and handed him a cigarette.


    He sat down in front of Edward Stephens and said kindly, "We¡¯ve received some international assistance over the past few days, which has been very helpful to our investigation process. Edward, you¡¯ve been very thoughtful."


    "It¡¯s no trouble at all." Edward took the cigarette but didn¡¯t light it, merely fiddling with it casually in his hand. He lowered his gaze, was quiet for a moment, and then asked, "What ideas do you have on this side?"


    "Our experts believe Ervin Osteen¡¯s cause of death is somewhat suspicious." The deputy chief¡¯s tone became serious as he said, "He had stored a week¡¯s worth of water and food, clearly intending to continue fleeing. Suicide on the day was unlikely. The crime scene contained a nket for overnight use; someone who chooses to poison themselves wouldn¡¯t take such an item off the vehicle."


    "What¡¯s the deal with the arsenic in the bottle of water then?"


    "No other fingerprints were detected on the bottle, and there were no signs of needle injection, but we suspect that someone tampered with this bottle of water in advance."


    Edward looked at him with deep, ck eyes, "You¡¯re saying Ervin Osteen had an aplice."


    Someone had put arsenic in the water in advance and handed it to Ervin Osteen.


    "Moreover, Ervin Osteen trusted him deeply," the deputy chief said, "He didn¡¯t suspect there was a problem with the bottle of water at all."


    Edward acknowledged with a sound, showing little surprise on his face; these things could be deduced from the crime scene. However, the crucial question is¡ªwho was Ervin Osteen¡¯s aplice?


    If Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t kidnapped by Ervin Osteen, then whose hands is she in now?


    The deputy chief handed over a lighter and said, "Have a cigarette first."


    Edward eyed him, did not refuse, and slowly lit the cigarette.


    Nicotine brings calm. After a while, he said, "It¡¯s already been three days. If we can¡¯t find her, I¡¯m afraid..."


    He paused on the following words, and his perpetually calm face furrowed slightly between his brows for a moment, then rxed quickly, seemingly rejecting the thought of that possibility.


    "I called you today to confirm something," the deputy chief said. "Since Ervin Osteen was just a smokescreen, there¡¯s another possibility for the one who kidnapped your wife."


    Edward was quiet for a moment, his eyebrows slowly furrowing.


    He watched the deputy chief for a while before quietly saying, "A familiar perpetrator?"


    "Three days have passed since the incident, and we haven¡¯t received any ransom calls. This isn¡¯t an ordinary extortion kidnapping. Either herpetitor is trying to destroy her without seeking financial gain, or someone harbors resentment against her and has confined her." The deputy chief looked at him and asked, "Who knew of her itinerary the night she went out?"

 Chapter 175 The Happiest Days

    <h4>Chapter 175: Chapter 175 The Happiest Days</h4>


    Who knows her itinerary?


    Chloe Brooke and Ian Linton¡¯s wedding, and Daisy Ginger¡¯s attendance at it¡ªhe found out only when he returned home and saw Daisy changing clothes.


    Besides him, who else would know, apart from Daisy¡¯s two chat friends in the group, Zoe Hilker and Ethan Pond?


    Edward Stephens walked out of the deputy bureau office with a stern expression, and Ethan Pond and Ian Linton had just filed out of the interrogation room.


    Everyone¡¯s face was extremely grave, all likely having received the same news.


    They all have alibis: On the day of the incident, Edward Stephens was at home, Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker were working at the bar, while Chloe Brooke and Ian Linton were hosting their wedding.


    If it was done by someone familiar, then who among them kidnapped Daisy Ginger?


    While scrutinizing each other, their eyes carried traces of vignce and suspicion.


    Ethan Pond licked his lip ring, nced at Edward Stephens and Ian Linton, and said, "I don¡¯t care whose hands Ginger¡¯s in now; when I catch them, I¡¯ll beat them half to death before calling the police."


    Edward Stephens rolled his eyes at him, shoved his hands into his pockets, and walked out silently.


    Ethan Pond stood behind, watching Edward leave, and quietly said to Zoe Hilker, "This guy, could he possibly..."


    Everyone knows Edward Stephens was forced to marry Daisy Ginger. Could he be fed up with the marriage and chose to act first?


    Zoe Hilker, feverish and drowsy, sneezed, looked at Chloe Brooke and Ian Linton, and whispered, "Let¡¯s head back."


    Right now, everyone¡¯s guarding against everyone; random spection does no one any good.


    Since the police have summoned them, it indicates that the five of them are suspects under police surveince. If anyone has the slightest movement after returning, they might be arrested.


    This is a warning. Even if the kidnapper wants to handle Daisy Ginger now, they¡¯d have to weigh whether they can avoid the police¡¯s watch.


    *


    Night falls.


    Ian Linton picked up some takeout and drove towards thepany.


    He parked the car at thepany entrance, and as usual, carried the packed box inside.


    As his figure disappeared into thepany, a slender silhouette wearing a baseball cap slowly appeared in front of his car.


    He looked up at the illuminated office lights on the twenty-eighth floor and slightly squinted his eyes.


    ...


    "Director Ginger," Ian Linton walked into the break room with the packed box, turned on the light, ced the food on the table, and addressed Daisy Ginger, who was sitting on the bed with her wrist handcuffed by his hand, "I bought your favorite braised shrimps today. They¡¯re very fresh, have them while they¡¯re hot?"


    Daisy Ginger slightly raised her chin, "How can I eat like this, tied up?"


    Ian Linton looked at her, and with a bitter smile said, "If you were a bit more cooperative, I wouldn¡¯t have the heart to tie you up like this. You scratched my face like this, almost making me slip up, so tell me, how could I dare let you move freely?"


    His tone carried traces of helplessness, as if what he did was seemingly for her own good.


    Daisy Ginger, never in her life, had suffered such humiliation. She stared at Ian Linton smilingly, increasingly cold and charming, "Do you think you can keep me bound forever?"


    "Of course, I couldn¡¯t bear to treat you like that," Ian Linton approached, looking at her face with brown eyes full of tenderness and lingering affection, "Perhaps you won¡¯t understand, but these past few days have indeed been my happiest."


    *


    Request for rmendation vote

 Chapter 176: Is he planning to target Edward Stephens?

    <h4>Chapter 176: Chapter 176: Is he nning to target Edward Stephens?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger listened, and almost wanted tough.


    Such deep affection, as if he¡¯d aplished something extraordinary.


    Yet the only thing he did for her was imprison her next to his office; separated by a wall, he met clients and handled work, while she faded in a dark, windowless room.


    To prevent her from struggling, he even limited her food intake. Only at night would he bring in takeout boxes; during the day, she¡¯d be injected with sedatives, unable to call out.


    She even suspected that Ian Linton had prepared countless times for this day, or how could he execute it so neatly, without a shred of hesitation?


    She had never imagined that someone in this world could have such a distorted infatuation with her. During these days of confinement, in a daze, she thought about many things, like Emily Ginger, like Edward Stephens...


    The rtionship between her and the two of them, the breakups and makeups, even Ian Linton was involved.


    Amusingly, it wasn¡¯t until Ian Linton kidnapped her that she gradually realized what this man had been doing around her.


    "Director Ginger, let¡¯s eat." Ian Linton handed her a spoon, speaking gently, "You haven¡¯t eaten all day; aren¡¯t you hungry?"


    Daisy closed her eyes. The sedative hadn¡¯t fully worn off; her limbs were weak, and even her mind was a little unclear. After a long while, she asked, "What did you do to Emily Ginger?"


    Ian paused slightly, then looked down at her, smiled faintly, "Want to know? Then behave and eat, and I¡¯ll tell you."


    Daisy looked at him. The man¡¯s face retained his usual gentle and elegant expression, even the faint smile on his face was pleasing to the eye. She was silent for a moment, then reached out and grasped the spoon Ian offered, scooping a bite of rice.


    "Actually, not much." Ian said softly, "She just found out that I like you, that¡¯s all."


    "..." Daisy¡¯s movements paused slightly, recalling the day she came home and saw Ian and Emily arguing; the conversation she hadn¡¯t understood then suddenly made sense now.


    A slight look of disgust appeared on her face, "You¡¯re disgusting."


    "Daisy, I really didn¡¯t intend to do anything at first." Ian called her name, slowly stretched his hand, lifted a lock of her long hair on her shoulder, and kissed it beside his lips. His voice was low and tender, "I was always... satisfied just watching you from afar. To me, you were that unreachable beam of light. Over the years, the only thing I could do was watch over you silently from where I stood."


    "..." Daisy shivered, hearing his heartfelt confession. The muscles on her face twitched a few times, but she still didn¡¯t interrupt his self-pity.


    "That day you asked me ¡ª could I die for you? You were right; there are many people in this world who love you. Only Edward Stephens would die for you. He loves you more than I do; I feel inferior. Compared to the Edward Stephens back then, I feel ashamed. I can¡¯tpare to him; how could I win the ce he holds in your heart?"


    As Ian said this, he couldn¡¯t help butugh lowly. His gaze fixed on Daisy, growing softer, "In all of Banyan City, how many men fancy you? They love you, yet fear you. Your heart has long been upied by a man, how could we ever surpass Edward Stephens - but, that¡¯s the Edward Stephens of the past."


    "I don¡¯t approve of him being with you now." Ian¡¯s voice turned cold, "He¡¯s no longer worthy of you. Being with him makes you cheap. That mere Emily Ginger could entice him away, such a man, how could he still deserve to stand by your side now?"


    "I don¡¯t approve of him being with you now." Daisy repeated his words,ughing out loud, resting her head in her hand. Afterughing for a while, she couldn¡¯t help but say, "Ian Linton, who the hell do you think you are? God? Do I need your permission to be with someone? You say he doesn¡¯t deserve to stand by my side, and you do?"


    Her tone was dripping with sarcasm.


    Ian¡¯s gentle expression shifted slightly, his eyes darkening as he looked at Daisy for a while before saying calmly, "At the very least, I love you more than he does now."


    "You really know how to congratte yourself." Daisy retorted, "Aside from kidnapping me, what else have you done for me?"


    "Anyone who has hurt you, I¡¯ll deal with them for you." Ian looked at her softly, reaching out, his cold fingers touching her face, "I¡¯ve already dealt with one for you..."


    Daisy¡¯s pupils contracted slightly for a moment as she looked at Ian and shouted sharply, "What did you do to Edward?!"


    "It¡¯s not Edward Stephens." Ian said ndly, "But he won¡¯t escape either."


    Daisy¡¯s thoughts were disrupted by his words.


    Ian Linton would harm Edward Stephens.


    This bastard had already gone mad!


    Is this love? No, it¡¯s self-indulgent self-satisfaction.


    In his mind, she was merely a doll; any deviation from the path he set for her, and he would forcefully correct it.


    But why? Who did he think he was to interfere in her and Edward Stephen¡¯s affairs?


    Daisy almost wanted tough, what sins had shemitted to attract Ian Linton, this lunatic?


    She raised her hand, throwing the food across the table onto Ian, hoarsely yelling, "Get out¡ª!!"


    Ian nced at the stains on himself, furrowing his brow slightly, just about to say something when his phone suddenly vibrated, he paused, took out the phone, tapped a few times on the screen, and his expression changed.


    After a moment, he put down the phone, deeply looking at Daisy for a while, then lifted his hand to gently caress her face, "Director Ginger, my time¡¯s almost up. Your husband seems to be getting suspicious of me," he said with a lowugh, somewhat sarcastically cold, "He¡¯sing, faster than I expected."


    Daisy hesitated slightly, seeing Ian¡¯s face, she understood, just as she was about to cry out loud, Ian had already produced a syringe, injecting a sedative into her.


    She unwillingly propped up her body, opened her mouth, but realized she could no longer call out, her body swayed and fell onto the bed.


    She gazed up, watching Ian just standing there, looking down at her. In the light, his appearance seemed bizarre. That handsome, upright face, with slightly flickering eyes, held a gleam of madness, perhaps even hatred, and he watched her quietly until she gradually lost consciousness.


    Was he nning to make a move on Edward Stephens?


    Having been held here for so long, she finally felt afraid.

 Chapter 177: A Woman’s Long Hair

    <h4>Chapter 177: Chapter 177: A Woman¡¯s Long Hair</h4>


    Yet, no matter how terrified she was, nor how unwilling she was to fall asleep, she still couldn¡¯t resist the power of the drug. With an indescribable feeling, she was once again forcibly put into slumber by Ian Linton.


    *


    Edward Stephens walked all the way to the only office in the entire Linton n building that still had lights on.


    When he stopped in front of Ian Linton¡¯s vice-president¡¯s office, his expression remained calm. As he was about to use the bank card in his palm to unlock the office door, it suddenly opened with a "click."


    Ian Linton¡¯s figure, d in a shirt, appeared before him.


    The air was filled with the warm heat from the air conditioning. The man had his sleeves rolled up, with water still on his hands, and a food stain was present on the white shirt he wore. Seeing Edward Stephens, he didn¡¯t seem too surprised, only looked at him helplessly, "Young Master Edward, if you had called me, I would have let you in."


    Edward replied lightly with a "hmm" and then nced inside the office, "Can Ie in?"


    Ian Linton stood at the doorway, gazing at Edward Stephens with a look full of helplessness, as if Edward were some naive child.


    Edward Stephens appeared extremelyposed, as if he weren¡¯t the one intruding here. The bank card danced like a butterfly between his fingers. He raised his chin slightly, demanding Ian to move aside.


    Ian Linton asked, "On what grounds are you asking toe in?"


    Edward calmly replied, "I suspect you kidnapped my wife. Is that reason sufficient?"


    Ian was left speechless, and after a moment, he sighed gently, as if he were toozy to argue further, and stepped aside.


    Edward stepped forward and walked in.


    Ian Linton¡¯s office, much like his personality, was elegantly and warmly decorated.


    The curtains were beige, with smoke grey tilesying on the floor. Documents were neatly piled on the desk, offering an unobstructed view.


    It seemed fake, like a sample room.


    Edward¡¯s gaze swept inch by inch across the office, and then stopped on the handle of the resting room door. He looked up and gave Ian Linton a nce.


    Ian Linton shrugged his shoulders, "Go ahead."


    Edward didn¡¯t bother with pleasantries, walked over, and twisted open that beige door.


    A faint medicinal scent wafted through the air, and Edward furrowed his brow slightly. For some unknown reason, this scent made his heart leap a bit.


    Once that moment of unease passed, he refocused and swept his gaze into the small resting room.


    The bed linens were neatly folded, and there were signs of food containers being overturned on the floor. Considering the stains on Ian¡¯s clothes and the dripping water on his hands, it was easy to imagine he identally spilled food while eating here. Edward turned his head to nce at Ian, "You didn¡¯t have dinner?"


    Ian¡¯s expression remained unchanged, "I identally spilled myte-night snack."


    Edward nced at the cold shrimp on the floor, smirking slightly, "You eat pretty well for ate-night snack."


    Ian leaned against the door, seemingly also provoked by his words.


    He brushed his hair aside and said, "I know you¡¯re anxious because Director Ginger is missing, but really, Young Master Edward? Suspecting me is one thing, but sneaking into mypany at night? If it weren¡¯t for my phone rm, I might have been scared to death by you."


    Edward gave a light sneer, his handsome face showing a hint of sarcasm. He withdrew his gaze and leisurely strolled around the small room, even spreading out the bed sheets to examine them carefully.


    "You seem very bold," he saidzily, "I can¡¯t tell you were frightened at all."


    "I was reminded when I went to the police station today," Ian responded, "The police suspect we kidnapped Director Ginger, but I don¡¯t think that¡¯s the right direction."


    Edward emerged from the bedside, nomittal as he bent down, picking out a bottle from a corner, and waved it in front of Ian, "What¡¯s this?"


    "Hemostatic medicine," Ian replied, "I just bought it from the pharmacy. You know my face was scratched."


    Edward lowered his eyes, silently opened the bottle, and lightly sniffed some on his fingertip.


    It was the very same scent that permeated the air.


    Watching his actions, Ian seemed increasingly helpless. He asked, "Want me to remove the bandage and show you?"


    "No need." Edward ced the medicine bottle on the small table, "Hmm... I¡¯m just having a casual look. No need to be so nervous."


    He toured around the room, appearing to find nothing, then exited from the resting room.


    Ian closed the door casually, only to see Edward lounging against the distant doorframe, looking at him with a faint smile.


    "I know you¡¯re worried about Director Ginger¡¯s safety," Ian walked over, standing before Edward, "but taking it out on me is unreasonable."


    "Taking it out on you?"


    "Do you not me me for inviting Director Ginger to the wedding, leading to their kidnapping?"


    "I¡¯m not someone who can¡¯t tell right from wrong," replied Edward calmly, "I just think you¡¯re the biggest suspect, that¡¯s all."


    "Why me?"


    "Intuition." Edward looked at him, confidently retorting, "Not eptable?"


    Ian held back his anger, "Young Master Edward, I too have important matters to attend to. If you¡¯re free, feel free to help me organize files. I wee you to work with me."


    Edward gave him a sidelong nce, withdrew his gaze coldly, and leaned forward to leave, "I¡¯m off."


    That air of nonchnce, as if he were the master here.


    Ian pinched his brow, seemingly finding him quite troublesome and sighed helplessly.


    Edward entered the elevator and pressed the button to go down.


    Thezy expression on his face was gone, reced by calm sternness.


    When Ian was the first to open the door, he already knew he might not find any clues.


    It seemed that by triggering the rm while tampering with the elevator¡¯s lock code, Ian was alerted.


    He exited the elevator, expressionless, leaving the building and getting into his car parked under the shade.


    Taking a deep breath, Edward lowered his head to inspect what he had brought from upstairs.


    It was a long, slightly curled strand of women¡¯s hair.


    He had picked it up from the pillow without Ian noticing.


    Edward pursed his lips, stared at the strand of hair for a long time, before cing it in a transparent stic bag, passing it to the person sitting in the back of the car.


    "Take it for testing."


    He couldn¡¯t be sure whose hair it was, considering Chloe Brooke¡¯s hairstyle was quite simr to Daisy Ginger¡¯s.


    The person behind him left, Edward lifted his head, gazing at the office shining brightly above.


    No shadows were visible, but instinctively, he felt someone standing by the window, hands in pockets, looking down at him.


    *


    Please rmend votes.

 Chapter 178: Unrealistic Desires 1

    <h4>Chapter 178: Chapter 178: Unrealistic Desires 1</h4>


    He stared at the brightly lit ss window for a while, then slowly withdrew his gaze. He leaned against the leather chair in silence and lit a cigarette.


    Laboratory gene testparison, the fastest is two hours.


    He can afford to wait.


    *


    At half past twelve, theb called. The hair Edward Stephens found in Ian Linton¡¯s lounge has the exact same gic sequence as Daisy Ginger!


    At the same time, the police department issued an arrest warrant. Ian Linton, vice president of the Linton Group, is a prime suspect in this kidnapping case, demanding he be arrested immediately!


    The deputy director called, instructing Edward Stephens to stay put and not act rashly, "so as not to alert the snake." Edward thought, I¡¯ve already alerted the snake.


    So it really was Ian Linton. Honestly, spection is one thing, reality is another. When the police told him about the gic sequence match, he breathed a sigh of relief, but at the same time, his heart sank slightly.


    He stared at the still-lit light, his eyes dark, extinguished the cigarette in his hand, put on a stern face, and quickly pushed open the car door, walking swiftly into the office building.


    Suddenly, he had a very ominous premonition. Earlier in the office, when Ian Linton met him, his effortless acting might not have been feigned. This person is deceitful and cunning, with a performative personality. If he didn¡¯t have a definite grasp, he wouldn¡¯t havee over personally to open the door for him...


    Edward Stephens rushed into the office.


    The lights were still on, but the ce was already deserted.


    The officeyout was the same as when he arrived earlier, but Ian Linton was already gone.


    This man is so cunning that the moment he realized he was being watched, he was ready to make a move, regardless of whether evidence was found.


    However, when he chose to disappear, he had already decided to reveal himself. He chose to be a wanted criminal just to take Daisy Ginger away...


    Edward Stephens¡¯ expression showed a hint of sinister under the light. He silently searched the entire office, entered the lounge, and searched again. Thinking that two hours ago, Daisy Ginger might¡¯ve been right under his nose and he didn¡¯t bring her back, he had the urge to catch Ian Linton and break his bones one by one.


    Where has he taken Daisy Ginger?


    What does he want to do to Daisy Ginger?


    Daisy Ginger... how is she now?


    His usuallyposed and calm heart started losing control as he gradually approached the truth.


    He finally understood where the subtle hostility and disgust towards Ian Linton came from all along¡ªthis man harbored deep and twisted strong feelings for Daisy Ginger. Regardless of how he disguised it, hidden in the corners of his eyes was a covetous and longing glimpse of his woman.


    That greed was subconsciously picked up by him, constantly reminding him, without his awareness.


    And he was foolish enough to only realize it when Daisy Ginger was kidnapped.


    In his whole life, he had never been so manipted.


    ...


    Edward Stephens stood in the center of the empty office, his face gloomy, and his knuckles crackling. He restrained the desire to smash the entire office, turned around, and stood at the door awaiting the police arrival.


    Ten minutester, local police arrived.


    The deputy director, looking hurried and exhausted, saw Edward Stephens standing at the door and walked up, "Where is he?"

 Chapter 179: Unrealistic Desires 2

    <h4>Chapter 179: Chapter 179: Unrealistic Desires 2</h4>


    "He ran." Edward Stephens¡¯ face was dark, his expression grim. "I looked for him two hours ago and found a strand of Daisy Ginger¡¯s hair in his lounge. Although I took it without his knowledge, I¡¯m afraid he already realized I¡¯m onto him."


    The deputy chief paused, seeing Edward Stephens¡¯ somewhat dejected look, patted his shoulder, and reassured him, "You¡¯ve already done very well."


    The team he brought had quickly sealed off the office and found arge number of Daisy Ginger¡¯s fingerprints in the lounge. They even discovered her dried blood on the sheets.


    Edward Stephens¡¯ unexpected arrival left Ian Linton with little time to deal with these traces; we can say the evidence is conclusive.


    On the floor of the lounge, they found a rudimentary lift leading directly to the basement parking lot.


    When Edward Stephens arrived at Ian Linton¡¯s office, Daisy Ginger might have already been hidden in the parking lot by him.


    And while he awaited the test results in the car, he had already driven out of the parking lot with Daisy Ginger, heading in an unknown direction.


    Edward Stephens punched the wall, blood droplets bursting from his knuckles. An infinite surge of negative emotions spread from his chest, and he couldn¡¯t even feel the pain of his broken bones crashing against the wall.


    If only he had been more careful and not been discovered by Ian Linton...


    This thought exploded like fireworks in his mind, making it impossible for him to calm down and think.


    "Young Master Wen," someone approached and ced a hand on his shoulder, "why don¡¯t you go downstairs and rest for a bit? We can handle the inspection here."


    Edward Stephens raised his head and looked at the face of the middle-aged man in front of him, a face that was stern yet slightly kind, with a hint of worry in his eyes.


    He nced at his reflection in the ss window and was slightly startled by what he saw.


    Those eyes, swirling with deep whirlpools of malevolence...


    The deputy chief¡¯s voice was slightly lowered, "Let us, the police, handle the arrest of the criminal. Don¡¯t do anything foolish."


    It was both a reminder and a warning.


    Edward Stephens silently withdrew his gaze and took steps toward the elevator. The deputy chief watched his back, frowning slightly.


    Extreme wisdom can lead to self-injury.


    He¡¯s a smart man; he should know the boundaries of thew and the principles of being a good person.


    It¡¯s better not to do anything foolish...


    *


    Edward Stephens sat in the car, used his mouth to twist open a bottle of mineral water, and poured it over his injured knuckles.


    The clear water mixed with blood flowed down, the intense stabbing pain dissipating the frustration in his heart. He slowly exhaled, tossed the empty water bottle on the floor, and then leaned wearily against the leather seat.


    It¡¯s been too long since he¡¯d had a good rest, and his body was filled with inexplicable soreness and fatigue; only his mind remained ever-clear, running at high speed, waiting for any iing news.


    Daisy Ginger...


    He silently recited the name in his heart, looking up at the stars above.


    After paying such a high price, if something happens to you, even as a ghost, I won¡¯t let you go.


    *


    At one o¡¯clock in the morning, Chloe Brooke, Ian Linton¡¯s parents, and Chloe Brooke¡¯s parents, as rtives and the wife of the suspect, were all summoned to the police station.


    The arrest warrant had been issued, and Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker were also notified. Late at night, they drove to the police station and saw Edward Stephens leaning against the entrance, smoking. Ethan Pond got off his motorcycle, rushed over, grabbed his cor, and demanded sharply, "Has Daisy been found?!"

 Chapter 180: Unrealistic Desires 3

    <h4>Chapter 180: Chapter 180: Unrealistic Desires 3</h4>


    Edward Stephens nced at his hands, his voice low and cold: "Let go."


    "Edward Stephens, you...!"


    Zoe Hilker ran over, grabbed Ethan Pond¡¯s arm. She had a cold and fever, sneezed, and said nasally, "Daisy was taken away by Ian Linton. Why are you questioning Edward? Are you an idiot!"


    Ethan Pond gritted his teeth and red at Edward Stephens, "Aren¡¯t you close with Ian Linton? Can¡¯t you see Daisy¡¯s been kidnapped by him? Edward Stephens, what else can you do besides having this face?"


    Edward Stephens narrowed his eyes slightly, expressionless as he pressed the cigarette butt onto Ethan Pond¡¯s hand. The man eximed "ouch" and quickly withdrew his hand. Edward sneered, "Are the eyes on your face just for decoration?"


    Ethan Pond was annoyed just looking at him, clenched his fist, and provoked, "Do you want to fight?"


    Zoe Hilker had to tug on Ethan Pond¡¯s clothes, softly reminding him, "Ethan, it¡¯s Daisy who¡¯s close to Ian Linton... Don¡¯t you remember on Daisy¡¯s birthday, Ian Linton gave her a birthday gift? She was very happy and even told us in the group."


    Ethan Pond frowned slightly and cursed under his breath, "Damn." Since Daisy Ginger hadn¡¯t realized Ian Linton¡¯s true nature, he had nothing more to say.


    Edward Stephens rolled his eyes at him, threw the cigarette butt into the trash, leaned against the door, and unconsciously furrowed his brows.


    These days, his brow had never rxed for even a few minutes; he couldn¡¯t rx even in his sleep.


    A police car stopped at the door.


    Chloe Brooke and her parents were escorted out of the car by the police.


    She appeared dazed, her bright little face looking pitifully pale in the night.


    Ethan Pond nced at her a few times, discovered something, and withdrew his gaze, cursing under his breath again: "Damn."


    Zoe Hilker quietly asked, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    Ethan Pond: "Don¡¯t you think, his wife looks like someone?"


    Zoe Hilker nced at Chloe Brooke a few times, then softly said, "I¡¯ve been wanting to say that..."


    Then she thought of Ian Linton¡¯s previous fianc¨¦e, shivered a little involuntarily.


    If it hadn¡¯te to light, no one would connect these two things.


    And now, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªover the years, how many stand-ins had Ian Linton sought for Daisy Ginger, how many women had he hurt?


    The thought that someone in Banyan City coveted Daisy Ginger so intensely made Zoe Hilker shudder.


    Ethan Pond also fell silent, watching as Chloe Brooke and her family were led into the interrogation room by the police. Possibly because Chloe Brooke looked so pitiful, Ethan Pond cursed again and vented his anger towards Edward Stephens.


    In a low voice, he said, "If you hade back earlier, you wouldn¡¯t have given other men an opportunity."


    Had Ian Linton¡¯s inappropriate thoughts about Daisy Ginger not arisen because you weren¡¯t around in recent years, giving him room to fantasize?


    "..." Edward Stephens raised his head, nced at Ethan Pond, and calmly said, "That¡¯s why I¡¯m back now."


    Ethan Pond was taken aback, frowned at him, and then heard Edward Stephens say, "It still wasn¡¯t up to me this time. Look at yourself, you can¡¯t handle anything important."


    Ethan Pond: "..."


    The goodwill aroused by Edward Stephens¡¯ previous words vanished instantly. Ethan Pond clenched his fist and walked up, saying to Edward Stephens, "I think you really want me to beat you up."

 Chapter 181: "Just Taking It to Heart.

    <h4>Chapter 181: Chapter 181: "Just Taking It to Heart.</h4>


    Edward Stephens crossed his arms and leaned against the door, looking up at Ethan Pond¡¯s fierce expression, sneering slightly, "Back then, even with a baseball bat, you couldn¡¯t beat me. Are you sure it wasn¡¯t you who got thrashed by me?"


    Zoe Hilker had no choice but to drag her weary body out to mediate, "Ethan, Edward, are you two trying to provoke the cops by fighting at the police station doors?"


    Do you want to experience a day tour in detention?


    Ethan withdrew his gaze, shot Edward a cold nce, and said to Zoe, "I find this kid ufortable."


    Edward slightly curled his lips into a half-smile, "Likewise."


    This guy didn¡¯t even bother hiding his feelings for Daisy Ginger in his eyes, yet somehow managed to muddle through for so many years in front of her.


    When Daisyes back, I¡¯ll have her block him, just to annoy him.


    Edward thought expressionlessly.


    *


    A little past one o¡¯clock, Ian Linton¡¯s parents were also brought over.


    Mr. Linton seemed somewhat calm, but Mother Linton was already inplete despair. When she was taken out of the police car, she kept clutching the policeman¡¯s hand, repeatedly saying, "Officer, you must have made a mistake. It can¡¯t be our Ian. Our Ian is already married. How could he be involved in a kidnapping..."


    Edward had no interest in listening any further. He stood up straight from the door and walked out.


    Zoe watched Edward¡¯s departing back and couldn¡¯t help but say, "Do you think he... remembered?"


    Ethan¡¯s cold eyes fell on Edward, and he scoffed, "Does he look like he remembered?"


    Zoe lowered her head in disappointment, "Then why..."


    "Who in Banyan City doesn¡¯t know what happened back then?" Ethan said tly, "If he cared even a little, he wouldn¡¯t need to ask around. Just ask anyone and he would know everything clearly."


    Zoe said softly, "Then now he..."


    "Just cares now." Ethan concluded coldly, not speaking further, and went to find a bench to sit on in the police station.


    How could there be a man in this world who is loved like that by her and not be moved?


    Ethan scoffed disdainfully.


    Edward Stephens is just another ordinary man.


    *


    Edward drove back to the Stephens family home.


    He parked the car at the entrance, entered the house, and saw the woman sitting on the sofa in her nightgown. He frowned slightly and walked over, calling her, "Mom, why are you sleeping here?"


    Lady Stephens was startled awake. She opened her eyes to see her son, rubbed her eyes, and stood up from the sofa.


    "Edward, you¡¯re back?" She walked over, "These days, I¡¯ve been a bit uneasy. I came down for a ss of water and somehow fell asleep on the sofa..."


    Edward reached out, holding her cold, temperatureless hand, looking down at Lady Stephens¡¯ noticeably thinner and paler face.


    "What are you afraid of?" Edward said quietly, "When you made your choice, you had already thought it through, right? Now, do you regret it?"


    Lady Stephens lightly trembled, looking up at her son. Her lips slightly trembled, showing a bit of sadness and sorrow.


    Edward said, "I will find her safe and sound, and then the three of us will continue as before. You have nothing to worry about."


    Lady Stephens¡¯ eyes gradually reddened, her throat choked up, and clutching her son¡¯s hand, she asked with a cry in her voice, "Edward, do you me mom for being selfish?"


    *


    Remember to vote.

 Chapter 182: No Retreat

    <h4>Chapter 182: Chapter 182: No Retreat</h4>


    "At this point, it¡¯s no longer important." Edward Stephens released her hand and draped a nket over her shoulders, "Get some rest early. When Daisy Gingeres back, you¡¯ll still need to go out with her to unwind. Don¡¯t let yourself fall ill before then."


    "Edward," Lady Stephens remained silent for a moment before she couldn¡¯t help but speak, "Actually..."


    Edward Stephens interrupted her, "I¡¯m not interested."


    Lady Stephens was slightly taken aback, looking at her son with reddened eyes, yet seeing his usual expression, unable to discern what he was thinking now.


    Did he know?


    When did he find out?


    Why hasn¡¯t he asked her about it?


    Does he hate her?


    Does he me her?


    ...


    A multitude of thoughts surfaced in her mind in an instant, but they receded under Edward Stephens¡¯ calm demeanor. She didn¡¯t know how to start, and at this point, besides anxiety, there was ayer of guilt in her heart.


    Perhaps, when she made that choice, she no longer had the right to ask Edward Stephens, "Do you resent me?"


    "Edward," Lady Stephens lowered her head and choked back a sob before saying, "No matter what you think, you must know that I did this because I love you."


    Edward Stephens said, "I know."


    He then added, "I¡¯ll take you upstairs to rest."


    Lady Stephens nodded with reddened eyes, held her son¡¯s hand, and went upstairs.


    Stopping in front of the bedroom, Lady Stephens, wrapped in a thin nket, raised her hand to gently stroke her son¡¯s cheek. Her gaze was tender and warm as she whispered, "My little Edward, you¡¯ve really grown up..."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ eyes shimmered slightly, and he let out a soft sigh, "Go rest."


    Lady Stephens nodded slowly, turned around, and entered the bedroom.


    After escorting his mother back to her room, Edward Stephens leaned against the wall, gazing into the void, exhaling a breath.


    Some things, as he just said, are no longer important.


    The human heart changes easily, especially after so much time has passed.


    What was once uneptable has now be a fact.


    He could not me her for anything, not to mention everything was his own choice.


    At this point, there was no way back.


    *


    When Daisy Ginger awoke from her slumber, she hadn¡¯t immediately realized she was in a different ce.


    In a muddled state, still feeling very weak, she stared at the white ceiling for a while before slowly beginning to shift her gaze.


    The sight before her was no longer the furnishings of her memory.


    Shey on a double bed, opposite was arge projection screen, cream-colored curtains fluttered by the wind as she caught sight of the ocean not far away.


    When Daisy Ginger saw the shimmering coastline, she was momentarily stunned, thinking she had slept herself silly.


    It wasn¡¯t until Ian Linton opened the door and entered with a wheelchair, inviting her to go out on the beach to soak up the sun, that she realized Ian had moved her to another ce.


    He was still the same, polite and gentle, standing by the bed inviting her with a demeanor that was wlessly graceful, his brown eyes gazing at her with warmth and friendliness.


    Daisy Ginger pped away the hand he offered, her voice hoarse, "Get lost!"


    She felt a slight panic in her heart.


    It seemed she was being moved further and further away by him.


    When would she ever be able to escape?


    "Director Ginger," Ian Linton sighed softly, his tone mncholic, "This is ourst few days of being alone together."

 Chapter 183: "It was Edward Stephens who ruined you.

    <h4>Chapter 183: Chapter 183: "It was Edward Stephens who ruined you.</h4>


    "..." Daisy Ginger watched him warily, "What do you mean?"


    "Edward Stephens, he¡¯s smarter than I imagined." Ian Linton said tly, "You merely left a scar on my face, and he already started suspecting me. Yesterday, he even sabotaged mypany¡¯s surveince, nearly found you directly in my office."


    Daisy Ginger raised her chin slightly, her tone somewhat proud, "Just wait for your doom!"


    Looking back now, even before she noticed anything wrong with Ian Linton, Edward had already warned her, saying Ian was quite scheming and needed to be watched out for.


    But at that time, she was too busy fighting with him every day to care whether he was right or wrong, just dismissing it all out of habit.


    Truly frustrating.


    Ian Linton observed her expression, his tone darkening, he murmured, "Director Ginger, you¡¯re still being obstinate.¡¯


    He leaned over, grabbing her wrist, and with a quick motion, he lifted her up horizontally. Before Daisy could struggle, she was ced on a wheelchair.


    "What do you want to do?!" she demanded sharply.


    "Didn¡¯t I say so? Let¡¯s get some sun." Ian stood behind her, looking at her with soft eyes, "This ind and vi, I bought them specifically for you. Every nt and tree here was nted to your liking... I¡¯ve been wanting to bring you here for years, finally there¡¯s a chance..."


    From his words, Daisy sensed a chilling implication.


    He stared at her¡ªhow many years had it been?


    The ind vi wasrge, and when Ian wheeled her off the elevator, exining the house¡¯s decorations and furnishings were in line with her style and preferences, Daisy¡¯s arms broke out in goosebumps.


    Because Ian wasn¡¯t wrong.


    Those paintings and sofa colors were indeed her preferences.


    Even, after staying there for a while, she had an illusion that she had designed it herself...


    Yet, it was all done by Ian Linton.


    Once she thought about it, she immediately snapped back to reality, and even felt a cold sweat forming on her back.


    It was terrifying.


    All along, when she was oblivious, someone was secretly observing her, scrutinizing all her habits and preferences.


    Is there anything more frightening than this?


    Unable to hold back, Daisy scolded, "Ian Linton, you¡¯re a psycho!"


    She hated to admit, this time, she was truly frightened by him.


    How could there be such a madman?


    "A psycho?" Ian replied calmly, "Is just loving you, and wanting to please you, a mark of madness?"


    "You...!!"


    "If Edward Stephens hadn¡¯t returned, I would have intended to just watch you like that for a lifetime." Ian halted his steps, and now, they were by the coastline.


    The gentle breeze blew, the azure sea sparkled, seabirds cried, and the sun¡¯s warmth was on their skin, not feeling cold at all.


    If Ian wasn¡¯t standing behind her, she might have truly wanted to enjoy the leisurely beauty of the scenery.


    "I didn¡¯t dare to possess you, didn¡¯t even dare to touch you, just appearing before you took so much effort. To me, you¡¯re like an untouchable phantom, too perfect, so perfect that just gazing at you feels like a defilement."


    "Edward Stephens ruined you."


    Ian said softly,ing closer, standing in front of her, looking down at her.


    "You¡¯ve changed; you¡¯re no longer the Daisy Ginger I knew."

 Chapter 184: I Can Make You Happy for a Lifetime

    <h4>Chapter 184: Chapter 184: I Can Make You Happy for a Lifetime</h4>


    His eyes held shadows like ink, enveloping his brown pupils, like a swirling vortex, making him look faintly mad.


    Daisy said, "I have always been myself."


    "The perfect woman you imagine is just a fantasy you¡¯ve crafted, with embellishments and exaggerations. Don¡¯t absurdly impose those ideas on me; it¡¯s very childish and makes you seem immature."


    Ian Linton smiled faintly, as if indifferent.


    This person was stubbornly biased, possessed with a mania that couldn¡¯t be reasoned with in just a few words.


    Ian Linton stood before her, gazing deeply at her.


    His expression gradually turned gentle and affectionate, the shadows in his pupils dispersed, revealing a clear gaze that made Daisy unconsciously recall the first time they met.


    The boy, as gentle as jade, in white clothes and ck pants, stood before the elders, giving her a shy, gentle smile.


    He was a few months younger than her and had entered school a yearter. She had always regarded him as a junior, never imagining that behind his serene appearancey such obsessive and twisted feelings.


    She felt somewhat sad and a bit regretful, withdrawing her gaze and sighing softly.


    "Ian... all these years, you¡¯ve always been the junior I treasured most."


    Ian said lightly, "That was just the side I wanted you to see. Do you really understand what kind of person I am?"


    His words left Daisy speechless.


    "But I don¡¯t me you for this." Ian lowered his eyes to look at her, "You like that side, so I pretended for you. If it weren¡¯t for Edward Stephens returning, I think I could make you happy like that for a lifetime."


    Daisy furrowed her brows slightly, turning her head to look at the distant coast. Someone with such feelings had plotted meticulously to be kind to her, and yet this kindness ultimately hurt her.


    She no longer had the heart to correct Ian¡¯s thinking. Things had developed to this point and were no longer really connected to her.


    Everything was just Ian¡¯s own presumption.


    She was never the unique goddess he imagined. She was just an ordinary person, who also felt lonely, also felt deste, alsopromised for the people she liked, who also cried, alsoughed, nothing more typical, nothing more ordinary.


    Both fell silent.


    Ian pushed her around the ind for a stroll.


    This isted ind stood alone, but standing on the shore, one could see the indistinct skyscrapers in the distance. She thought she should not have been taken out of Banyan City.


    However, given her current crippled leg, she couldn¡¯t hope to escape from this ind.


    Daisy calcted in her mind while observing her surroundings.


    Finally, she sighed regretfully.


    *


    As dusk fell, Ian pushed her back to the vi¡¯s living room, lifting her onto the sofa, gently saying to her, "Director Ginger, I¡¯ll go make dinner first. If you¡¯re bored, you can watch some TV."


    Daisy looked up at him, "How long do you n to keep me here?"


    "I don¡¯t think it will be long," Ian replied, his gentle eyes fixed on her face, "I would like to stay with you as long as possible, but sometimes, farewellse sooner than we imagine."


    Daisy furrowed her brows, looking at hisposed expression, pursed her lips slightly, and couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Ian, what exactly are you nning?"

 Chapter 185: No Turning Back

    <h4>Chapter 185: Chapter 185: No Turning Back</h4>


    "What I want to do..." Ian Linton gazes into her eyes, which gradually be deep and profound. He raises his hand, cold fingers brushing her face, his voice gentle but causing Daisy Ginger to shiver, "I want to take you back to the time before Edward Stephens returned. To not be troubled by his presence anymore, to remain radiant, unique, and unmatched."


    Daisy Ginger sneers with augh, "So you like seeing me all alone."


    She looks at him, giving a coldugh, "Watching me suffer alone for eight years brings you satisfaction, doesn¡¯t it? Ian Linton, you are a pervert!"


    Ian Linton withdraws his hand, standing before her, the gentle smile on his face gradually fading away. His brown eyes reveal an inorganic coldness.


    He says, "No matter what you think, I know you best. You are sick now, and I will cure you."


    "I¡¯ve given you countless chances, but you stubbornly refuse to see reason, repeatedly degrading yourself. I don¡¯t want to watch you ruin yourself anymore."


    "I¡¯ll go cook; take the time to calm down. Sooner orter, you¡¯ll know that what I¡¯m doing is for your own good."


    ...


    For your own good.


    Daisy Ginger leans against the sofa, her chest heaving violently, then she lifts her good foot and kicks over the coffee table in front of her.


    Ian Linton stands not far away, ncing at the overturned coffee table. Daisy Ginger taunts him with a smile, "I¡¯m just such a rough person; are you disillusioned again now?"


    Ian Linton looks at her and sighs softly, as if she had done something very unreasonable.


    This infuriated Daisy Ginger.


    Ian Linton is impervious to reason, stubborn and autocratic, to throw a tantrum in front of him feels like she¡¯s an idiot.


    Daisy Ginger simply stops talking, watching Ian Lintone over to lift the coffee table back up, ce the fruit te back, and organize everything properly before turning to the kitchen.


    An hourter, he wheels her into the dining room.


    It¡¯s a seafood feast.


    Cream cheese baked lobster, braised prawns, steamed ms, and there¡¯s even sliced sashimi.


    On the table is a bouquet ofvender roses, emanating a faint fragrance under the lights.


    Daisy Ginger is wheeled to the table, staring at the sumptuous dinner before her, her expression a bitplex.


    No need for Ian Linton to say, she already knows these are all the things she usually loves to eat.


    She enjoys seafood but hates peeling shells, so she seldom talks about it. Even Ethan Pond and the others just think she likes ordinary prawns.


    "On your birthday, I gave you my gift and thought about how you would wear the earrings close to you; I was happy for a long time." Ian Linton slides the sashimi toward her and smiles at her. His gentle brows and eyes, under the light, are elegant and refined. Daisy Ginger even sees a trace of Edward Stephens¡¯s demeanor in him.


    She¡¯s horrified, but more than that, she feels sad.


    She says, "Ian Linton, you should turn yourself in. You have a bright future ahead, don¡¯t ruin it over such a small matter."


    Ian Lintonughs, lifts his head to look at her, "If I turn myself in, would you be willing to withdraw thewsuit?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger presses her lips together, then reluctantly responds, "If you send me back to Banyan City, I won¡¯t sue you."


    Ian Linton chuckles softly, looking gently at Daisy Ginger, in a gaze that seems to see through an entire lifetime.


    After a long while, he shakes his head, "Director Ginger, I can no longer go back."


    *


    Remember to vote.

 Chapter 186 Secret Photo

    <h4>Chapter 186: Chapter 186 Secret Photo</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was slightly taken aback, vaguely aware of something, and she asked, "Ian Linton, what exactly have you done?"


    Just a simple kidnapping, why would he say such things?


    Moreover, she had even decided not to press charges against him.


    She intuitively felt that Ian Linton had done something else behind her back.


    And whatever it was, it made it impossible for him to return to normal society.


    Ian Linton just smiled gently and elegantly, not exining her question. He wore gloves and took the lobster meat out to ce it on her te, watching her as she used a dinner knife to eat, while he didn¡¯t take a single bite.


    Sometimes as Daisy looked up at him, she could feel Ian Linton¡¯s gaze resting on her body. His expression was a mixture of satisfaction and longing, purely joyful and happy, which left Daisy feelingplicated.


    It was only after she finished eating that Ian Linton got up to clear the table.


    He said with satisfaction, "Over the years, I don¡¯t know how many meals I¡¯ve prepared for you, and today, you finally got to taste it yourself."


    Daisy said, "If you just send me back, I can pretend that nothing happened."


    She hinted to him that he still had a chance to stop.


    If caught by the police and prosecuted by the court, the rest would be out of her hands.


    Ian Linton smiled silently, finished tidying up the dining table, and then wheeled her upstairs.


    Daisy returned to the room she had woken up in not long ago.


    Beige curtains, ash-grey floor, a simple and elegant personal style¡ªthis was the only ce in the vi that reflected Ian Linton¡¯s personal taste.


    He leaned down and gently lifted her onto the bed.


    As soon as Daisy hit the bed, she immediately shrank into the corner.


    Ian Linton didn¡¯t mind, gave her a smile, walked over, and turned on the huge projection screen.


    The room dimmed, and slowly, photos emerged from the screen. Daisy nced at them and was slightly stunned.


    It was a photo of her running on the school track in middle school.


    That was over ten years ago. In the photo, she was still so young. Back then, Gabriel Ginger hadn¡¯t divorced Alice Lesser, and Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger hadn¡¯t appeared yet; the harmony of the family was still visible on her face. On the screen, the girl was vivid and bright, her smile blossoming like a flower.


    Daisy furrowed her brows. She didn¡¯t recall ever taking such photos.


    It could only be that...


    Ian Linton fiddled with the projector and gently spoke from the side, "I was part of the school newspaper club in middle school. I used to only take photos of flowers, birds, and trees. You were the first person I ever photographed."


    He didn¡¯t even remember how he raised his phone to capture her.


    It must have been during the school sports day ry race; he walked by the road with a camera in a daze. When his gaze touched the vibrant young girl, he was captivated.


    Back home, while sorting the photos, he discovered this portrait and only then realized he had unwittingly photographed Daisy.


    And then...


    Daisy frowned, looking at the photos on the screen for a while, and finally, unable to bear it anymore, she cried out hoarsely, "Enough! Ian Linton, what on earth do you want!!"


    The photos spanned from middle school to high school, and even included candid shots of her at work. Just the thought of being unknowingly photographed so many times in her life made Daisy feel nauseous and creeped out.


    Why had he taken so many secret photos of her and deliberately shown them to her? What was his intention?


    Was he showing off?


    Was he boasting about how sessfully he manipted her without her knowing?

 Chapter 187 What do you think you think you think.

    <h4>Chapter 187: Chapter 187 What do you think you think you think.</h4>


    Ian Lintonughed softly, his voice gentle and soft, "Director Ginger, please don¡¯t be angry. I just wanted to show you... how radiant you were before."


    "Don¡¯t you think you were glowing back then? You could capture anyone¡¯s attention effortlessly, more dazzling than mes..."


    His voice lowered, and then he sighed lightly, as if with regret.


    "I really can¡¯t bear to see you, heartbroken for such a man,promising your dignity." He stood by the bed, fiddled with the projector, the screen dimmed, and then, a photograph of a young man appeared.


    Daisy Ginger looked at the photo, her whole body trembled, her eyes reddened, and she tightly pursed her lips.


    That was...


    A photo of Edward Stephens when he was young.


    After Edward Stephens had an ident and left Banyan City, she had regretted countless times not having taken any photos with him, resulting in eight lonely years with only a few pictures to console herself.


    She had touched those photos thousands of times, the face of that young man, she had gazed at it until dawn in the deep night, afraid of ruining them, she had sealed them away in an album, imagining Edward Stephens¡¯ appearance now through the stic sheet.


    She hadn¡¯t expected that Ian Linton would have so many photos of Edward Stephens from before.


    Him ying basketball on the court, sweating profusely; him riding a bicycle, taking her home; him carrying her out of the ssroom when she fainted from menstrual cramps; and her eating ice cream, yfully demanding he carry her home...


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s eyes widened slightly, looking at each photo on the screen, memories she once thought forgotten were captured in the camera, frame by frame, every detail vividly appearing in her mind.


    She even remembered the scent of his sweat, the soap fragrance on his clothes, the tickling sensation when his hair brushed against her nose, and his clear, gentle, shy, doe-like beautiful eyes watching her with a faint smile.


    Edward Stephens, her Edward, who grew up with her, lived and died for her, the young man who would never leave her behind.


    Daisy Ginger curled into a circle, not knowing why her heart ached so intensely; she cried uncontrobly. As the photos froze on thest one, the young man stood in the sunset, waving and smiling at her, the screen gradually dimmed, and the room lights came on.


    Ian Linton spoke softly, "Director Ginger, do you understand now, how terribly wrong you were?"


    "..."


    "I always thought, how could I allow you to marry this man now? How he humiliates you, hurts you, even despises you. If it were the Edward of the past, he would never have treated you like that."


    "..."


    "The treasure I hold dear and look up to, how could it be tarnished by that man..." Ian Linton looked at her, with some pity, yet some hidden anger, he spoke quietly, "I thought after he abandoned you a few times, you woulde to your senses, realize he is no longer worth your affection. But Daisy Ginger, why do you degrade yourself? You¡¯ve truly... disappointed me."


    Daisy Ginger closed her eyes and spoke faintly, "You said so much, just because I no longer meet your perfect imagination."


    "You think that because I¡¯m hurt, I should let go; you think because Edward changed, I shouldn¡¯t love him; you think, you think, you think." She opened her eyes,ughed angrily, "Who the hell are you to think?"


    Nagging a whole bunch, isn¡¯t it just wanting to split her and Edward Stephens up?

 Chapter 188: A cold kiss falls on her brow.

    <h4>Chapter 188: Chapter 188: A cold kiss falls on her brow.</h4>


    Because she had been crying, her voice remained hoarse.


    But due to anger, her eyes were exceptionally bright.


    Ian Linton gazed at her seemingly radiant eyes, somewhat enthralled, then slowly withdrew his gaze and softly said, "Director Ginger... you still remain so stubborn."


    He walked over, suddenly taking out a peculiar item from the drawer.


    Standing by the bedside, he looked down at her, "Do you know about desensitization therapy?"


    Daisy Ginger furrowed her eyebrows slightly, cautious of making a sound. She warily observed the strange item in Ian Linton¡¯s hand, instinctively feeling it was not something good.


    "Do you know?" He slowly bent down, his fingers suddenly sping her left ankle, the tips of his fingers cold like a snake¡¯s skincking warmth. Daisy Ginger¡¯s skin erupted in goosebumps, she jerked forcefully but was still held tight, and was abruptly pulled toward him.


    "Ian Linton!" she screamed in fright, then felt something soft and leathery wrapping around her ankle. In disbelief, she looked down, seeing her ankle bound by a ck leather strap Ian Linton had used. With a "click," a small silver lock tightened the gap, her leg became bound to the chain extending from the bedpost.


    "What are you trying to do?!" Daisy Ginger asked him sharply, her eyes filled with vignce and concealed fury. The man stood by the bed, pulled another chain from the headboard, and said ndly, "I just don¡¯t want you to get hurt."


    No matter how much Daisy Ginger struggled, she was unable to resist the man¡¯s strength. Soon, she was seated at the head of the bed, bound hand and foot by Ian Linton with the chain.


    Except for the injured leg, Ian Linton left it untouched. Afterpleting all this, he lowered his head, eyes darkly fixating on the disheveled, furious Daisy Ginger.


    She resembled a provoked, angry little beast, ring at him, her gaze fiery.


    "I don¡¯t have much time left." He sighed lowly and said, "What I can do for you, goes only to this extent."


    "Are you sick!" She struggled, causing the chains to tter, "Unlock me!"


    This humiliating position, she had never endured in her lifetime.


    Now, she felt no shred of sympathy for him, nor any thought of awsuit! She only wanted to dismember this psychopath!


    "Director Ginger," Ian Linton suddenly said, "Do you know how many milliamps the safe current for the human body is?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger widened her eyes, staring at him dead in the eyes. Even though nothing had happened, she involuntarily shuddered.


    Ian Linton ced the ck object he had been holding onto the bedside table, attached the electrodes, then said to Daisy Ginger, "It¡¯s ten milliamps."


    "Actually, all along, electric shocks have shown significant therapeutic effects in medicine for psychiatric disorders." His tone was unhurried, like a benevolent teacher giving earnest advice to a student, "It can correct many of your bad habits, rectify your mistakes, make you fearmitting errors again."


    He held Daisy Ginger¡¯s shoulder, cing an electrode on her temple.


    Daisy Ginger was about to go insane.


    She regretted the fleeting moment of sympathy she had felt for Ian Linton earlier; this man deserved death! What does he want to do to her?!


    In her extreme fear, he attached another electrode to the other side of her temple.


    Then, a cold kiss fell onto her brow.

 Chapter 189: Edward Stephens, I was bullied

    <h4>Chapter 189: Chapter 189: Edward Stephens, I was bullied</h4>


    In her extreme fear, he attached another electrode to her other temple.


    Then, a cold kissnded on her brow.


    "Do you know about treating homosexuality and inte addiction?" he said softly, his dark eyes like ck voids, eerily reflecting inorganic light. Ian Linton said, "I¡¯ve already had someone test it on you. You won¡¯t be hurt, only a bit painful."


    "That device can detect your emotional fluctuations. Once your emotions surge, it releases a ten milliamp current until you see him, and you won¡¯t dare to feel for him again."


    The screen lit up again; it was a photo of Edward Stephens. Somewhere a speaker sounded, "Daisy Ginger." That familiar voice softly called her name.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s heart skipped slightly, then an unbearable pain drilled from her temple into her brain. She screamed "Ah!" sharply, her mind went nk, and her limbs convulsed uncontrobly.


    When she came to, she didn¡¯t know how much time had passed; only Ian Linton stood there, staring deeply at her miserable state with downcast eyes.


    Saliva, tears, sweat, mixed together; like a lunatic who lost control of her body, she struggled and twisted on the bed, her dignity shredded into pieces.


    Breathing heavily, she opened her eyes, her gaze sharp, meeting Ian Linton¡¯s eyes.


    Her eyes held anger and hatred, like a murderous intent sharp enough to y someone alive.


    Despite being so pitiful, she still seemed dazzling and radiant like a diamond.


    Ian Linton stared at her steadily for a long time before taking a deep breath and said to Daisy Ginger, "I¡¯ll check on you again in an hour."


    After speaking, he walked away firmly, without looking back, leaving the entire dark space to Daisy Ginger.


    The room door closed, the room quieted down, and Edward Stephens¡¯ voice gently resounded in the speakers, calling her name: "Daisy Ginger."


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhh¡ª¡ª"


    So painful, so painful, so painful, so painful, so painful, so painful, so painful, pain so overwhelming that the whole person is left with only the feeling of "pain", pain so much that just to escape this agony, anything can be promised... But, how could it be possible that the pain would stop her feelings for him?


    How could it be possible that the pain would stop her love for him?


    She copsed on the bed, peering through her sweat-drenched long hair, at the photo on the screen.


    Not far away, Edward Stephens was standing there, looking at her with a faint smile.


    The current started again, stimting her brain, her mind nk, trembling uncontrobly, like asking for help, like that fleeting phantom, she slowly raised her hand...


    Edward Stephens, I¡¯m being bullied, when will youe for me?


    *


    In the darkness, the man suddenly opened his eyes.


    An onset of palpitations emerged from his heart and surged upward. He took a deep breath and looked at the buzzing phone on the bedside. As soon as his gaze touched the caller disy, he immediately sat up and reached out to get the phone.


    "Mr. Edward, we investigated and found Ian Linton once forged a false identity, bought an ind 800 kilometers away from Goldsand Beach in Banyan City. We¡¯ve contacted a private satellite to scan the ind and found a vi on it."


    "We suspect..."


    Edward Stephens threw off the covers and got out of bed, his voice was calm and cold: "Prepare the yacht, I¡¯ming over immediately."

 Chapter 190 He Can’t Wait Even for a Minute

    <h4>Chapter 190: Chapter 190 He Can¡¯t Wait Even for a Minute</h4>


    Two hourster, Edward Stephens drove to Goldsand Beach Dock.


    A few tall Western men in windbreakers stood by the coast. Seeing the ck Bentley stop, they walked over from the dock.


    "Mr. Stephens," they addressed him in English, "The yacht is ready, the police can be here in half an hour."


    Edward stood at the edge of the coast, raised his head to look at the distant pitch-ck ocean horizon. The night was dark, the winds strong, cold sea winds lifted the hem of his clothes. His cold, sharp eyes looked towards the direction of the small ind, the cigarette mped between his fingers flickered in the sea breeze. For a moment, he crushed the cigarette and threw it on the ground, speaking: "We¡¯ll go first, no more waiting."


    It¡¯s been almost four days, and he had no idea how Daisy Ginger was doing now, or if she was even on that ind.


    He only knew, he couldn¡¯t afford to wait even a minute.


    *


    On the coastline, a streak of golden light peeked from under the sea horizon. It was as if a golden sun was hidden on the dark ocean surface.


    In an instant, half the coast was tinted with wine-red, the seawater seemed to transform into some kind of transparent creature, surging waves spreading the glow into the distance.


    Ian Linton stood by the window, watching the sunrise for a while, then turned around, walking with light, slow steps towards a bedroom door.


    He stood at the door, ncing down at the time, and as the second hand passed twelve, reached out to push the door open.


    The bedroom remained suffocating, curtains tightly drawn, no light prating in, cloaking the room¡¯s secrets.


    Ian walked over, turned on the light, went to the bedside, poured water into a clear ss, then softly said to the curled-up figure in bed, "Director Ginger, get up for some water."


    The person slumped on the bed heard the voice and trembled slightly.


    She looked as if she had been dragged out from water, her clothes soaked by sweat, strands of hair stuck to her face. Due to severe dehydration, her lips chapped and pale. Overnight, she seemed to have lost several pounds, her entire being withered.


    Upon hearing Ian¡¯s voice, Daisy Ginger slowly opened her eyes, overwhelmed by her suffering for too long, she couldn¡¯t even distinguish his voice from Edward Stephens¡¯ anymore, only knowing that whenever there was a sound in the room, the current coursed through her leading her into a pit of agony.


    Before her senses could return, her flesh began to tremble first. She slowly retreated, backing into the corner, only then clenching her teeth, raising her head from her tangled, damp hair, looking at the man standing by the bed.


    She had shed so many tears that she felt her vision begin to blur. Ian¡¯s face appeared indistinct in the dim, shaky light, covered by an illusory mist.


    "Get out."


    Her voice raspy, she could hardly speak properly, only left with a breathy sound.


    Ian stood by the bed, impably dressed, watching her despair. He whispered softly, "Director Ginger, it¡¯s not dawn yet. If you don¡¯t drink water, you won¡¯tst."


    Daisy Ginger trembled uncontrobly, her slight shaking caused the chains on her body to ng lightly in the room, producing faint and fragmented sounds.


    Ever since he locked her here, she had to endure an hour-long electric shock every fifteen minutes. No matter how hard she tried to struggle, the electrodes wouldn¡¯t fall off her body, forcing her to endure the full hour!

 Chapter 191: The Whole Truth

    <h4>Chapter 191: Chapter 191: The Whole Truth</h4>


    In the entire enclosed room, only the photos of Edward Stephens and his voice surrounded her, making her feel scared whenever she saw his photos or heard his voice!


    Humans are such animals that instinctively seek advantage and avoid harm. Even when her brain hadn¡¯t reacted yet, her instincts had already begun rejecting everything about Edward Stephens.


    She feared the pain, feared the flutter he brought to her heart, a torment that could drive a normal person insane.


    Daisy Ginger gritted her teeth, looking at the seemingly righteous man not far away. He lowered his eyes and looked at her, as elegant and refined as ever, gentle and polite.


    "What did you do to Emily Ginger?"


    Ian Linton chuckled, "I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about."


    "You said you had someone tested," Daisy red at him, "was that person Emily Ginger?"


    "I admire that you can still think in this situation." Ian Linton smiled, cing a water cup on the bedside table, and slowly sat down at the bed¡¯s edge. His posture was graceful, his tone nonchnt, "You¡¯re not wrong in guessing. I experimented on Emily Ginger first. Otherwise, how would I dare try it on you?"


    So it was true, indeed it was true...


    Daisy¡¯s lips trembled slightly. She recalled that rainy night, Emily Ginger stood soaking in despair at her door, asking Edward Stephens for help. Surely, that was herst attempt to muster up courage to resist Ian Linton, but she was brutally turned away...


    "Why?" Tears unknowingly streamed from her eyes as she hoarsely questioned, "Hurting me alone is enough, why hurt others too?! What did she do wrong to you that you have to drive her insane?!"


    Ian Linton¡¯s expression remained indifferent, "She knew well that you liked Edward Stephens, yet insisted onpeting with you. Isn¡¯t that her fault? I told you, anyone who harms you, I¡¯ll take care of them for you. If anything, she was lucky to be of some use to you in the end."


    This person, always iming to love her, yet repeatedly finding ways to hurt her the most.


    If it weren¡¯t for his interference, Emily Ginger wouldn¡¯t have gone mad, and her conflict with Edward Stephens wouldn¡¯t have been so severe. Having done such terrible things, he still considers this "love" to this day.


    "Madman." She murmured, "Ian Linton, you¡¯re truly insane."


    Merely because Emily Ginger hadpeted with her for Edward Stephens, he wanted to ruin her life.


    Even when she developed schizophrenia because of him, he wore a look of self-inflicted consequences.


    The one who should be locked in a mental institution for life, never to be released, is this man in front of her.


    He¡¯s the one who truly belongs in a mental institution!


    "She carries your child," Daisy whispered, "Ian Linton, how can you bear it?"


    "Without giving her a taste of sweetness, how would she peacefully apany me in the experiment?" He let out a lowugh, lifting his head to look at Daisy¡¯s dejected state, "To talk about this matter is quite interesting. Although electricity doesn¡¯t leave a mark on the human body, if she had just chosen to break the engagement with me, there wouldn¡¯t be anything I could do. Unfortunately, your stepmother didn¡¯t want that..."


    He spoke with a hint of mockery,menting on Emily Ginger¡¯s situation, and said to Daisy faintly, "Before she came to you, she had sought out Abigail Perry several times, hadn¡¯t she? Unfortunately, Abigail Perry couldn¡¯t bear to let her break the engagement with me." He propped his face with one hand, looking at Daisy, his smile gentle like a spring breeze, "I heard that Abigail Perry now stays by her side in the hospital and can¡¯t bring herself to leave, yet Emily Ginger doesn¡¯t even want her toe close. Tell me, haven¡¯t those two women both received theireuppance now?"

 Chapter 192: The Golden House to Keep the Beauty

    <h4>Chapter 192: Chapter 192: The Golden House to Keep the Beauty</h4>


    Daisy Ginger understood everything.


    She said nkly, "Is this what you did for me?"


    Abigail Perry plotted against her, so he made her separated from her loved ones?


    Emily Gingerpeted with her for Edward Stephens, so he drove her insane and suicidal?


    Such cruelty, yet he wascent.


    Under the guise of "for her own good," he used a borrowed knife to kill, and even now, showed no remorse.


    And what about Edward Stephens?


    "What do you intend to do to Edward Stephens?" Daisy forced herself up, looked at Ian Linton, hoarsely asking, "What do you want to do to him?"


    She knew he wouldn¡¯t let him go.


    This man, even if a madman, was one so well-disguised as a normal person; he¡¯s not only adept at pretense but also smart, and he wouldn¡¯t have kidnapped her without full confidence.


    He harmed everyone around her, even spared not herself, this madman actually dared to say he loved her.


    Daisy genuinely wished for lightning to strike down this lunatic right now, to spare her the disgust he brings whenever in her presence!


    Upon hearing this, Ian Linton¡¯s cold gaze turned increasingly frosty, rising from the sofa, he looked at her icily, saying, "Director Ginger, you¡¯re still delusional even now."


    "Fifteen minutes are almost up; I think you need some more treatment." He walked over pulling her from the corner, squeezed her face, forcibly pouring the cup of water into her mouth, then released her, watching her slump on the bed, feebly trembling and coughing.


    Ian¡¯s gaze fell upon the disheveled Daisy; now, she looked pathetic, far from her previously radiant and dazzling self.


    His eyes gradually became overcast, his expression darkened.


    Daisy looked up, meeting Ian¡¯s gaze, and she shuddered.


    Ian¡¯s eyes looking at her, carried a trace of malevolence. Those dark eyes seemed to harbor intense hatred, as if she were some enemy of his.


    This isn¡¯t love; it¡¯s outright hatred, wishing to kill her...


    Daisy gazed at him unwaveringly, then gave him a taunting sneer of provocation.


    Ian slowly withdrew his gaze, the malice in his eyes dissipated, returning to normal, lightly caressing her cold, dry cheek, then turned and left expressionlessly.


    The door gradually closed, and the room returned to darkness.


    Daisyy on the bed, closed her eyes, silently awaiting the start of this endless torment.


    She didn¡¯t know when she might be rescued, or if she¡¯d still be sane when leaving here, or end up like Emily Ginger, driven mad by him...


    *


    Eight hourster, when Edward Stephens sailed the yacht to the ind, dawn had already broken.


    He docked at the shore, standing up from the yacht, looking at the magnificent new mansion before him.


    The ind was only as big as three ordinary basketball courts, yet this mansion upied two-thirds of the space, like a delicate birdcage.


    Edward narrowed his eyes, thinking of four words¡ª"golden house to hide a beauty."


    The few European and American men who came with him had been left behind, needing about ten more minutes to catch up; meanwhile, the police had radioed him, advising caution.

 Chapter 193: Came Back to Life.

    <h4>Chapter 193: Chapter 193: Came Back to Life.</h4>


    The official personnel always act with extreme caution, only making a move when fully confident, but he cannot wait another minute.


    Daisy Ginger is here; his intuition tells him that Ian Linton has run out of ces to hide her, and except for this small ind in the sea, he has no other ce to conceal Daisy Ginger.


    Edward Stephens went ashore and walked straight towards the vi door.


    The luxurious and exquisite vi hall unfolded before him.


    The air was filled with a faint scent of roses, the perfume Daisy Ginger regrly uses. He narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at the entrance for a few seconds before stepping into the hall.


    The vi¡¯s interior was warmly decorated, even faintly styled like Daisy Ginger¡¯s vi; on the crystal coffee table, a few fresh purple roses were ced in an Italian-style vase. Edward Stephens raised his hand to gently touch the petals, noticeably feeling that they had just been picked.


    Someone lives here.


    He looked around but saw no one, so he calmly withdrew his gaze and headed to the vi¡¯s second floor.


    He wasn¡¯t afraid of Ian Lintonying a trap here, or perhaps he even hoped Ian would make a move on him. He couldn¡¯t wait to beat this guy to a pulp.


    As various bloody scenes swirled in his mind, he cautiously walked upstairs, his footsteps so light that barely any sound was made.


    Quickly, he reached the second floor.


    Standing at the stairway, he looked forward to see several guest rooms; he furrowed his brow, not in the mood to search each one. So, he stood at the opening and spoke: "Ian Linton, stop hiding. Your actions have been exposed, the police will soon surround this ind. Don¡¯t waste time ying hide and seek, it¡¯s too tedious."


    The vi was too quiet, and with his words, the wind seemed to carry them through the entire building instantly.


    It was silent, even creating echoes.


    Edward Stephens paused for a moment, not hearing any response, clicked his tongue lightly, took out a cigarette and was about to light it when he heard faint human soundsing from the bedroom three meters away.


    The man froze momentarily, quickly sprinting towards the bedroom; he pushed the door open and his pupils contracted violently for a moment upon seeing the woman on the bed: "Daisy Ginger!"


    Daisy Ginger was tied up on the bed,pletely disheveled, the broken leg twisted at an odd angle with blood seeping through the white bandage wrapped around it. Her mouth was covered with transparent tape and her eyes were blindfolded, making muffled sounds of agony.


    He hadn¡¯t seen her for four whole days; previously, he didn¡¯t think four days were long, but seeing her alive in front of him now, Edward Stephens felt a wave of unprecedented relief spreading from his limbs and bones, all the fatigue, muscle soreness, heart mise, and nerve pains he had been enduring seemed to return to him all at once.


    He¡¯s alive.


    He took a breath, quickly walked in, lifted her from the bed, and held her in his arms as he removed her blindfold.


    Daisy Ginger was covered in cold sweat; upon seeing the light again and Edward Stephens, her eyes were full of terror, making muffled noises from her mouth. Edward, noticing her strange demeanor, thought she had been psychologically tormented by Ian Linton¡¯s abuse these days. As he was about to tear off the tape over her lips, he suddenly sensed something, blocking her carotid artery with his fingers. His palm cooled, a sharp de sliced through his flesh, and blood sttered instantly.


    *


    Please vote for rmendation.

 Chapter 194: Be good, don’t be afraid

    <h4>Chapter 194: Chapter 194: Be good, don¡¯t be afraid</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was stunned for a moment, seeing the blood on Edward Stephens¡¯ hand suddenly drench his entire wrist. Her eyes were wide with rage, struggling frantically.


    Edward Stephens kicked back, the de stuck in his knuckles, unable to pull it out. The person quickly abandoned the knife and retreated, letting out a quiet chuckle.


    Edward Stephens turned around, shielding Daisy Ginger behind him, and looked up towards Ian Linton standing not far away.


    He was as usual in a white shirt and ck pants, clean and tidy. His face had a gentle and refined expression, no different from when they first met, except the back of his fair hand was stained with the blood that had sttered from his palm. That bit of blood lent a murderous aura to his gentleness.


    "Daisy," Edward Stephens looked at Ian Linton, but his voice was directed at Daisy Ginger, "I¡¯m fine, calm down."


    Daisy Ginger stared fixedly at his palm, tears had already fallen from her eyes; she never wanted to see him get hurt for her again...


    "I¡¯m fine." Edward Stephens tore his shirt, ripping off a piece from the hem, and quickly wrapped it around the wound, "This small injury will be fine in a few days. I don¡¯t scar easily, don¡¯t worry."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s chest heaved violently as she suppressed her sobs; her struggles gradually quieted down. In the room, the subtle clinking of chains gradually fell into silence, reced only by the constant surging sound of waves rolling in from not far away.


    "The police will be here soon." Edward Stephens looked at Ian Linton, his gaze concealed a sharp killing intent like a de, "You can¡¯t escape."


    Ian Lintonughed lightly, took a step back, wiping the blood off the back of his hand, seemingly with extreme disgust. "Young Master Edward, you alwayse sooner than I anticipated."


    Edward Stephens ignored his words, looking at Ian Linton, he asked, "Why did you hurt her?"


    "I hurt her?" Ian Linton sounded as if he¡¯d heard a very funny joke, letting out a quietugh, "I¡¯m doing what¡¯s best for her, she¡¯ll know eventually. The one who hurt her is you, Edward Stephens, see what you¡¯ve done to her since you came back?!"


    Edward Stephens nced at Daisy Ginger out of the corner of his eye, his expression calm as he observed Ian Linton¡¯s expression and said, "You¡¯re crazy."


    Poisoning Ervin Osteen, then causing a car ident to kidnap Daisy Ginger, holding her captive here, causing a citywide uproar, and yet believes he¡¯s doing her good.


    This person is not mentally stable.


    "I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m crazy, but I know, you deserve to die the most." Ian Linton said thest word, his tone already tinged with resentment, his refined face showed a slight twist, stressing each word, "If I kill you, she will be free. Edward Stephens, turning into this, you¡¯d be better off having died eight years ago."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ expression remained unchanged, he lifted his chin slightly, "Bring it on."


    He wanted to see how this man nned to kill him.


    "Young Master Edward, don¡¯t you know what the electrodes stuck on her temple are for?" Ian Linton suddenlyughed lowly, with a somewhat sinister and treacherous tone. He opened his hand, showing the button he held in his palm, "If I just press it¡ª¡ª"


    A painful cry suddenly came from behind Daisy Ginger!


    Edward Stephens¡¯plexion changed, his whole body¡¯s muscles tensed up.


    "¡ª¡ªit will continuously emit electric currents, stimting the brain... it¡¯s very painful, I tried it, couldn¡¯t endure it at all." Ian Linton cruellyughed at him, taking out a trident knife from his pocket, pointing it at Edward Stephens, "What will you do, Young Master Edward? If you dare turn around, I¡¯ll kill you. We are so close, you can¡¯t dodge my attack."


    Edward Stephens nced at him, without hesitation turned around, pulling the convulsing Daisy Ginger into his arms, he tore off the electrodes stuck to her temple.


    God knows how many times she had endured this torture; when he pulled off the electrodes that were stuck extremely firmly with his hand, patches of her skin were torn and peeled off, showing a scorched and carbonized hue.


    Hepleted this action in just one second, during a sh of lightning between heaven and earth, Ian Linton had already lunged towards him. He was about to raise his hand to block his attack, but saw Ian make a low move, dodging his fist, stabbing towards Daisy Ginger¡¯s fragile neck in his arms!


    He was actually here to kill Daisy Ginger!


    Edward Stephens¡¯ pupils contracted violently for a moment, and the fist he swung out was already irretrievable. With his other hand holding Daisy Ginger, instinctively, he lunged forward, pressing Daisy Ginger down onto the bed. With a "squeak," the trident knife in Ian Linton¡¯s hand stabbed into his back.


    The severe pain put a veil of blood mist over his eyes, the de didn¡¯t stop at all, nearly piercing his back and chest through. If he hadn¡¯t blocked the knife, Ian Linton¡¯s move could almost have sliced Daisy Ginger¡¯s entire neck!


    Ian Linton slowly pulled out the knife, standing behind him with a quietugh. He whispered, "Young Master Edward, how can you still be as stupid as eight years ago? Making the same mistake?"


    The trident knife had carved two holes straight in his body. Edward Stephens had seen the bleeding power of this kind of knife, knowing that even pressing the wound couldn¡¯t stop the blood loss, so he simply ignored it. He slowly sat up from the bed, looked at Ian Linton not far away, and asked, "What did Ervin Osteen say to you?"


    "Not much." Ian Linton¡¯s slender fingers yed with the knife de, calmly saying, "Just some details from eight years ago. I didn¡¯t expect that you would fall for the same trick twice."


    Edward Stephens squinted his eyes: "You really want to kill her."


    Ian Linton¡¯s eyes flickered slightly, his gaze fell on Daisy Ginger and then withdrew, he replied lightly and seriously, "It¡¯s better for her to die than to live alone in submission under your shadow."


    "She is not your toy," Edward Stephens said, "You have no right to dictate how she falls for someone."


    In the air, the sound of helicopter rotors was heard¡ªit was the police helicopter arriving.


    Ian Linton fell silent, he nced at the two people opposite, then dropped the knife in his hand, and slowly walked out of the room.


    Edward Stephens turned around, looking at Daisy Ginger shaking uncontrobly on the bed, her face pale.


    His gaze softened, lifting his blood-stained hand, gently caressed her face, and then tore off the clear tape on her mouth, softly saying, "Be good, don¡¯t be afraid."


    Sticky blood flowed down from his lips. Daisy Ginger was too scared to utter a sound, her mind was nk, her hands locked, unable to wipe the blood flowing from the corner of his lips; her eyes were like two ss marbles frozen solid, not daring to even look at the blood continuously and turbulently flowing from his body...


    Until Edward Stephens slowly, copsed, gradually falling onto her body.

 Chapter 195 She Lost Edward Stephens Again

    <h4>Chapter 195: Chapter 195 She Lost Edward Stephens Again</h4>


    Until Edward Stephens slowly, limply, copsed onto her.


    ...


    She felt everything around her slow down, the information received by her brain was like frames of filtered photos; she couldn¡¯t feel the wind blowing past, nor hear the urgent footsteps outside the door, she couldn¡¯t even sense the weight of Edward Stephens¡¯ warm body copsing onto her...


    "Tick..."


    "Tick..."


    "Tick..."


    The thick dripping sound, like a scene in a movie deliberately stretched and slowed, gradually and slowly yet clearly reached her eardrum.


    Eight years ago...


    Eight yearster...


    Drive her insane while she¡¯s alive...


    The deepest nightmare in her memories fused into the most terrifying reality, a reality more frightening than a nightmare.


    ...


    "The suspect is here!"


    "The hostage! The hostage has been found!"


    "Call the doctor up here quickly! Someone needs first aid!"


    "Hurry! Hurry!"


    ...


    Daisy Ginger heard the sound of people rushing in from outside the door, but she couldn¡¯t see anything, someone came over to release the chains cuffed to her hands and feet, she instinctively hugged the now gradually cooling body of the man on her, tightly gripping hispel, subconsciously believing that as long as she held onto him like this, he wouldn¡¯t leave her again.


    "Miss Ginger, we need to perform first aid on Mr. Stephens! Please let go!"


    "Miss Ginger!"


    Daisy couldn¡¯t hear them, she only felt someone pulling at her, trying to separate her from Edward Stephens; a beast-like growl emerged from her throat as she screamed, "Don¡¯te near!!!"


    Everyone wanted to separate them, everyone! He obviously loved her so much, he had been hurt so many times for her, he had desperately saved her so many times! Why say he harmed her! Why separate them! Why drive them apart!


    Why did he have to die, clearly... she had only him now, her only remaining love in the world... Why must she be left alone, was she not worth being loved...


    Daisy struggled up, holding onto Edward Stephens, unable to see anyone else, she felt as if everyone and everything approaching them were trying to separate them.


    She wanted to find a ce to hide, just the two of them, Edward and her, she didn¡¯t want to wait for him anymore, she was tired of waiting, this time, she wanted to leave with him.


    All the thoughts in her head were chaotic, nothing but instinct remained, she rejected everyone approaching, the blood flowing from the man¡¯s bodypletely dyed her red as well; she appeared maddened, looking more insane than a madman.


    To prevent her from further harming Edward Stephens, the doctor had no choice but to call people to restrain her and inject her with a sedative.


    "No, no, no!" She felt her strength drain away in an instant, she couldn¡¯t hold onto the man¡¯s clothes anymore, even with the sedative injection, she erupted with unbelievable strength, the two nurses couldn¡¯t restrain her.


    "Give him back to me! Give him back! Where are you taking him!" She screamed like a madwoman, forcing the doctor to inject her with sedatives once more, and finally, with two doses of sedative injected into her artery, Daisy Ginger lost all strength.


    Shey limp on the bed, staring nkly at the ceiling, she felt dizzy, but more than that, she experienced an indescribable fear and despair.


    Once again, she had lost him...


    She lost Edward Stephens again...


    She lost Edward Stephens again...


    ...

 Chapter 196 Three Days Later

    <h4>Chapter 196: Chapter 196 Three Days Later</h4>


    Daisy Ginger woke up from her sleep, already three dayster.


    She had been in a deep sleep for a long time, and when she woke up, her mind was hazy, as if covered by a thin transparent membrane, with sounds and smellsing through, all blurry.


    "Wuwuwuwuwu..."


    Someone was crying beside her ear.


    It was noisy and gave her a slight headache.


    She tried to open her eyes but felt like her eyelids were glued shut. Her eyshes fluttered, but she couldn¡¯t open them.


    "Daisy..." the woman cried, "Wuwuwu... Why hasn¡¯t she woken up yet? Didn¡¯t the doctor say she would wake up today?"


    "You¡¯re mourning," the man beside her said irritably, "If you keep crying, the whole Banyan City will be flooded by you."


    "I¡¯m just upset." The woman¡¯s voice was hoarse, with a nasal tone, "Look at Daisy, she¡¯s lost so much weight, and it¡¯s only been a few days..."


    After speaking, she sobbed quietly again.


    Daisy gingerly exerted all her strength and finally managed to open her eyelids. Sunshine poured in, and she saw Zoe Hilker sitting beside her, holding one of her hands, and Ethan Pond leaning against the window sill with a frown on his face.


    Her mind felt fuzzy, and Daisy shook her head, trying to turn around. Suddenly there was a sharp pain in her right leg, and she let out a low "um," startling the two people.


    "Daisy?!"


    Ethan quickly walked over from the window side, the man¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, looking down at her with concern in his deep ck eyes.


    "You¡¯re awake? Where do you feel ufortable?"


    Zoe Hilker sat at the bedside, her eyes wide like a startled rabbit, clutching her hand tightly. When she saw Daisy open her eyes, tears streamed down her face, she sobbed and couldn¡¯t speak: "Daisy... Wuwuwu."


    Daisy¡¯s fingers gently moved, reassuring Zoe by curling them a few times in her palm, then with a dry voice, she softly asked, "How many days have I slept?"


    "Three days," Zoe whimpered, "Like you were dead, you scared me to death."


    "Shut up." Ethan unhappily gave her head a firm pat, "Gloomy talk." He turned to Daisy, exining, "You exhausted yourself too much, the doctor said you need sleep to replenish your energy. If you feel ufortable somewhere, I¡¯ll call the doctor."


    Daisy had a leg fracture, which wasn¡¯t connected in time, hence they broke it again for surgery, but she hadn¡¯t suffered many external injuries.


    She had been kidnapped, experiencing severe mental stress, and needed hospitalization to observe her emotional state.


    Daisy slowly blinked, looking around.


    Her dark eyes moved very slowly, her long eyshes remained still, like a newborn baby, scrutinizing the surrounding environment.


    After a while, she said softly, "I¡¯m a bit thirsty." Licking her dry lips, Daisy gently made a request, "Lying here is a bit tiring, can you help me turn over."


    "Alright."


    Zoe Hilker immediately turned around to pour her a cup of warm water, using a straw to bring it to her lips. After Daisy drank a few sips, she and Ethan helped Daisy turn over.


    The stiff muscles on her back rxed, she let out a slow breath, closed her eyes whileying on her side.


    "I¡¯m okay now," Daisy said, "I¡¯ll sleep a bit more."


    Zoe Hilker and Ethan stayed by the bedside, watching Daisyfortably close her eyes, looking like she was about to fall back asleep.


    Zoe Hilker blinked her pretty big eyes and suddenly asked, "Daisy, is there really nothing else going on?"

 Chapter 197: She Is Not Normal

    <h4>Chapter 197: Chapter 197: She Is Not Normal</h4>


    Daisy opened her eyes, a gentle smile appearing on her pale face as usual, and she asked with a lightugh, "What could a patient like me possibly have to worry about?"


    "Think about it again, maybe there¡¯s something else you haven¡¯t..."


    Standing behind her, Ethan tugged at her wrist slightly.


    Zoe Hilker fell silent immediately, and Ethan stepped forward, smoothing the corner of Daisy¡¯s nket and said gently, "Just sleep for a bit. Zoe and I will be right outside; call us if you need anything."


    Daisy buried half her face in the nket, only her beautiful eyes showing, and she nodded, obediently closing her eyes.


    Ethan nced at her a few times, then reached out to pull Zoe Hilker out of the room.


    *


    Outside the VIP corridor, it was very quiet.


    Zoe Hilker sat crouched against the wall, hugging her legs, her face buried in her knees, her xen, fluffy long hair cascading down and covering her slender back.


    "Ethan," Zoe said softly, "don¡¯t you think Daisy has been acting a bit strange since she woke up?"


    Ethan twirled a cigarette between his fingers but didn¡¯t light it. Hearing her words, his handsome eyes turned contemtive, and he fell silent for a moment.


    They had all grown up together with Daisy and could immediately notice even the slightest oddity among each other. At the moment, though Daisy appeared calm andposed, both Ethan and Zoe noticed her subtle abnormalities.


    Zoe couldn¡¯t help but say, "She didn¡¯t mention Edward," she bit her lip, furrowing her brow, "How could she not mention him?"


    From the time Daisy woke up until she drifted back to sleep, it was really only about ten minutes.


    But Zoe knew that if it were the ordinary Daisy, she¡¯d definitely be looking for Edward the moment she woke up.


    Yet now, she¡¯d just taken a sip of water, turned over, and fallen back asleep, without even mentioning Edward¡¯s name once.


    Even after being reminded multiple times, she still didn¡¯t think of Edward.


    "This isn¡¯t normal at all," Zoe said softly, "In the past, the first thing she¡¯d do upon waking would be to go looking for Edward..."


    He was the person she loved most, the name she would mention with every breath. How could she not bring him up after experiencing something so terrifying together?


    Zoe held her head in her hands, taking a frustrated deep breath, standing up from the floor, "No, I need to get a doctor to perform a CT scan on her brain; there¡¯s probably something they missed checking..."


    "Now is not the time to focus on that issue."


    Ethan suddenly said.


    He finally lit the cigarette that had been between his fingers, took a deep drag, furrowing his brow as he asked in a raspy voice, "Even if she wants to see him, how can they possibly meet?"


    "..." Zoe paused, looked up at Ethan, then lowered her head in sorrow.


    "...Once that guy¡¯s out of ICU, we can let him go see her personally," Ethan said.


    But everyone knew that whether Edward could leave the ICU was still uncertain.


    The dagger had pierced right through his chest and back, nearly draining his blood.


    It was thanks to modern medical advancements that he was pulled back from the brink of death after a day¡¯s and night¡¯s fight for his life. Now Edwardy unconscious in the ICU.


    He might wake up tomorrow, or he might just die.


    How could such an Edward meet Daisy now?

 Chapter 198 She Is Unusual 2

    <h4>Chapter 198: Chapter 198 She Is Unusual 2</h4>


    Zoe Hilker hugged her legs, burying her face in them and started sobbing quietly.


    "It¡¯s too much..." She cried so hard that her shoulders were trembling, "Daisy hasn¡¯t done anything wrong, why treat her like this..."


    Eight years ago, Edward Stephens risked his life to save her.


    Eight yearster, Edward was on the verge of danger once again because of her.


    If Edward doesn¡¯te out of this, she¡¯s afraid Daisy wouldn¡¯t be able to survive either.


    Ethan Pond saw that she had lost a lot of weight these past few days, he sighed softly, walked over to her side, and gently rubbed her fluffy long hair.


    *


    Daisy Ginger slept for a whole day and night.


    When she woke up, it was the evening of the next day.


    Ethan Pond was by her side. Seeing her awake, he spoke in a deep voice, "Awake?"


    Daisy braced herself and got out of the nket. Her right leg was in a cast, suspended high, and sitting up was not easy. Ethan walked over, reached out and helped her up so she could lean on the headboard.


    "Have a cup of milk first." Ethan poured her a cup of warm milk and handed it to her, "I told Zoe to go home and rest. That girl stayed with you for four days and couldn¡¯t hold on any longer."


    Daisy reached out for the milk, a faint smile appeared on her pale face, "You haven¡¯t rested properly either, have you? I¡¯ll sleep alone tonight, you should go home and rest."


    Ethan watched her drink half a cup of milk and then gently wiped her milk-stained lips with a napkin, saying lightly, "I¡¯ll leave after you fall asleep."


    He took the milk cup from her hand and ced it on the bedside table, then turned and sat on the sofa not far away, speaking to Daisy about Ian Linton¡¯s situation.


    "Ian has been detained, and the Linton family is requesting mental health experts to conduct a psychiatric evaluation. They might be trying to get him out of sentencing by iming mental illness." Ethan leaned against the sofa back, his legs crossed in a rxed posture, but his handsome brows carried a hint of creases.


    He continued, "The kidnapping incident hasn¡¯t been disclosed to the public yet. If we want a severe sentence, we¡¯ll need to leverage public opinion."


    Daisy leaned against the headboard, her expression calm, seemingly unaffected by Ian Linton¡¯s name.


    She said indifferently, "Maybe he really has a mental problem."


    His actions were unlike those of a normal person.


    "A madman still knows how to frame others?" Ethan sneered, his tone slightly mocking, "He teamed up with Ervin Osteen to kidnap you. The surveince footage showed Ervin driving the car to hit you. Both the police and us were deceived by that footage, thinking Ervin was out for revenge after his release. A lot of manpower and resources were focused on tracking Ervin. If it weren¡¯t for Edward noticing Ian acting suspiciously and going to hispany to find him, you might still be locked up by him."


    Daisy leaned against the headboard, Edward¡¯s name didn¡¯t provoke any reaction. She merely nodded, "Ian is indeed very good at disguising."


    Ethan nced at her, his eyes narrowed slightly, and continued, "But Edward is sharper than the police. Not sure where he found the team, even obtained satellite ess, otherwise you were hidden on the ind by Ian, we¡¯d still spend a considerable amount of time locating you."


    Daisy¡¯s eyes were lowered, her gaze directed downward. Under the bright lights of the room, her face remainedpletely serene. Her delicate and pale face showed no signs of emotional change.

 Chapter 199 You Can Rely on Me a Little

    <h4>Chapter 199: Chapter 199 You Can Rely on Me a Little</h4>


    She asked, "How is Ervin Osteen now?"


    "Killed by Ian Linton."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s shoulders slightly shook, her calm expression finally showing some change. She looked up at Ethan Pond.


    Ethan Pond slightly furrowed his brow, as if contemting whether to tell her the details.


    He said, "Ian Linton injected arsenic into his water. He seemed to trust Ian a lot, didn¡¯t suspect anything, and just drank the water. At the time, we all thought he had poisoned himself andmitted suicide. We couldn¡¯t find you, nearly went crazy with anxiety."


    ...


    [Director Ginger, I can never go back now.]


    Ian Linton¡¯s sighing voice echoed beside her ear.


    She remembered the look in his eyes when he stared at her, beneath the warm amber colory the eyes of a desperate madman.


    But she knew clearly that Ian Linton wasn¡¯t mad. He was lucid the entire time, knowing exactly what he was doing.


    He knew he had killed someone and couldn¡¯t be epted by society, so he rushed to use electric shock topletely brainwash her before the police found her.


    Her lips twitched slightly, revealing a hint of disdainful sneer, "He really cut off all his escape routes."


    Whether the police find Ian Linton crazy or not, he will never appear before her again.


    Either imprisoned or confined to a mental institution, this is how his life will be.


    A nurse brought Daisy Ginger¡¯s dinner, three dishes and soup, all light, with congee as the staple.


    As Daisy Ginger drank her congee, she chatted leisurely with Ethan Pond, "I haven¡¯t been able to go out these days, could you help me check on how Emily Ginger is doing?"


    Ethan Pond leaned back on the sofa, hearing the name his eyes showed indifference, "You¡¯ve been in trouble for so long, her mom hasn¡¯t even asked about you once, why do you care about her?"


    "It¡¯s not rted to Abigail Perry." Daisy said, pausing without further exnation, merely sipping her congee at a slow pace, "...Help me ask around to see if she¡¯s getting any better."


    Ethan Pond: "Alright. I¡¯ll have someone help you ask tomorrow."


    "Is Chloe Brooke still being monitored by the police?"


    Ethan Pond nced at her, "Why do you care about other people¡¯s affairs? Focus on recovering, other things, I and Juju will handle them for you."


    "Ian Linton, under my name, harmed many people." Daisy Ginger sighed, fiddling with the peanuts on her te with chopsticks, "If I don¡¯t do anything, the Brooke family might resent me."


    "You¡¯re a victim too."


    "Not everyone sees things clearly," Daisy Ginger chuckled lightly, her tone casual, "In some people¡¯s eyes, I may already be a femme fatale."


    This society is harsh on women, even if you¡¯ve done nothing, they can find fault with you, not to mention Ian was her admirer.


    Ethan Pond was silent for a while, then nodded, "Alright, I¡¯ll offer your condolences on another day."


    Daisy Ginger put down her chopsticks, smiled at him, "Then I will trouble Ethan."


    Ethan Pond gazed at her face deeply, "If there¡¯s anything else you need, you can tell me all at once."


    Daisy Ginger thought for a moment, then shook her head.


    "..." Ethan Pond stood up from the sofa, walked over to Daisy, and extended his hand towards her.


    "Daisy, I¡¯m already taller than you, you can rely on me a bit." His hand fell on her slender shoulder, such frail shoulders, it was unclear how she bore so many people¡¯s expectations. Ethan Pond¡¯s narrow eyes slightly squinted, looking at Daisy Ginger with a probing intent, asking, "Are you sure there¡¯s nothing else you want me to do?"

 Chapter 200 Not So Good

    <h4>Chapter 200: Chapter 200 Not So Good</h4>


    Daisy Ginger looked up at him, her gaze clear as water, showing no trace of clouds.


    Ethan Pond was defeated under her calm gaze.


    The man let out a slight breath, his dark eyes fixed on her much thinner profile and dull, dry hair. He felt a twinge of pain, but more than that, a sense of helplessness.


    If not for Daisy, he and Zoe Hilker might have been long dead, or even if they had survived, they would not have lived as decently as they do today.


    Her appearance changed the course of his and Zoe¡¯s lives.


    To them, she was their savior.


    He wanted to share her pain, even if just a little.


    But right now, he wasn¡¯t even sure what was wrong with her.


    She seemed so intact now that he dared not pressure her further. Ethan told himself to wait until she was a bit better.


    His hand fell on her hair, "Take good care of yourself."


    Daisy smiled lightly as if it was nothing, "It¡¯s just a fracture, not a big deal."


    Ethan sat down and chatted with her for a while, sticking to light topics. Daisy ate and joked with him, and time passed quickly.


    When Daisy finished eating, she called someone in to tidy up. More than an hour had passed.


    Ethan got up to say goodbye to Daisy. He watched her sleep before slowly leaving the ward.


    He closed the door and stood at the entrance, ncing down at his WeChat.


    Zoe Hilker messaged him, "Is Daisy awake?"


    "She¡¯s asleep now," Ethan replied, "Youe to the hospital to apany her tomorrow, and I¡¯ll take care of the bar."


    Zoe asked again, "Is Daisy feeling better now?"


    Leaning against the wall, the thin fabric of his clothes prated by the cold, Ethan pondered for a while before replying:


    "Not really."


    *


    The sky had grown dark, but the footsteps of nurses and doctors remained busy in the ICU corridor.


    Ethan registered his ID at the entrance and exined his purpose before going in.


    Once inside, it became quiet, isting him from the bustling outside, adding a certain heaviness to the silence.


    Guided by memory, Ethan approached Edward Stephens¡¯ ICU room. From a distance, he saw a frail figure curled up on a bench.


    Recognizing her attire, Ethan identified the woman as Edward¡¯s mother. The thought of this delicate woman keeping vigil outside the ward for three days and three nights softened his steps.


    The corridor was too quiet, yet his footsteps woke Lady Stephens, who was resting her legs on the bench. As she looked up, her vacant gaze met the tattooed, lip-pierced young man, and she instantly became alert, "You are..." She seemed to think for a moment before nodding gently to Ethan, "A friend of Daisy."


    "Auntie," Ethan replied politely, approaching with a warm voice, "Is Edward doing any better?"


    These days, being here seemed to have drained Lady Stephens¡¯st tear. Her eyes were swollen and bloodshot, but hearing Edward¡¯s name no longer brought tears.


    It was only the heavy exhaustion, like thest straw on a camel¡¯s back, that made her tone feeble.


    She tucked away the messy long hair by her ear and nodded, "Today, the doctors said his condition has stabilized... There¡¯s no fatal injury, just excessive blood loss, and he wasn¡¯t brought in time..."

 Chapter 201: Amazing Recovery Ability

    <h4>Chapter 201: Chapter 201: Amazing Recovery Ability</h4>


    It took over an hour to helicopter from the ind to Banyan City Hospital.


    Although the police had arranged for doctors and nurses along the way, it was impossible to have the instruments ready as they would be in a hospital. Only simple bandaging and treatment were done on the helicopter, just barely keeping him alive.


    The de was plunged too deep, almost carving a bleeding channel in Edward Stephens¡¯ body. The doctors exerted tremendous effort to thoroughly stitch up his wound, but ultimately, he lost a great deal of blood.


    By the time he arrived at the hospital, Edward Stephens¡¯ heartbeat was already very weak. He was directly taken to the emergency room for defibrition, which took a whole night to save his life.


    However, although his life was temporarily preserved, his vital signs were too weak. He could only stay in the ICU for constant observation. Whether he would regain consciousness remained a mystery.


    It took Lady Stephens a full hour to rush to the hospital from the time she received the news. She was in utter shock. When Edward was wheeled out of the operating room and sent to the ICU, seeing her son unconscious with an oxygen mask over his face, she finally woke as if from a dream, crying intermittently, calling out "Edward" as she followed the nurse into the ward.


    These days she lived in a daze, not knowing what day it was. Her tears had run dry, and her strength exhausted from crying, yet she did not dare to return home, afraid of missing her son¡¯sst moments.


    She no longer had the strength to feel heartbreak.


    Only a breath kept her going.


    ...


    Ethan Pond looked at the man behind the transparent ss wall plugged into various sophisticated instruments. On the ECG monitor, his heartbeat was very slow.


    Once he gets better, I¡¯ll bring Daisy Ginger over to see him, he pondered, hearing Lady Stephens ask him, "How is Zoe Hilker now?"


    Ethan redirected his gaze toward Lady Stephens.


    He noticed a hint of concern in Lady Stephens¡¯ eyes, which touched him slightly.


    This hint of concern was genuine, not a trace of resentment towards Daisy for Edward¡¯s near-death saving her, even though she hadn¡¯t had the chance to visit Daisy as she guarded Edward¡¯s door.


    "She has woken up today," Ethan said softly, "Her leg bone is fractured, and she cannot move freely. Once she is better, I¡¯ll bring her over to visit Edward."


    "s," Lady Stephens whispered, "Zoe is a child of bitter fate..."


    Ethan gently patted Lady Stephens¡¯ frail shoulder, nced at Edward for a while, then said, "Auntie, take care of your health. Edward will be fine."


    *


    Ethan wasn¡¯t wrong.


    Edward Stephens recovered consciousness after a week in the ICU.


    Soon after, he was transferred to a regr ward.


    His recovery ability was astonishing. Within days of treatment, he could get out of bed and move freely.


    Altogether, it was just half a month.


    When he was no longer in danger, Lady Stephens, who had cared for him for half a month, immediately fell ill with a high fever, and was sent back to the Stephens family for recuperation.


    Ethan told Daisy Ginger about Edward¡¯s situation. Daisy knew but had no particrly strong reaction, nor did she bring up wanting to visit Edward.


    Thepany lost some business, and she still couldn¡¯t be discharged. She managed the business from her hospital room, staying upied with work. Ethan and Zoe Hilker dared not mention other matters in front of her, but whenever they exchanged nces, they could sense the traces of worry in each other¡¯s eyes.

 Chapter 202: "Only Edward Stephens can save Daisy Ginger.

    <h4>Chapter 202: Chapter 202: "Only Edward Stephens can save Daisy Ginger.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger seems so normal.


    Normal to the point of being abnormal.


    Except for not mentioning Edward Stephens anymore, she looks like nothing happened.


    Only those familiar with her can understand how terrifying her current state is.


    *


    That day, Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker visited Daisy Ginger, and the two walked out of the ward.


    Zoe Hilker lowered her head, kicked a paper ball left in the corridor by someone, and gritted her teeth, "Enough, let¡¯s tie her up and take her to a psychologist!"


    Ethan Pond furrowed his brows, rolled his eyes at Zoe Hilker after hearing her words, "Stop messing around."


    "Seeing her like that makes my heart feel suffocated." Zoe Hilker pursed her lips, her voice hoarse, "I feel terrible, Ethan. She refuses to tell me anything, I want to help her."


    Ethan Pond leaned against the corner of the wall next to the vent, lit a cigarette, his brows deeply furrowed, feeling clueless for a moment.


    Daisy Ginger clearly didn¡¯t need their help. What if they forced her to see a psychologist and it stimted her even more?


    Moreover, he thought about it and felt that their words alone weren¡¯t enough to make Daisy Ginger see any doctor.


    With her personality, she¡¯d probably just treat it as idle talk.


    "You two," a male voice called from not far away, "what are you doing standing here?"


    Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker turned around to see Edward Stephens stepping out of the elevator.


    Zoe Hilker was startled to see him, eximed in shock, "Edward Stephens, how did you get out?"


    The man, though still wearing hospital clothes, looked full of spirit. The clear winter sunlight danced on his handsome, fair face, except for his lips, which were still a bit pale from the blood loss, there was no trace of the severe injuries he had recently suffered in the ICU.


    He was still as haughty as when theyst met. He nced at her indifferently and snorted, "Why couldn¡¯t I be out?"


    During Edward Stephens¡¯ hospitalization, she and Ethan Pond had visited him; back then, he was near death, hisplexion a sickly gray, but now he looked incredibly healthy!


    "Modern medicine is amazing," Zoe Hilker murmured.


    "It¡¯s good you¡¯re here," Edward Stephens walked over and naturally asked, "I want to visit Daisy Ginger, which ward is she in?"


    "She justy down now," Zoe Hilker blinked, "maybe I should go inform her first."


    Edward Stephens fiddled with a lighter he¡¯d somehow acquired,zily replied, "No need. I¡¯ll find her."


    "3310," Ethan Pond answered from behind Zoe Hilker.


    Edward Stephens nodded at him, nced at the room number, "Thanks."


    Then, he headed towards Daisy Ginger¡¯s ward.


    As soon as Edward Stephens left, Zoe Hilker got a bit anxious.


    "Why did you tell him?"


    If Edward Stephens noticed Daisy Ginger¡¯s abnormality, what would happen?


    Ethan Pond watched Edward Stephens¡¯ back, his eyes deep, as he quietly said, "He¡¯ll have to know eventually."


    Zoe Hilker pursed her lips, still a bit worried.


    Ethan Pond added, "Only Edward Stephens can save Daisy Ginger."


    Zoe Hilker nced at him.


    Ethan Pond lowered his eyes, his expression calm on his handsome face, "It¡¯s always been that way."


    Because Daisy Ginger¡¯s heart has long been filled with Edward Stephens, no one else can fit in.


    *


    "Ah¡ª"


    Daisy Ginger suddenly opened her eyes.


    All she saw was blood red. She struggled to grip the edge of the bed, her thin chest heaving violently, her pale hands bulging with veins.

 Chapter 203 Reunion After a Long Time

    <h4>Chapter 203: Chapter 203 Reunion After a Long Time</h4>


    Shey on the bed panting heavily for a while, the bloody color before her eyes gradually faded away, and she slowly made out the arrangements in the hospital room and the clear, cold winter sunlight streaming in through the window.


    With her eyes closed, she calmed her frenzied heartbeat within her chest, and the roaring noise in her head slowly subsided.


    The aftermath of the nightmare still lingered inside her, her whole body continued to twitch slightly. For a long time, she couldn¡¯t even control her movements.


    Not sure how much time had passed, she slowly sat up from the bed covered in cold sweat. Her sweat-dampened fingers trembled as she picked up theptop that had been closed not long ago from the bedside, ced it on the small table on the hospital bed, and quickly opened the document.


    The dense reports gradually calmed her chaotic mind. She forced herself to shift all her attention to theputer screen, refusing to think about the nightmare just now.


    Just as she was about to immerse herself in work, there was suddenly a knock at the door.


    "Knock knock knock¡ª"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s heart, which had finally calmed down, jumped in fright, almost causing her to fling the mouse away. She steadied herself and rasped towards the door, "Who is it?"


    There was no response from outside, but instead, the door creaked open, and a tall figure slowly walked in from outside.


    The man was wearing hospital clothes, draped in a ck coat. His hair was a bit long, with a few yful strands covering his forehead.


    Even dressed ordinarily, he still looked so dazzling and handsome. His beautiful features came into view, stirring her emotions.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze swept past his face, hearing Edward Stephens¡¯zy voice drift into her ears with a touch of nonchnce, "Isn¡¯t she awake?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger stared unblinkingly at the maning towards her.


    He was very tall, standing before her, blocking the sunlight shining in from outside the window. The man reached out, brushed her cheek, tucking the stray hair by her face behind her ear, and then sat by her bed in a somewhatzy manner, "Ethan Pond said your foot couldn¡¯t move. I thought that leg of yours was still hanging high. Isn¡¯t it already down?" He tapped her right leg encased in ster, raising his tone slightly, "Why don¡¯t youe see me?"


    Daisy Ginger leaned against the headboard, looking at the man¡¯splete and clear face. She slowly hid her hands beneath the nket, feeling more cold sweat unknowingly trickle down her back.


    Her stomach cramped up, and all her muscles stiffened. She barely maintained a calm expression, tugging at her lips towards Edward Stephens, "Edward, are you alright now?"


    Edward Stephens gave her a sidelong nce, sitting next to her, slightly lifting his chin boastfully, "Of course not. I walked from my ward to here."


    Daisy Ginger carefully observed him, watching his facial expressions, the light in his eyes, and his vibrant appearance.


    "My foot still can¡¯t move," she lied without blinking, even though the doctor had long told her to get up and walk around more. "I still have to stay in bed for over a week."


    Edward Stephens hummed lightly,menting, "Useless."


    Daisy Ginger gazed at him, giving a faint smile.


    Edward Stephens, sitting by her bed, stared intently at her face. Perhaps due to enduring too much suffering these days, she seemed much thinner, her hair messily piled on her fair neck, and the blue and white hospital gown on her appeared slightly too big,zily exposing half a shoulder and corbone.


    She looked somewhat haggard, losing that touch of dominance, appearing younger and more vulnerable, inviting pity.


    Edward Stephens watched her for a while and suddenly said, "Close your eyes."


    Daisy Ginger was slightly startled, her gaze turning nk.


    Edward Stephens looked at her silly appearance, lowered his eyes, and chuckled softly, "Idiot." Then he reached out, ced a hand on her eyes, and gently left a light kiss on her dry lips.


    At the moment their lips touched, Daisy Ginger clenched her hands ced at her sides.


    Her nails dug into her flesh, all her muscles tightened, and her whole body began to tremble slightly.


    It was as if she was suffering from tremendous pain, her face even turned pale.


    Edward Stephens finished the kiss and only then felt a bit embarrassed, even though he had been married to Daisy Ginger for over half a year.


    "Ahem." He cleared his throat lightly, turned his head to look out the window, "Take good care of yourself. I¡¯m fine over here. When I¡¯m a bit better, I¡¯lle see you more often."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s lips quivered slightly, she looked up at Edward Stephens, then quickly withdrew her gaze as if stung.


    "Okay." Because of the tension in her throat muscles, her voice sounded a bit hoarse, but in this atmosphere, it was hard to tell anything was wrong.


    "I will take care of myself," Daisy Ginger said, "You too."


    "I¡¯m way healthier than you, little cripple." Edward Stephensughed softly, lowered his eyes to look at Daisy Ginger¡¯s face, and tapped her forehead with his finger, then frowned slightly, "Why are you so cold?"


    "The air-conditioning temperature is too low," Daisy Ginger coughed lightly, wrapping the thin hospital gown around her, raised her eyes to Edward Stephens, smiled at him, and shifted the topic, "Did the doctor allow you toe out like this?"


    Edward Stephenszily stretched his two long legs, fiddling with the air conditioner remote, adjusting the temperature. When he heard Daisy Ginger¡¯s words, he replied disdainfully, "I just came out. What¡¯s he going to do about..."


    Before he could finish, the head nurse hurried in from outside, saw Edward Stephens, and immediately took out her walkie-talkie, "Found him, found him, 7710 is here with us, I will take him back right now!"


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    "Mr. Stephens, how could you sneak out of the ward without letting Dr. Leighton know?" The head nurse approached, earnestly speaking to Edward Stephens, "Do you know little Li who performs your daily wound cleaning nearly cried when he saw you weren¡¯t in the ward? How did you even get out? Not even the cameras caught you!"


    "..." Naturally, it was to avoid the cameras, he came through the fire escape.


    But he still dered with great justification, "What¡¯s wrong with meing to see my wife? Can¡¯t I?"


    The head nurse wasn¡¯t easy to mess with either, she quickly called over Edward Stephens¡¯ attending doctor, having him take his patient back to avoid disturbing her patient¡¯s recovery.


    Even Edward Stephens was at a loss with his doctor, and to avoid any "retaliation" in his uing treatments, he had no choice but to bid farewell to his long-awaited reunion with his young wife.


    "I¡¯lle see you again tomorrow." He turned his head to look at Daisy Ginger, speaking gently, "Actually, I¡¯ve been fine for a while. They¡¯re just keeping me here to make more money..."


    The attending doctor standing behind him rolled his eyes to the sky.


    Fine my foot, today¡¯s wound cleaning hasn¡¯t even been done yet. No anesthetic for him next time during medication.

 Chapter 204: Fated but Not Destined

    <h4>Chapter 204: Chapter 204: Fated but Not Destined</h4>


    Daisy Ginger smiled at him, "You should go back now. Come see me when you feel better... Actually, I¡¯m fine here, you don¡¯t need to rush over."


    "..." Edward Stephens pursed his lips, nced at her, and mumbled, "Idiot." He ruffled her hair, turning Daisy Ginger¡¯s long hair into a bird¡¯s nest, then stood up looking satisfied, tilting his chin up at her, "I¡¯m leaving."


    Daisy Ginger sat on the bed, smiling and watching him, nodding.


    From Edward Stephens¡¯ angle, Daisy Ginger looked very well-behaved like this.


    His heart stirred slightly, he lowered his head, and under the gaze of everyone, suddenly kissed Daisy Ginger on the lips.


    Then he put his hands in his pockets and leisurely followed the doctor out.


    Everyone exchanged knowing nces, all looking at Edward Stephens and Daisy Ginger with smiles, before leaving with Edward.


    The head nurse came over, adjusted Daisy Ginger¡¯s nket, and earnestly said, "I know you two have a good rtionship, but your husband¡¯s current health is not suitable for him to be moving around, you should advise him..."


    Daisy Ginger interrupted her, "I understand. Please leave."


    "..." The head nurse suddenly fell silent. She was shrewd enough to hear the unusual coldness in Daisy Ginger¡¯s words, her eyes restless as she looked at Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression. She hesitated, exining, "I¡¯m just looking out for your husband¡¯s well-being, don¡¯t be upset..."


    "I said, you can leave now." Daisy Ginger emphasized her words.


    "..." The head nurse widened her eyes, nced at Daisy Ginger, dared not say anything more, and hurried out of the ward.


    The patients living here were by no means ordinary people, either rich or noble, ones she couldn¡¯t afford to offend¡ªshe understood this much.


    After sending everyone away, Daisy Ginger finally couldn¡¯t hold back. She copsed onto the bed, curling herself up.


    Cold sweat poured down instantly, and the pain she had been enduring was no longer hidden. She trembled, her face ashen pale.


    It hurt so much.


    It hurt so much.


    It hurt so much.


    It felt like someone had stabbed a knife into her heart.


    The pain made her body convulse, curled up in the nket, unable to endure.


    Daisy Ginger threw off the nket, her gaze wandering around the room like a headless fly, even casting eyes towards the open window.


    At this moment, she finally understood why Emily Ginger would want to jump off a building.


    It turns out pain can really drive a person insane! Just to get relief, one would do anything.


    She forcefully pulled her gaze back from the windowsill, then powerlessly curled up, holding her chest, her brow furrowed, her whole body trembling, biting her lips tightly.


    Ian Linton...


    She ground her teeth on that man¡¯s name.


    At this moment, she really wanted to pick up a knife, rush into the police station, and stab him to death with her own hands.


    *


    "Daisy."


    Zoe Hilker peeked her little bun-haired head over.


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t lift her eyes from the screen, responding indifferently, "What¡¯s up?"


    "Edward just came to see you, didn¡¯t he?" Zoe Hilker blinked, "How are you feeling now?"


    "What do you mean how?" Daisy Ginger smiled slightly, nced up at Zoe Hilker¡¯s face, flicked her forehead with her finger, "He¡¯s not fully recovered yet, why did you let hime over? Now his attending physician is going to give him a hard time."


    Zoe Hilker observed Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression, then softly uttered "Um," turning her head to look at Ethan Pond standing a little way off, arms crossed, leaning against the door rail, eyes on Daisy Ginger, expression seemingly calm but evidently serious.


    "He wanted to see you," Zoe Hilker lengthened her voice, yfully saying, "It¡¯s such a rare thing, how could I have the heart to stop him?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s gaze returned to theputer screen, her tone indifferent, "You¡¯ve caused him a lot of trouble."


    Zoe Hilker chuckled lightly, blinking, "What, do you feel sorry for him?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s fingers paused slightly on the keyboard.


    She really did feel "sorry" for him.


    She said lightly, "If you have nothing to do, don¡¯t disturb my work. I still have a pile of emails to deal with."


    Zoe Hilker blinked, studying Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression. Her face carried a slightly odd expression, but she obediently withdrew her gaze and went to the door, "Then Ethan and I won¡¯t bother you. ¡ª What do you want for dinner?"


    "Porridge," Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t lift her gaze, "I don¡¯t have much of an appetite."


    "Then I¡¯ll bring you some pork and century egg congee." Zoe Hilker¡¯s voice was sweet, nced at Daisy Ginger a few times, and led Ethan out.


    After they left, Daisy Ginger¡¯s typing gradually stopped.


    She looked at her reflection on theputer screen, her gaze slightly deep.


    These past few days have probably really scared her two friends.


    Daisy Ginger sighed gently, resting her hand on her forehead, closing her eyes tiredly.


    *


    At the door, Zoe Hilker pressed her rosy lips, her small face full of heavy thoughts.


    "Is Daisy okay now?" Zoe Hilker asked softly.


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t ask about Edward Stephens, both she and Ethan Pond felt that Daisy Ginger was avoiding reality, subconsciously not wanting to know about Edward Stephens¡¯ injury.


    Because, her instincts were afraid.


    Now, Edward Stephens himself came to see her, she knew Edward Stephens was fine and didn¡¯t need to be afraid anymore.


    Only, Daisy Ginger, perhaps due to her upbringing, rarely showed her true feelings in front of others. During Edward Stephens¡¯ hospitalization, she was calm as ever; after Edward¡¯s visit, she was also serenelyposed, showing no change at all.


    Zoe Hilker was very worried.


    Is it really okay for her to force herself like this?


    Ethan Pond looked out the window, his tone calmer than Zoe Hilker¡¯s.


    "Since she wants us to interact with her as we used to, let¡¯s continue doing just that," Ethan Pond said softly, "We¡¯ve always done less for her than she¡¯s done for us. The only person who can help her has always been just one. As long as that person is willing to care for her, she¡¯ll be fine."


    These words rified the rtionship between Daisy Ginger and them clearly and understandably.


    From beginning to end, they were not Daisy Ginger¡¯s saviors...


    The princess was waiting for the prince¡¯s return, and they couldn¡¯t dispel her loneliness.


    "..." Zoe Hilker fell silent, standing not far away, gazing at Ethan Pond¡¯s face.


    The memory of the young man¡¯s cold and clear features had matured into the stern silhouette of a grown man, yet his heart remained soft and pure, desperately protecting a princess who wasn¡¯t his.


    Knowing that Daisy Ginger would never love him, was it still worth it to love her?


    If love could be measured by worth, then it would be too cheap.


    When Daisy Ginger was missing, the torment Ethan Pond suffered was no less than Edward Stephens¡¯.


    But every time, it was always just a little bit toote.


    Edward Stephens always found her just a step before he did.


    Maybe, in this world, that¡¯s just the way fate is. He and Daisy Ginger were destined to be close but never together.

 Chapter 205: ’Go buy me a box of painkillers.

    <h4>Chapter 205: Chapter 205: ¡¯Go buy me a box of painkillers.</h4>


    Edward Stephens was discharged from the hospital after a month of staying there.


    Daisy Ginger was discharged a week earlier than him because thepany had fallen behind by nearly a month. Therefore, she didn¡¯t visit him when she was discharged and only asked Zoe Hilker to send him a bouquet of flowers.


    Edward was somewhat dissatisfied with this.


    He considered himself Daisy Ginger¡¯s lifesaver. When she was discharged, she didn¡¯te to see him, and when he was discharged, she didn¡¯te to pick him up either. Was she really ignoring her lifesaver like this?


    This dissatisfaction reached its peak when after returning to the Stephens family home, Oliver Rubio, Daisy Ginger¡¯s secretary, called to say she was working overtime at thepany.


    He hung up the phone with a sullen face and returned to the dining room. Lady Stephens was seated at the dining table. Seeing her son walk in with a frosty expression, she asked in puzzlement, "Edward, what¡¯s wrong?"


    "She¡¯s working overtime tonight and won¡¯t being back." Edward sat in the dining chair, not in a good mood. He nced at the tableware set for Daisy Ginger next to him and found it increasingly displeasing, so he asked the servant to take it away.


    Lady Stephens spoke kindly of Daisy Ginger: "Daisy is managing such a bigpany on her own. How can she be as idle as you, who spends the day at home reading or going out drinking?"


    Edward: "......"


    What the hell, he¡¯s very busy too!


    "If you feel sorry for her, just say it," Lady Stephens gave him a sideways nce, "Why are you sulking like someone owes you eight million?"


    "..." This meal is impossible to eat now!


    After dinner, Edward went out to have a cigarette.


    He took out his phone and sent a text to Daisy Ginger.


    ¡¸My mom made chicken soup for you. It¡¯s in the insted box. Make sure to drink it when you get back tonight.¡¹


    Daisy quickly replied to the text.


    ¡¸Okay, I¡¯ll definitely drink it when I get back ^_^¡¹


    Edward stared at the "^_^" for a while and, for some reason, found it a bit cute, which made the corner of his lips lift slightly.


    At this age, why act cute?


    He hummed to himself inwardly, feeling quite cheerful as he put his phone back into his pocket, and headed upstairs while humming a tune to take a shower.


    Lady Stephens was sitting on the sofa watching TV. She paused slightly in eating her fruit as she watched her son walk past her with a noticeably smug look.


    This guy, his face changes faster than flipping a book. Has he already gone from cloudy to sunny so quickly?


    Halfway through, Edward seemed to remember something and turned to Lady Stephens, "Mom, Daisy will drink the chicken soup when she gets back tonight. Make sure to have someone heat it up for her."


    "Understood." Lady Stephens waved her hand.


    Only then did Edward go upstairs feeling reassured.


    *


    The next morning.


    Edward was brushing his teeth in the bathroom when Lady Stephens, wearing her pajamas, came to knock on the door.


    "Edward," Lady Stephens said groggily to him, "Did Daisye backst night?"


    Edward paused his brushing, only then realizing that Daisy hadn¡¯te homest night!


    Seeing her son¡¯s face change, Lady Stephens was startled and instantly woke up.


    She instinctively spoke well of Daisy Ginger, "Daisy is so busy with work..."


    Edward looked displeased, rinsed his mouth, and called Daisy Ginger¡¯s office phone.


    It was answered by Oliver Rubio.


    On the phone, Oliver Rubio said that Daisy got off work tootest night and couldn¡¯t make it back, so she slept at a vi in the city center.


    Edward impatiently stated, "Tell her to get on the phone."


    Oliver paused, and under Edward¡¯s intimidation, reluctantly handed the cordless phone to Daisy.


    Daisy sat in her office chair, arms crossed, staring warily at the cordless phone handed to her like it was a ticking time bomb.


    Edward wasn¡¯t concerned about whether she was listening and threatened over the phone, "If you don¡¯te home tonight, you¡¯ll have to deal with it!"


    With that, he hung up the phone!


    The busy tone echoed in the quiet office. Oliver put the cordless phone back and sighed at Daisy, "Director Ginger, I know you¡¯re really busy, but you can¡¯t ignore home."


    The calls areing to the office now; I can¡¯t answer them every time, can I?


    Daisy frowned, listening to Oliver¡¯s words, she thought, what do you know. She¡¯s just...


    too busy with work.


    "You can go out now." she told Oliver.


    Oliver nced at her, sighed quietly, and walked away.


    Daisy leaned back in her office chair and rubbed her chest.


    Just thinking about having to see Edward made her heart grow ufortable.


    She closed her eyes, slowly exhaled, and sent a text message to Oliver.


    "Go buy me a box of painkillers and bring it over."


    *


    In the evening, Edward drove over to pick her up personally.


    Daisy still had to use a wheelchair, so he went up to her office and carried her down himself.


    It was the end of the working day, people wereing and going, Daisy felt a little embarrassed being carried by him, while Edward showed no embarrassment a normal person would, openly carrying her to the car.


    "Where do you want to eat?" He leaned against the driver¡¯s seat, shifted gear, andzily turned his head to look at her.


    Daisy blinked her eyes, "There¡¯s a Western restaurant nearby."


    Edward gave her a nce, and upon hearing her answer, let out a slight sneer, "I thought you¡¯d never want to see me again."


    Daisy, "How could it be?"


    "Didn¡¯t visit me while I was in the hospital, didn¡¯t pick me up when I was discharged, and disappeared when it was time toe home," Edward recounted her offenses, pinching her cheek, "Is work more attractive than I am? You might as well marry it."


    Daisy tilted her head, looking at him, and smiled softly, "Jealous?" She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek to appease him, "I¡¯ve fallen behind too much; if I don¡¯t catch up in the next few days, the year-end performance report might not look too good."


    Edward supported his face with his hand, speakingzily, "You¡¯re supporting so many people on your own, aren¡¯t you tired?"


    "Thispany was left by my mom," Daisy smiled, "If I don¡¯t work hard and someone snatches it away, it would be terrible."


    Edward moved his lips, then turned his head to look ahead, "Speaking of which, you haven¡¯t introduced me to your mom yet."


    Daisy gazed into his face, her eyes filled with tender affection. She squeezed her hand, gently exhaled, and, in a calm tone, said to Edward, "Okay, after this quarter¡¯s busy season, let¡¯s go see her."


    Edward nced at her, observing her pretty and delicate face, his lips slightly curled up before reaching out to gently tousle her hair. He drove forward.


    *


    After finishing their dinner at the Western restaurant, Daisy and Edward returned to their home in the city center.


    She went to the study to handle some unanswered emails and, thinking about Edward waiting for her in the bedroom, she took a deep breath and took out the prescription medication that Oliver had gotten for her from the hospital.


    The medication was potent, so the doctor didn¡¯t prescribe much. Daisy took a pill and sat in the chair, quietly waiting for it to take effect.


    She supported her forehead, her eyes slightly closed, her face showing a hint of fatigue under the light.


    ...

 Chapter 206 Her Heart Is Ill.

    <h4>Chapter 206: Chapter 206 Her Heart Is Ill.</h4>


    Another nightmare.


    Daisy Ginger woke from the darkness, drenched in cold sweat.


    She was panting, lying on the bed, her bewildered eyes wide open, unable to tell where she was for a moment.


    As her mind slowly cleared, Daisy slightly turned her head to look at Edward Stephens sleeping beside her.


    Her vision gradually adjusted to the darkness, with the cold moonlight shining through the window, casting a faint indigo glow indoors.


    The man¡¯s sleeping face looked peaceful, his chest rising and falling gently, his breath caressing her face with a hint of otherworldly tranquility.


    Edward Stephens...


    She closed her eyes, feeling unable to bear it, lifted the covers, and stepped barefoot onto the floor, grabbing her crutch, quietly making her way out the door.


    She went downstairs, poured a ss of ice water from the fridge, then groped her way to the sofa, sitting there, drinking the cold water sip by sip.


    The night was deep, silence enveloping all, and Daisy could feel her voice shattering into pieces.


    She never thought she could be this fragile. So fragile that one night could shatter her entirely.


    She opened the medicine bottle, and poured out painkillers, swallowing them with the cold water.


    She loves Edward Stephens, this pain is no longer mental; it¡¯s physical agony.


    Daisy leaned back on the sofa, rested for a while, then took out her phone and opened WeChat.


    "Had another nightmare. Still the same one. Woke up and saw him, my chest hurts. The painkillers you gave me aren¡¯t working well; get me another brand next time."


    She felt the phone vibrate a few times with her eyes closed.


    Unexpectedly, the other person wasn¡¯t asleep either. Daisy picked up the phone, nced at the WeChat reply.


    "You need to be hospitalized. Or, exin it clearly to him."


    Daisy: "No."


    "I can¡¯t help you this way."


    The other party seemed to be getting angry at her as well.


    "Psychological issues affect your physical health, if you don¡¯t exin it clearly to him, your heart will have problems sooner orter."


    Daisy responded: "No."


    She exhaled slowly, tossed the phone aside, and retrieved a pack of cigarettes from under the sofa cushion.


    In the quiet living room, the faint sound of a match being lit echoed momentarily.


    Daisy leaned back on the sofa, exhaling a slow puff of smoke, her gaze drifting unfocused into the void.


    She would get better.


    She had endured for eight years.


    What else was there that couldn¡¯t be endured?


    ...


    At the staircase, a tall silhouette stood silently in the shadows, watching her sit alone on the sofa, puffing at the cigarette.


    The man¡¯s eyes were dark as he nced at the phone on Daisy¡¯sp momentarily, then slowly turned around and left.


    *


    The next day.


    Edward Stephens brought out two tes of sandwiches from the kitchen, cing one in front of Daisy.


    The house chef hadn¡¯t returned yet, so today they had to make do with his homemade sandwiches.


    Sipping a bit of coffee, Daisy said to the man sitting opposite her: "I have to workte tonight, you don¡¯t need to pick me up."


    The man put down his phone, nced at her, propping his face in his hand, watching her.


    Daisy was under his intense gaze for a while, then couldn¡¯t bear it anymore and looked up at him.


    "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "Why do I feel like ever since you came back, you haven¡¯t been fond of me?"


    "..." Daisy blinked, calmly picking up her coffee, "You know I¡¯ve always been busy with work."


    Edward Stephens neither affirmed nor denied, "Is that so."


    "I¡¯ll adjust my work schedule as soon as possible," Daisy said, "You know I love you the most, I couldn¡¯t bear to neglect you."


    Edward yed with the coffee cup in his hand, his long eyshes falling, covering his eyes slightly, his tone just faint. "Is that so."


    "Then can you tell me, who were you chatting with on WeChat alone downstairsst night?"


    Daisy hesitated slightly, a trace of surprise appearing on her face.


    Looking at Edward Stephens, she momentarily didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    Edward¡¯s demeanor was surprisingly calm, he sipped his coffee: "I don¡¯t forbid you from interacting with others, even though we are married. I respect that we each have our personal space."


    Daisy opened her mouth, looking at Edward¡¯s calm yet distant expression.


    He slowly put down the coffee cup, leaned back, resting against the dining chair.


    Looking up at her.


    "When I married you, I didn¡¯t n on it being long-term, but after everything, I¡¯ve wanted to be with you properly."


    Therge dining room fell silent for a fleeting moment, Daisy gazing into Edward¡¯s eyes.


    "Edward." Daisy said softly, "I have no such interactions."


    "Give me that person¡¯s WeChat ID fromst night."


    Daisy slowly lowered her head.


    She took a gentle breath: "...He¡¯s not what you think."


    "No?" Edward interrupted her, "What¡¯s so secretive in your chat with him that you can¡¯t show me?"


    "..." Daisy closed her eyes, her voice slightly hoarse, "There¡¯s nothing secretive."


    "..."


    "Give me a few more days, I¡¯ll handle it," Daisy said softly, looking at Edward, her tone almost pleading, "Edward, believe me..."


    Edward Stephens stood up from across her; he was angry, his delicate beautiful face covered in ayer of frost. Coldly looking at her, fire in his eyes: "Daisy, are you dodging me because you want a divorce?"


    Daisy shivered all over, instinctively shaking her head, her face pale: "I don¡¯t."


    "Who is that man that¡¯s worth sneaking downstairs in the middle of the night to chat with?"


    "..." Daisy¡¯s lips moved, her gaze fixed on Edward¡¯s face, but she didn¡¯t say a word. Her hand gripping the coffee cup tightly, the knuckles whitening.


    "Answer me."


    "It¡¯s not what you think." She looked at him, "Give me a few more days, I¡¯ll exin."


    "What if I want to know now?"


    "..." Daisy was slightly exhausted looking at him, "I have no way, Edward."


    Edward let out a coldugh, kicking away his chair, heading for the door.


    He was already angry, walked quickly, Daisy rose from her chair, wanting to stop him but hesitating to withdraw her hand.


    Seeing she didn¡¯te over, Edward was even more furious, pushing the door open, leaving without turning back.


    "Bang!" The door was mmed shut, outside came the sound of the Bentley¡¯s engine.


    Daisy stood there, unable to move, listening to the sound of Edward leaving, her face pale.


    People inherently avoid harm and seek benefit, she just stood there. Her mind logically knew she should stop him, apologize, make him happy, but her body wouldn¡¯t move.


    The ce over her heart felt like it had been shed, the pain endless.


    It hurt so much, she didn¡¯t dare to lift her hand to stop him.


    Slowly, she crouched down where she stood, hugging her knees tightly, burying her face in her arms.


    She didn¡¯t know how to exin to Edward, didn¡¯t know if Edward would forgive her.


    Her heart was sick.


    Her illness was rooted in him.


    Yet Edward Stephens was the one person she would rather die than give up.


    *


    Seeking rmendation votes~~


    Guess what secret Daisy is keeping from Edward Stephens

 Chapter 207: This Guy Dares to Cheat on Him Behind His Back

    <h4>Chapter 207: Chapter 207: This Guy Dares to Cheat on Him Behind His Back</h4>


    Daisy finished her breakfast alone, then made a call to a cleaningpany, asking them to send someone to tidy up the dining table for her.


    Afterward, she made a call to Edward Stephens.


    Her phone showed that the call was rejected.


    She sat down on the couch in the living room, lowering her head weakly.


    She had anticipated that Edward would notice, but she hadn¡¯t expected him to find out so quickly.


    That¡¯s why she was so reluctant to meet him.


    She wanted to wait until she felt better before living with him again.


    After surviving the ordeal of life and death, her rtionship with Edward had finally moved one step closer, and she really didn¡¯t want her own ipetence to create a rift between them again.


    She sent a text message to Edward: "Edward, how about we go out for dinner tonight? I booked a private room at West River Moon, where you can see the whole night view of Banyan City."


    Edward didn¡¯t reply.


    Daisy persisted: "Edward, your birthday ising up. Have you thought about what birthday gift you want?"


    This time, Edward replied.


    But his words were venomously sharp.


    "Daisy. You look just like a scumbag who¡¯s been out messing with a mistress andes home to buy handbags for his wife."


    Daisy: "......"


    Was it necessary? Besides, she didn¡¯t even have a mistress.


    Daisy pouted, obediently trying to appease him: "I don¡¯t have a mistress, I only have you. I love you the most, you know that, right?"


    Edward: "Heh heh."


    He was determined to force her to confess who she was talking to yesterday.


    Daisy felt a bit helpless, but even more, she felt a pang of heartache. He had risked his life for her, yet she couldn¡¯t make him happy.


    She leaned back on the couch, closed her eyes in some exhaustion, then sent Oliver Rubio a text message, asking for a leave of absence for the morning.


    She wanted to get better quickly.


    She had seeded once before, there was no reason for her to fail this time.


    *


    Daisy waited at West River Moon for over an hour. Just when she thought Edward wouldn¡¯te, the door of the private room opened.


    The imposing silhouette of a man appeared before her.


    "Edward." Daisy immediately put on a smile and called out his name.


    Edward nced at herzily and noticed that Daisy seemed particrly well today, perhaps because she had applied makeup, her eyes appeared exceptionally bright and clear.


    He walked over, sat down across from her, and responded indifferently, "Mm."


    "I ordered your favorite red wine braised beef for you."


    Edward also responded in a very cold manner, "Mm."


    Daisy looked at him, and it seemed like stardust had scattered in her eyes. She softly said, "Edward, I¡¯m so happy you came today."


    "If I hadn¡¯te, what were you going to do?"


    Daisy: "Wait until the restaurant closed before leaving."


    Edward nced at her without saying anything else. He didn¡¯t look like he had let go of his anger yet, but just on her ount, he decided to apany her for dinner.


    Throughout the dinner, Daisy was busy peeling shrimp, cutting steak, and pouring red wine for him. Only after Edward was fed did she take a few bites herself.


    Edward leaned back in the soft chair, sipping the red wine Daisy had poured for him, enjoying the splendid night view outside the window. Yet, he felt the need to warn Daisy: "I never said that matter could be so easily dismissed."


    Secretly chatting with another man was not something that could be easily overlooked.


    He had paid such a high price to save her, almost sacrificing his own life, and dared she y around with infidelity behind his back, he¡¯d break her legs.

 Chapter 208: No matter what happens, don’t betray me

    <h4>Chapter 208: Chapter 208: No matter what happens, don¡¯t betray me</h4>


    Daisy Ginger slowly swallowed the beef in her mouth and said softly, "I have no other man besides you. I promise you."


    Edward Stephens leaned back in his chair, for some reason, a mocking cold smile appeared on his face.


    "It better be." He said ndly, "Otherwise, I have ways to make you regret it."


    Daisy heard this and, for some reason, seemed a bit happy.


    She slowly wiped her hand and then gestured for him.


    Edward nced at her impatiently, "What is it?"


    "Come here a bit."


    The man sat still.


    Daisy hopped over on one leg and squeezed into the sofa chair with Edward.


    She hugged his arm and said softly, "I don¡¯t want any other man. You¡¯re my favorite."


    Edward lowered his gaze to look at her, Daisy tilted her head back, then looked at him and brightly smiled.


    Edward originally had a stern face, but in the end, he pulled her into his arms, letting her sit on hisp.


    "Daisy."


    "Hmm?" She looked up at him.


    "No matter what happens, don¡¯t betray me." His deep voice sounded in her ear.


    "..."


    "Otherwise, I won¡¯t let you off easy."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    "If one day I betray you, you can punish me in any way." She held him, resting her face on his chest, listening to his heartbeat, feeling her own heart subtly aching. The painkiller¡¯s effect was fading, she loved him so much, but her heart couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    Before the painkiller¡¯s effect wore off, Daisy returned to her original spot and finished the dinner with Edward.


    *


    In the days that followed, Edward didn¡¯t bring up "that man" again.


    Daisy also breathed a slight sigh of relief.


    To be honest, she wasn¡¯t very keen on letting Edward know.


    Throughout the years, she had never even told Zoe Hilker and Ethan Pond.


    ...


    At noon that day, Oliver Rubio was called out by Edward through a phone call.


    Two months had passed since that thrilling kidnapping case, and things had gradually calmed down, Ian Linton fell into custody, and his trial had just begun.


    Oliver entered the tea room and saw the distinguished and handsome man sitting in the private suite, his expression carried some alertness and restraint.


    "Sit." Edward poured him a cup of tea, his attitude casual, "You know who I am, so no need for introductions, right?"


    "Mr. Stephens is joking." Oliver sat down in a state of apprehension, took the tea handed by Edward, "What can I do for you?"


    "You spend more time by Daisy than I do." Edward took a sip of water, his tone was mild, making Oliver feel under enormous pressure.


    He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Edward was actually jealous of him.


    "I want to ask you, has she been acting strangetely?"


    Oliver paused, instinctively looking up at him.


    The young and distinguished man had his gaze fixed on him at that moment, his gaze was nd but exerted indescribable pressure.


    Edward did not withdraw his aura, he continued, "At thepany, what has she been doing these days, who has she met, what¡¯s been unusual, I think, aside from you, nobody could know her better."

 Chapter 209: "Daisy Ginger, I need an explanation.

    <h4>Chapter 209: Chapter 209: "Daisy Ginger, I need an exnation.</h4>


    Oliver Rubio¡¯s cold sweat started to drip down.


    Edward Stephens watched his expression, his tone slightly somber: "Do you understand what I mean?"


    Oliver stood up, his head full of cold sweat, avoiding Edward¡¯s gaze as he lowered his head, "Young Master Wen, Director Ginger is your wife, her... matters, it¡¯s better if you ask her personally."


    Edward raised his eyebrows slightly, "Do you not n to tell me?"


    Oliver braced himself and looked at her, "I signed thepany¡¯s confidentiality agreement. If any confidential information is exposed, I¡¯ll face awsuit."


    "Don¡¯t beat around the bush with me." Edward leaned back in his chair, "You know what I mean. If you don¡¯t tell me now, I¡¯ll call Daisy Gingerter and tell her I¡¯m displeased with you, and ask her to fire you."


    Oliver: "..."


    Is he seriously doing this?


    Oliver said helplessly, "Director Ginger hasn¡¯t really done anything, but there is one thing that I found quite odd."


    Edward¡¯s eyes flickered slightly, squinting at him, "Hmm?"


    "She bought a lot of painkillers." Oliver said, feeling hesitant about this matter, which had been bothering him for some time, but he also felt relieved telling Edward, "The medication is potent, one pill canst about twenty-four hours, and the pharmacy prescribes them sparingly. A pill a day wouldst half a month, but these days, Director Ginger has been asking me to get a prescription from the doctor every three days."


    Oliver nced at Edward, "I didn¡¯t dare to ask, Young Master Wen. Is there something wrong with Director Ginger¡¯s leg injury?"


    A leg injury?


    It¡¯s been two months, Daisy Ginger had put away the crutches and could even walk in t shoes.


    What could be the problem?


    Edward thought about these days, he and Daisy Ginger were nearly together every day, yet she was secretly taking painkillers behind his back as if they were candies, which made him feel a bit stifled inside.


    Honestly, he couldn¡¯t figure out what was going on inside Daisy Ginger¡¯s head. If she felt unwell and needed to see a doctor, consulting a doctor secretly in the middle of the night, did she really think he would say anything against her?


    What exactly is she hiding from him?


    "Send her schedule for this month to my email."


    After Edward finished speaking, he stood up and left the teahouse.


    Oliver stood in the teahouse, watching Edward¡¯s gloomy back, and couldn¡¯t help but wipe the cold sweat off his face.


    Could it be...


    He is going to be fired by Daisy Ginger today?!


    *


    Daisy Ginger returned home and saw Edward Stephens sitting on the sofa reading a book.


    She changed into slippers, then moved over and nestled into the man¡¯s arms, wrapping her arms around his neck and giving him a kiss, "Honey, did you miss me?"


    Edward patted her waist, "Go wash your hands, dinner¡¯s almost ready."


    Daisy replied, crawled out of his arms, and then slowly went upstairs.


    Her foot injury hadn¡¯t fully healed, although she didn¡¯t need crutches anymore, going up and down the stairs still caused a bit of soreness.


    She returned to the bedroom, changed into home clothes, exhaled slowly, and opened the drawer of the dressing table, reaching inside.


    As she felt around, she found it empty.


    Daisy froze for a moment, feeling puzzled, couldn¡¯t help but look down, but did not find what she was looking for.


    Didn¡¯t put it in there?


    She was nning to pull out all the drawers to search when she heard footstepsing from the door.


    Edward, who she didn¡¯t know when had arrived at the door, was holding a white stic pill bottle.


    Daisy¡¯s pupils contracted for a moment, and she stood there, momentarily stunned.


    The man leaned against the doorframe, his face and voice very calm. He looked at her and said faintly, "Daisy Ginger, I need an exnation."

 Chapter 210: "Don’t brush me off anymore.

    <h4>Chapter 210: Chapter 210: "Don¡¯t brush me off anymore.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger stared at the medication in his hand, her tightly pressed lips paling slightly.


    Unsure if it was because she hadn¡¯t taken her medicine on time, she began to feel that familiar pain spreading through her chest area.


    She stepped forward and said to Edward Stephens, "Edward, give me the medicine first. I¡¯ll talk to you after I take it..."


    Edward looked at her coldly, his gaze harboring hidden anger and harshness. "Three times this week, you took an afternoon leave. Besides the weekends when you were with me at home, where did you run off to those other days?"


    Daisy¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, cold sweat sliding down her forehead. Her eyes fixed on the medication in Edward¡¯s hand, and she felt the muscles in her throat growing tense, making it difficult for her to speak.


    "Edward... give me the medicine," she stepped forward, trying to snatch the medicine from the man¡¯s palm. But he stepped back, dodging her hand. Daisy¡¯s voice began to tremble, "Just give me the medicine first!"


    Edward asked, "What¡¯s wrong with you?"


    Daisy shuddered all over, raising her head to look at him.


    "You¡¯ve been to the hospital three times this week, treating pain pills like candy." The man¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, coldness seeping through his gaze. He reached out, grabbing Daisy¡¯s frail shoulder, his voice containing traces of anger, "¡ªWhat¡¯s wrong with you? Or is there something wrong with your head?!"


    Like she had been electrocuted, Daisy suddenly raised her hand and pushed him away.


    She didn¡¯t manage to push Edward away, but she freed herself from his grip, stumbling back and falling to the ground.


    Edward¡¯s eyes flickered, instinctively reaching out to pull her up. Daisy screamed sharply, "Don¡¯t touch me!"


    Edward¡¯s actions paused, frowning as he looked at Daisy.


    Daisy quickly retreated, her face even paler than paper, cold sweat soaking through her thin home clothes, her hair wet with sweat.


    ¡ªIt was a scene of unbearable pain, with sweat pouring from her entire body.


    "..." Edward looked at her face, stepped forward, only to be stopped again by Daisy¡¯s shout.


    "Don¡¯te over!"


    Edward pressed his lips together, staring at Daisy¡¯s pale, patient face. He watched as Daisy stumbled her way up from the floor, leaning against the wall, looking at him, eyes pleading through her pain: "Edward... can you please give me the medicine first?"


    She had brought herself to this condition.


    Edward tried to control his anger.


    Brought herself to this state.


    And never mentioned anything about her problems to him.


    This entire month, while taking pain medication, she was smiling and joking with him?


    "Daisy," his voice carried anger, "I spent so much money, paid so many costs to save you, not for you to ruin yourself like this."


    "Take the medicine and exin everything to me."


    "Stop brushing me off."


    He tossed the stic medication bottle at Daisy¡¯s feet.


    Daisy nced at him, then bit her lip and bent down to pick up the bottle, retreating into the bathroom.


    Soon, the sound of water running from the faucet echoed from the bathroom.


    Edward leaned against the wall, listening to the sound of the water from the bathroom, slowly letting out a breath.


    He asked, "...What illness is this?"


    Daisy didn¡¯t answer him.


    Edward lit a cigarette, taking a puff with a furrowed brow. Ever since discovering that Daisy was secretly visiting the doctor, his mood had been foul.

 Chapter 211: Attempted Suicide

    <h4>Chapter 211: Chapter 211: Attempted Suicide</h4>


    And now, he was even more agitated.


    After taking half a cigarette, Edward Stephens said, "I know you¡¯re proud and used to being independent, but since you¡¯re married to me, we¡¯re together now, you don¡¯t have to shoulder everything yourself."


    He paused, and continued, "At work..."


    Edward suddenly stopped mid-sentence, sensing a foreboding smell in the air.


    He looked down and saw water leaking out from the bathroom door, clear water mixed with faint strands of red...


    Edward¡¯s pupils constricted violently for a moment, he quickly lifted his foot and kicked open the bathroom door.


    Daisy Ginger was lying in the pool of water, her clothespletely soaked, with a few painkillers scattered on the floor. Her wrist hung lifelessly, covered with crisscrossing de marks.


    His razor had been dismantled, and the de was clutched tightly in Daisy¡¯s palm, with blood continually seeping through her fingers.


    *


    In front of the emergency room, Edward Stephens sat on the bench, his brows furrowed, smoking a cigarette.


    It took him nearly twenty minutes to rush the unconscious Daisy from their home to the hospital, running every red light in his life.


    Fortunately, they lived in the city center, so the hospital wasn¡¯t far. Once they arrived, Daisy was immediately taken into the emergency room.


    His hands trembled as he lit a cigarette, his heart still felt numb, not calming down.


    Edward held his phone, flipped through his contacts, thought for a moment, but ended up not calling anyone.


    He exhaled slowly, staring at the red light of the emergency room, pursing his lips slightly.


    ...


    Because they reacted quickly, Daisy didn¡¯t lose much blood. She was in the emergency room for a bit over half an hour before being wheeled out.


    Seeing the emergency room doors open, Edward rose from the bench and stepped forward to ask, "Doctor, my wife..."


    "She¡¯s not in any grave danger." The doctor removed his mask and took a nce at the handsome young man in front of him, "She didn¡¯t cut into the artery."


    Edward breathed a sigh of relief, nodded, and looked at Daisy lying on the hospital bed, still receiving a transfusion.


    Her face was still pale, tightly furrowed, as if she was enduring immense pain.


    "Doctor, does my wife have any physical issues? Like, any condition that requiresrge doses of painkillers?"


    "We didn¡¯t find any obvious ailments during surgery," the doctor said, "we¡¯ll need to perform a thorough exam to know more."


    Edward looked at Daisy, pursed his lips slightly.


    *


    Just got out of the hospital a month ago, and now she¡¯s back in.


    Watching the nurses hurriedly move in and out of the ward, Edward felt a bit restless, went to the venttion area to light up a cigarette.


    He finished a cigarette alone, and just as he flicked the ash and was about to return to the ward to check on Daisy, he saw a young man with gold-rimmed sses, dressed in a white casual suit, heading toward Daisy¡¯s ward.


    "Hey," Edward called out to him in an unfriendly tone, "you got the wrong room."


    He had arranged a private room for Daisy.


    The young man was slightly startled upon seeing him, then walked over with a warm smile and said to Edward, "You¡¯re Mr. Edward Stephens, aren¡¯t you?"


    "..." Edward looked at him and said, "Who are you?"


    "Myst name is Lin, single name Dan," the young man handed over a white card with embossed gold, smiling pleasantly, "It¡¯s truly a pleasure to meet you here."


    Edward nced down indifferently at the card, and when he saw the man¡¯s name, his breath slightly hitched.

 Chapter 212 Post-Creation Stress Disorder

    <h4>Chapter 212: Chapter 212 Post-Creation Stress Disorder</h4>


    Although the man had an ordinary face, his smile was very gentle, making people feel a sense of goodwill and rx upon seeing him.


    He was polite and said gently to Edward Stephens, "Mr. Stephens, while Miss Ginger is still asleep, let¡¯s go outside and have a word."


    *


    Edward Stephens found a caf¨¦ near the hospital.


    He sat with a sullen face, extremely cold expressions, leaning on the sofa, looking at Nichs Woods.


    "What¡¯s wrong with her?"


    Nichs Woods sat across from him and said gently, "Mr. Stephens, are you familiar with PTSD?"


    Edward Stephens¡¯ eyes flickered for a moment, and he said, "Are you saying that this kidnapping caused her..."


    "Not this time." Nichs gently interrupted him, speaking softly, "It was eight years ago."


    Edward¡¯s hand on the table clenched slightly.


    "My professor was her first psychologist eight years ago. She was about sixteen when she first came, I believe. She came alone." Nichs slowly poured a cup of warm water and said softly to Edward, "I was an intern then, and I was the one who received her."


    "To be honest, it was the first time I saw a girl of only fifteen or sixteen,ing for psychological treatment at a private practice without any family apanying her." Nichs seemed to feel a bit nostalgic as he spoke of the past, "At that time, she was very young, but her psychological issues were quite severe."


    "What happened to her?" Edward¡¯s voice was hoarse.


    "Parents divorced, mother sick, and there was that kidnapping case that shocked the entire Banyan City." Nichs¡¯ gentle face seemed to manage a bitter smile, "The fact that she even had the awareness to seek help was already remarkable."


    As Nichs spoke, Edward seemed to picture Daisy Ginger at sixteen¡ªbeautiful, sensitive, but extremely fragile.


    "However, the biggest issue when she came for counseling wasn¡¯t actually the kidnapping." Nichs looked up at Edward. "She said she kept having nightmares and was afraid to sleep. My professor provided psychological counseling and found she had severe bipr disorder and agitation."


    "PTSD, characterized primarily by the repeated emergence of trauma-rted scenarios or content in the patient¡¯s thoughts or dreams, can be so severe that it feels like experiencing the traumatic event all over again."


    "Daisy¡¯s nightmares were her repeatedly reliving the scene of the kidnapping."


    Edward¡¯s voice was hoarse as he asked, "What scene?"


    "The scene where you got injured."


    "..." Edward¡¯s lips moved slightly but he said nothing, just looked at Nichs.


    "I know you lost that memory." Nichs smiled a little and took a sip of water, "But for Daisy, that memory is the source of her most severe psychological trauma."


    Edward responded indifferently, "And then?"


    Perhaps slightly surprised by his cold reaction, Nichs paused, looking at him.


    "My professor used hypnotherapy to perform desensitization treatment on her. Later, she recalled the scene and wouldn¡¯t recall the details vividly, and psychologically, she¡¯d be numb to the trauma."


    "It was very effective. Her bipr disorder and mania were alleviated, and even her tendencies towards self-harm and suicide disappeared."


    "..." Edward pressed his lips together, frowning again.


    "But..." Nichs paused, "She contacted me again this month."


    Edward slowly exhaled. He recalled Ian Linton¡¯s kidnapping this time.


    Everything that happened was probably a nightmare revisited for Daisy Ginger.

 Chapter 213 He Really Wants to Hit Her!

    <h4>Chapter 213: Chapter 213 He Really Wants to Hit Her!</h4>


    Looking at Edward Stephens¡¯ expression, Nichs Woods knew he didn¡¯t need to exin any further.


    He lowered his head and said softly, "This time, she¡¯s not doing well. It¡¯s not just a continuation of nightmares; her psychology has affected her physically. She says, seeing you, her heart aches."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ fingers paused slightly, he looked up at Nichs, his voice hoarse, "...What do you mean?"


    Nichs sighed softly and said, "Edward, you are her trauma."


    "Every moment she sees you, every minute and second, she relives the scene of your injury, and those feelings are mirrored in her now. She can only take painkillers to resist this heart-wrenching pain."


    "..." Edward Stephens was slightly taken aback, seemingly not expecting this answer.


    "PTSD, generally speaking, we advise patients with this kind of psychological condition to stay away from the environment that affects them." Nichs sped his hands and sighed again, "But unfortunately, the environment that stimtes Daisy Ginger is you."


    "..." Edward leaned back on the sofa, looked at him for a long time, then softly said, "So, the reason she¡¯s been fine for these eight years is because I wasn¡¯t here."


    Nichs hesitated for a moment but then nodded, "You could say that. Human psychology is very delicate. For example," Nichs said to Edward, "a couple who has had a child together, when their child dies, they often divorce rather than stay together. Isn¡¯t it strange? But for them, seeing each other every second is reliving the pain of losing their child. This pain is unbearable, so they can only part ways through divorce."


    "However, for Daisy Ginger, because of her deep love for you, she managed to hold on alone for so long. She loves you deeply and cannot leave, so even if she suffers immense pain, she wants to be with you."


    "...Why didn¡¯t she tell me?"


    "She couldn¡¯t say it." Nichs sighed, "Because she would rather die in pain than never see you again."


    Everyone knows, Edward Stephens is the man Daisy Ginger loves the most; he is her life.


    *


    Edward Stephens said goodbye to Nichs and did not return to the ward to see Daisy Ginger.


    He smoked alone, walking around the hospital garden several times.


    How could there be a woman in this world, so fragile yet so strong, like ss, bright and radiant, yet lonely and despairing.


    No wonder, there are so many men who are unable to resist her.


    He scoffed softly, tossed the cigarette butt into the trash can, and went into the inpatient department.


    ...


    In the ward, Daisy Ginger had already woken up.


    Nichs was sitting by her bedside, whispering something to her.


    Seeing Edward Stephens appear at the door, Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression visibly grew a bit tense.


    Nichs stood up from the bed and said to Edward, "Mr. Stephens, I¡¯ll be leaving now."


    Edward nodded lightly, watched Nichs leave, and then slowly walked to Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy¡¯s pale face showed a sicklyck of color. Her dark eyes stared at the serene face of the man in front of her, her heart pounding erratically.


    ...She had lost her mind from the pain, which was why she identally self-harmed, but how could she exin to Edward Stephens?


    Would he scold her?


    The man raised his hand, and his palm fell toward her face.


    He was really going to hit her!


    Daisy Ginger closed her eyes in fright, then felt a lightness on her face. His palm pressed against her cheek, something soft touched her lips, and she couldn¡¯t help but open her eyes. It was Edward Stephens¡¯ erged face.

 Chapter 214: Who Would Love a Madman?

    <h4>Chapter 214: Chapter 214: Who Would Love a Madman?</h4>


    His lips gently touched hers a few times. Daisy Ginger looked at him in shock until Edward Stephens slowly raised his head, his deep gaze falling on her face, and asked, "Does it hurt?"


    Daisy¡¯s pupils constricted slightly for a moment. She was clearly a bit surprised. As Edward observed her expression, his gaze deepened, and his face lowered again...


    ...


    When they parted, Daisy¡¯s clear eyes were already brimming with a mist of tears.


    She breathed in shallow gasps, her blurred vision reflecting the man¡¯s profound eyes. All the chaotic thoughts in her mind were veiled by his presence, leaving her mind almost nk.


    He knew.


    Daisy thought with some fear.


    Edward knew about her illness.


    She wanted to fire Nichs Woods... No, she wanted to sue Nichs Woods, that bastard, forcking professional ethics by revealing her illness...


    A hint of vicious hatred shed in her eyes. Edward watched her face and reached out to hold her fingers, asking quietly, "What are you thinking?"


    "... Do you know..."


    "..." Edward looked down at her.


    Daisy crumbled under his gaze.


    She turned her eyes away, struggling to sit up from the bed, lowering her head, trying to withdraw her hand from the man¡¯s grasp.


    Edward tightened his grip on her hand and asked again, "What are you thinking?"


    Daisy kept her head down, her face buried in shadows, her voice somewhat hoarse.


    "... If I¡¯m a lunatic too, would you..." She paused, her throat feeling stuffed with cotton, unable to continue.


    Edward extended his hand, pulling her frail body into his embrace.


    Daisy buried her face in his chest and, for the first time, shed tears in front of him.


    She asked quietly, "Edward, if I¡¯m a lunatic too, would you leave me?"


    Edward lifted his head, gazing at her trembling lips and fearful eyes. He gently wiped away her tears from the corner of her eyes.


    "I would." His low voice resonated as he felt Daisy stiffen. Holding her wrist, he added, "So you need to get better."


    Daisy¡¯s tears streamed down her face as she murmured with a hint of despair, "It¡¯s incurable."


    "You will get better."


    "Nichs said separation would be enough." She looked at him, shaking her head slightly, "Edward, I don¡¯t want to be separated. I don¡¯t want to lose you again."


    She was so fragile and endearing.


    As beautiful as porcin made of ss, seeming indestructible, yet if carelessly let go, it would shatter.


    It must be held carefully, ced on the most ornate shelf, and dusted with velvet daily.


    Edward whispered, "We won¡¯t be apart."


    "..." Daisy looked at him eagerly, fearing she might find loathing in his eyes.


    She had seen too many lunatics; her mother, the patients at Greenhill Hospital, Emily Ginger, and even herself.


    She knew how terrifying it was to lose control, and she dared not let Edward find out she was that kind of lunatic too.


    Ian Linton¡¯s orchestrated kidnapping brought out the most terrifying part of her. She thought she was already fine, so many years had passed, she hadn¡¯t even seen Nichs Woods again.


    But it turned out, the breakdown inside her had always been hidden in her heart.


    A single trigger could st everything she now had to dust and ashes.


    Who would love a lunatic?


    Even Edward Stephens wouldn¡¯t want to be with a lunatic, right?


    *


    Requesting rmendation votes. By the way, the book title has been changed, everyone get used to it.

 Chapter 215: What if he wants a divorce?

    <h4>Chapter 215: Chapter 215: What if he wants a divorce?</h4>


    Edward Stephens looked at her and said softly, "Take your time with the treatment; we have a lifetime to spend together anyway."


    Daisy Ginger was momentarily stunned, lifting her tear-drenched eyshes to look at the man¡¯s face.


    He remained unchanged, not showing much tenderness, yet his lowered eyes, deeply gazing at her, made him appear especially affectionate.


    Daisy Ginger asked nkly, "...how long is a lifetime?"


    The manughed softly, reached out, and ruffled her hair, "As long as you want it to be."


    After hearing this, Daisy Ginger fell silent for a moment.


    She leaned against the headboard, her gaze somewhat lost as itnded on Edward Stephens¡¯ face, pondering the meaning behind his words.


    Edward Stephens was silent too; he sat at the bedside, calmly observing her face, asionally letting his gaze fall on her scarred wrists.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s injuries were mostly focused on her fingers. Perhaps she lost consciousness too quickly, unable to control her muscles, and when she fell to the ground, her hand was still tightly gripping the de, causing deep cuts, with surgeries mainly addressing her finger wounds.


    Her wrists, however, carried crisscrossed cuts that were casually treated with a little medicine and wrapped in gauze, appearingrge in surface area.


    Feeling Edward Stephens gazing at her hands, Daisy Ginger instinctively hid both hands under the nket.


    Edward Stephens stopped looking and merely asked, "How long has this been happening?"


    Daisy Ginger quickly nced at him, then lowered her head, a bit intimidated, "Not too long..."


    "Did you wake up like this?"


    "..."


    Edward Stephens frowned slightly.


    Daisy Ginger: "...Yes."


    The man nodded and stood up from the bedside. Seeing that he was about to leave, Daisy Ginger panicked and hurriedly said, "Edward, I just didn¡¯t want you to be scared..."


    Edward Stephens looked at her, "I¡¯m a bit hungry. What are you nning to eat?"


    Oh, he was just going to get food...


    "Some porridge," Daisy Ginger pursed her lips; after all, both her hands were unusable now, wrapped tightly, she could only use a straw.


    Edward Stephens: "I¡¯ll be back soon. Be good while you sit here."


    Daisy Ginger nodded and watched Edward Stephens leave before picking up her phone and dialing Nichs Woods¡¯ number.


    Nichs Woods seemed afraid she¡¯d find trouble with him, hesitating to answer until Daisy Ginger called him for the third time, when he reluctantly picked up.


    "Hello, Daisy Ginger..."


    "What did you say to Edward?" Daisy Ginger demanded angrily, "What nonsense did you tell him?!"


    "Wasn¡¯t me saying anything," Nichs Woods replied, "He was the one asking."


    "Who gives you a thousand bucks a minute?" Daisy Ginger retorted, "Why are you spouting so much nonsense?"


    Nichs Woods sighed lightly, "Daisy Ginger, how long do you think you can hide your illness? You can¡¯t cure it alone. Do you want to experience heart disease at such a young age?"


    "I was getting better before; it wasn¡¯t until your skills failed to match your teacher¡¯s that I worsened," Daisy Gingershed out harshly.


    Nichs Woods was long used to patients¡¯ disparagement, unbothered and unaffected, "My treatment n is internationally certified; it¡¯s you who didn¡¯t cooperate. Only with Edward Stephens¡¯ involvement do you have a chance of recovery. The root cause of your illness is him; only he can make you well. Do you understand what I mean?"


    Daisy Ginger lowered her head, staring at the phone, was silent for a while before gently asking, "What if he wants a divorce?"

 Chapter 216 Establishing Intimate Connections 1

    <h4>Chapter 216: Chapter 216 Establishing Intimate Connections 1</h4>


    Edward Stephens bought dinner and came back, discovering Daisy Ginger leaning against the headboard ying with her phone.


    She could certainly be called "steadfast despite her injuries." One hand was wrapped up like a dumpling, while the other had a tightly bound wrist, yet she was still using her fingers to poke at the screen.


    Edward Stephens put the takeout boxes on the table and nced at Daisy Ginger: "Time to eat."


    It was almost twelve o¡¯clock, and most of the nearby restaurants had closed. Edward Stephens hadn¡¯t bought a lot, just several stir-fried dishes and some seafood, all of which seemed to be Daisy Ginger¡¯s favorites.


    Daisy Ginger sat there, nced at the dishes, and smiled quietly.


    She was still on a drip and couldn¡¯t get out of bed, so after Edward Stephens had opened the food containers, he brought the IV drip to the dining table and handed her a spoon.


    "My mom knows," Edward Stephens said, sitting across from her. "She originally wanted toe see you now, but I thought it would be dangerous to leave toote, so I asked her toe tomorrow instead."


    Daisy Ginger looked a bit uneasy and asked cautiously, "Did you exin the situation to her clearly?"


    Edward Stephens said, "I n to."


    Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, and Edward Stephens looked up at her, his tone calm: "She is very worried about you, and I think we should rify the situation to her; there¡¯s no need to hide it."


    Daisy Ginger responded with an "oh," lowered her head, and awkwardly picked at a piece of green vegetable with the spoon.


    She ate somewhat absent-mindedly.


    Edward Stephens peeled a shrimp for her, "Open your mouth."


    Daisy Ginger looked up, instinctively opened her mouth, and got a mouthful of shrimp meat.


    A hint of surprise showed in her dark eyes as Edward Stephens withdrew his hand, observing her expression, "Does it hurt too?"


    "...No," she shook her head. "I don¡¯t feel anything now."


    "When does it hurt?"


    "...After having nightmares."


    But she had just undergone surgery, and with the constant painkillers, her sense of pain wasn¡¯t very sharp anyway.


    Edward Stephens nodded, "I¡¯ll ask Nichs Woods again."


    "What?" Daisy Ginger froze, reacting strongly, "Why ask him? That guy isn¡¯t very reliable, I¡¯m nning to switch to someone else."


    "Is that so," Edward Stephens said casually, peeling another shrimp for her, "I think he¡¯s quite capable."


    Daisy Ginger nibbled on the shrimp, somewhat disdainful: "Not as capable as his teacher."


    "That¡¯s because you¡¯re not cooperating with the treatment," Edward Stephens took off his gloves, "No skill can manage when resources arecking."


    Always speaking in favor of that quack.


    Daisy Ginger felt displeased, pouting her lips: "Are you fond of him, Edward Stephens?"


    "..." Edward Stephens red at her, "Don¡¯t pout."


    Daisy Ginger puffed up her cheeks.


    Edward Stephens: "Send me his WeChat after dinner."


    "No."


    "Behave."


    "...." Daisy Ginger pouted again, gave him a nce, and let out a soft snort.


    *


    After dinner, Daisy Gingery back in bed.


    Edward Stephens leaned back on the sofa, crossed his legs, typing rapidly on his phone, seemingly chatting with Nichs Woods.


    Daisy Ginger watched, feeling slightly uneasy, and called out to him: "Edward."


    Edward Stephens looked up, gazed at her, and with his eyes asked: "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "I¡¯m sleepy."


    Edward Stephens came over and stroked her head, "Sleep then."


    Daisy Gingery in bed, looking at him eagerly.


    Edward Stephens looked back at her, asking straightforwardly, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "Don¡¯t keep chatting with him."


    Edward Stephens put his phone down and sat next to her, adjusted her pillow, "Sleep."


    He felt she seemed like a small animalcking a sense of security, needing someone by her side to settle down.

 Chapter 217 Establishing Intimate Connections 2

    <h4>Chapter 217: Chapter 217 Establishing Intimate Connections 2</h4>


    Daisy Ginger turned her face to look at him. Perhaps due to the blood loss, she became very drowsy, and in less than five minutes, she fell asleep against the pillow.


    Edward Stephens sat by the bed, looking at Daisy¡¯s pale face under the light.


    Words from Nichs Woods echoed in his mind.


    "Establish an intimate connection."


    "This is also a form of desensitization therapy."


    "Maybe it will help alleviate her PTSD."


    *


    Edward leaned on the sofa, suddenly feeling a violent shake from the bed. He woke up instantly and quickly turned on the light, only to see Daisy, eyes closed, struggling on the bed with rapid breaths.


    At some point, her face had be covered in sweat, her hair sticking to her skin with cold sweat. This was the first time Edward had witnessed Daisy¡¯s nightmarish state up close, her eyes tightly shut, silently screaming like a prisoner on the brink of death.


    Seeing that the freshly sewn wound on her hand was about to tear open, the man reached out, pressing down her weakly struggling hands, then took the unfinished ss of water from the bedside table and sshed it on Daisy¡¯s face.


    "Ah!"


    Daisy cried out, suddenly opening her eyes. Her eyes revealed a trace of confusion under the light, unfocused as she looked at the void above until Edward spoke, "You had a nightmare, Daisy."


    "..." Daisy¡¯s chest heaved violently, more cold sweat poured down from the corner of her forehead. She seemed to finally see Edward¡¯s face clearly, slowly blinking and weakly whispering his name: "...Edward."


    Edward leaned down, looking at Daisy¡¯s face closely, his reflection in her helpless pupils. He softly asked, "How are you feeling now?"


    "...Let go of my hand first," Daisy reluctantly said.


    Edward looked at her face, seeming to notice something, and released her wrist, then took a step back.


    Daisy slowly sat up from the bed, supporting herself as if she were a rusty machine, her movements sluggish, her face growing paler.


    Edward gazed at her intently, his expression bing increasingly grave.


    "...Did I scare you?" She looked up, managing a feeble smile at him, wiping the cold sweat from her forehead to her chin with her fingers.


    She probably didn¡¯t realize how awful her smile looked right now.


    Edward turned around and walked out.


    Seeing his back, Daisy suddenly panicked and instinctively threw off the nket, trying to chase after him, "Edward!"


    Her voice was filled with fear and despair.


    She had seen her own episodes, that twisted expression more terrifying than a ghost, and Edward had seen it too. It was normal for him to dislike her.


    The secret she least wanted Edward to know had been told to him by Nichs, and the fear and inferiority made her feet tremble gently when she touched the ground.


    If Edward demanded a divorce because of this, she wouldn¡¯t even be able to find a reason to refuse him.


    She had a mental illness. There was now in this world that stated Edward must live with a lunatic forever.


    Edward reached the door, seeing her staggering down, he frowned, turned back, grabbed Daisy¡¯s slender shoulders, and hauled her back onto the bed, asking harshly, "Why did you get out of bed?!"


    Daisy clung tightly to his sleeve, looking up at him with unease, she asked, "Edward, where are you going?"

 Chapter 218: Will This Hurt?

    <h4>Chapter 218: Chapter 218: Will This Hurt?</h4>


    Edward Stephens looked into her frightened eyes, paused for a moment, and realized something. He released his grip on Daisy Ginger¡¯s shoulders, pulled the nket over her, and said: "You aren¡¯t feeling well right now, are you? I¡¯ll go outside, and you might feel a bit morefortable."


    He had always been used to doing things his own way and never thought to inform others, not realizing it would lead to a misunderstanding with Daisy Ginger.


    "..." Daisy Ginger clutched the nket, stammering, "I¡¯m not¡ªtoo ufortable..."


    Edward Stephens nced at her.


    "You can ask the doctor to prescribe some painkillers for me." Daisy Ginger said softly, "It¡¯ll pass soon."


    Edward Stephens gave her a stern look, retorting, "Taking painkillers all the time¡ªyour brain will get numb."


    Daisy Ginger pouted and countered, "There¡¯s no medical proof that painkillers can make people numb."


    Edward Stephens rolled his eyes at her, "I say one thing, and you¡¯re already bouncing back."


    He moved the single sofa to the doorway, sat down at the door, and said to Daisy Ginger, "Just call me when you feel better."


    Daisy Ginger looked at his back, softly echoed "Oh," and curled up into the nket, blinking her eyes.


    Her heart still felt a bit painful, but inexplicably, a bit of sweetness seemed to surface in her mouth.


    This sweetness blended with the pain, making her heart feel less bitter.


    Daisy Ginger hugged the nket, feeling a bit tongue-tied.


    Could it be that Edward Stephens can really cure her?


    Daisy Ginger slept straight through to dawn.


    When she awoke, the sun was already high in the sky. Edward Stephens entered from outside, filled with a radiant and lively sunshine. Seeing her nestling in the nket rubbing her eyes, the man walked over to open the window, then grumbled, "I told you to call me when you felt better, but you slept until now to wake up."


    Luckily, it¡¯s winter with no mosquitoes, otherwise, he¡¯d probably have bites all over his legs.


    Daisy Ginger let out a small yawn, her hair tousled from sleep, looking a bit disheveled, but herplexion was much better than before sleep yesterday. Although still pale, there was a bit more life in her eyes.


    For the first time, while looking at Edward Stephens, she didn¡¯t need painkillers to fall asleep, feeling quite miraculous.


    The nurse noticed she was awake and came in to measure her blood pressure, clean the wounds, and change her bandages. An hour passed in no time.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the doorframe, holding his phone, seemingly chatting with someone, not sparing her a nce.


    Daisy Ginger finished changing her medication, coughed softly, "Cough!"


    "..." With the corner of his eye, the man nced over.


    "Which wild man are you chatting with?"


    Edward Stephens walked over and pinched her cheek hard.


    Then he asked her, "Does this hurt?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger, whose half-face was almost swollen from his pinch.


    This guy, did it on purpose, didn¡¯t he?!


    Anyone being pinched like that would feel pain!


    Seeing her half-face darken, Edward Stephens chuckled, leaned down, tapped her nose, and moved his head closer to look at her, "Does this hurt?"


    Daisy Ginger looked at his face and shook her head.


    The man chuckled again, touched her face a few times, "How about now?"


    Daisy Ginger felt a bit ticklish under his touch, she nced at him, "No."


    Just as the words left her lips, the man¡¯s face descended toward her, his cool lips slowly brushed against hers.


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s heart leaped as if struck by a current, her whole body tingled.


    This feeling was too mysterious, hard to tell if it was pain or numbness, with various sensations mixed together, difficult to differentiate at once.


    She froze, seeing the man slowly lift his head, slightly furrow his brows, and ask: "Does this hurt?"

 Chapter 219: Brother Will Buy You Everything in the Future

    <h4>Chapter 219: Chapter 219: Brother Will Buy You Everything in the Future</h4>


    "...Feels weird." Daisy Ginger had an inscrutable expression, looking at him with a strange gaze, then reached out and pushed his face away, "Don¡¯t keep leaning over."


    Edward Stephens looked at her expression and, for some reason, let out a soft chuckle. Hezily stepped back, leaned against the wall, crossed his arms, and his gaze fell on her.


    The way he looked seemed a bit enigmatic.


    "What?" Daisy was baffled by his staring.


    Edward, in a leisurely manner, said, "I didn¡¯t expect you to feel shy."


    "..." Daisy was momentarily speechless by his words and retorted, "What nonsense are you talking about!"


    Getting shy from a kiss, does he think she¡¯s a schoolgirl? She was just startled by him!


    Edward looked at her, leisurely shook his head, sighed, giving her a look of ¡¯hopeless student¡¯.


    Daisy: "Don¡¯t go too far, Edward Stephens."


    Seeing her almost explode from his teasing, Edward just coldlyughed and said, "Daisy, you¡¯ve got iting to you today."


    Daisy: "..."


    Damn it, is he here to settle old scores?


    She¡¯s still a patient!


    Luckily, a nurse arrived with breakfast just in time to interrupt their senseless childish squabble.


    Daisy, as usual, had porridge.


    After breakfast came various antidepressants and bipr medications.


    Daisy wasn¡¯t fond of staying in the hospital, especially being hospitalized for mental health reasons. When she used toe to the hospital for psychological issues, maybe because she was young or alone, she would always receive sympathetic looks from nurses and doctors.


    She didn¡¯t like others feeling sorry for her.


    No need for that.


    Her background ensured she lived better than ny-nine percent of the people in this world.


    She didn¡¯t need anyone¡¯s pity.


    So, she didn¡¯t like staying in the hospital.


    But in front of Edward Stephens, she actually liked to pretend to be pitiable.


    After taking her medication, Daisy started calling his name pitifully.


    "Edward, Edward, Edward."


    Edward was leaning against the window, ying with his phone. Hearing Daisy¡¯s voice, he slightly lifted his head to look at her.


    She was sitting on the bed, with her clothes drooping at the neckline, exposing a small half of her fair, rounded shoulder. Her hair looked like a bird¡¯s nest, fluffy and messy. To be honest, even in such a state, she still looked so dazzling.


    Edward, not too close nor too far, nced at her, "What¡¯s up?"


    "The medicine just now was bitter," Daisy said, "I want some candy."


    Edward put his phone away, looking at her with leisure, "Daisy, are you a child?"


    "I¡¯m so pitiful right now, what¡¯s wrong with having a candy?"


    Edward thought about it and figured she had a point. Having been kidnapped and suffering a rpse, she was indeed quite pitiful.


    He walked over to her bedside, reached out and tapped her chest lightly, asking, "Is it still painful here today?"


    Daisy shook her head.


    Edward¡¯s eyes were somewhat profound, and upon hearing her, he seemed to ponder something quietly for a moment before saying, "What vor of candy do you want?"


    "Strawberry." She instantly smiled.


    Edward looked at her, thinking that, typically, she¡¯d be reaching out to hug him and stealing a kiss.


    He raised his hand and gently smoothed her fluffy long hair, "Take good care of yourself, and your brother will buy you all the candy in the future."


    After speaking, he picked up his coat from the sofa¡¯s armrest and turned to leave.


    Daisy sat on the bed, contemting Edward¡¯sst words.


    Brother and all that...


    Is this guy teasing her on purpose again?!

 Chapter 220: What do you think of Daisy now?

    <h4>Chapter 220: Chapter 220: What do you think of Daisy now?</h4>


    Edward Stephens came back not only carrying a pile of candy but also brought Lady Stephens along.


    Lady Stephens had fallen seriously ill due to Edward¡¯s hospitalization from severe injuries, and she had only just recovered these days. Although she wore some makeup, her sallowplexion could hardly be concealed, making her look quite haggard.


    Edward ced the pile of candy on Daisy Ginger¡¯s bedside table and said to the two women in the room, "You guys chat."


    Then he opened the door and went out.


    Lady Stephens nced at Daisy Ginger¡¯s scarred wrists, her eyes reddened again. She walked over, sat by the bed, touched Daisy Ginger¡¯s hair, and softly called her name, "Daisy..."


    She had learned about Daisy Ginger¡¯s illness from Edward and felt heartache. She hadn¡¯t slept well all night, feeling both distressed and a bit uneasy, and hurried here early this morning.


    "You¡¯ve truly suffered too much alone." Lady Stephens wiped the corners of her eyes, choking on her words, "Auntie is sorry to you."


    Daisy Ginger smiled slightly, "It¡¯s me who is too useless. What¡¯s it got to do with you, Auntie? I¡¯ve been dealing with this illness for seven or eight years, and if it weren¡¯t for Ian Linton... it wouldn¡¯t have rpsed."


    Lady Stephens lowered her head, moved her lips, "Ian Linton deserves to die."


    For such a remark toe from the naturally gentle and kind Lady Stephens, Ian Linton had truly enraged someone.


    Ian Linton¡¯s mental diagnosis hadn¡¯te out yet, but Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t too concerned about him anymore. Regardless of the result, he and she were no longer from the same world.


    It would be best if he went to jail; even if he couldn¡¯t, he would have to be locked up in a mental hospital and receive electroshock treatment.


    He shocked Emily Ginger into madness, and now, he might also get shocked.


    Indeed, self-inflicted misery cannot be lived.


    Lady Stephens sat down to chat with her for more than half an hour. Seeing Lady Stephens looking unwell and haggard, Daisy Ginger did not want her to stay in the hospital for too long and called Edward Stephens toe in and take her home.


    Edward Stephens was leaning by the door, and upon hearing Daisy Ginger call him, he opened the door and walked in.


    "Mom, let me take you home." He supported Lady Stephens¡¯s arm, helped her up, then nced at Daisy Ginger, who was leaning against the bedhead and seemed to be in decent spirits, "Do you want anything? I¡¯ll bring a bit over for you."


    Daisy Ginger touched her face, "My face is really dry. Could you bring me my ex-boyfriend mask and the little ck bottle?"


    "......" What mask?


    Edward Stephens gave her a sideways nce, "I¡¯ll be back soon. If you¡¯re ufortable anywhere, remember to call the doctor."


    Daisy Ginger unwrapped a piece of candy; it was lemon-vored, making her face scrunch up sourly. She waved her hand dismissively, "Yeah, got it, got it."


    Seeing her dismissive expression, he pinched her cheek, "Tell the doctor where it hurts, don¡¯t endure it on your own and end up making more trouble than it¡¯s worth."


    "..." Daisy Ginger puffed up her cheeks, "It really hurts now."


    Edward Stephens gave her a sidelong nce, "Serves you right."


    After saying that, he let go and rubbed Daisy Ginger¡¯s reddened cheek where he had pinched, "I¡¯m off."


    Lady Stephens watched from the side, her expression mixed.


    Edward Stephens held her hand, his demeanor calm and his pace leisurely, leading her downstairs.


    Lady Stephens sat in the passenger seat, looked at her son¡¯s profile, and couldn¡¯t help but say, "Edward... what do you think about Daisy now?"


    Edward Stephens looked ahead, started the engine, and upon hearing his mother¡¯s question, he replied with another question, "What else could I think?"

 Chapter 221: "Edward, do you hate Mom?

    <h4>Chapter 221: Chapter 221: "Edward, do you hate Mom?</h4>


    Lady Stephens lowered her head, moved her lips, and said softly, "Edward, do you hate your mother?"


    Edward Stephens cast her a nce, "Don¡¯t tter yourself."


    Lady Stephens was choked by his words and pursed her lips in grievance.


    Bentley drove towards the Stephens family home, and the mother and son sat quietly in the car for a moment.


    Lady Stephens had been recovering from an illness these days, her mind empty, not thinking about anything.


    But upon learning that Daisy was ill, and having learned the reason for Daisy¡¯s illness from Edward, her mind was filled with worries again.


    For Edward, she naturally felt guilty but did not regret it; however, for Daisy, she was now somewhat restless.


    That child seemed to have ced her life entirely on Edward, this intensity of feeling was terrifyingly unsettling.


    If one day, everything was revealed, would Daisy still have a chance to live?


    Her initial decision now seemed like she had exchanged Daisy¡¯s life for Edward¡¯s.


    Lady Stephens had never done anything wrong in her life, and the only time she schemed, the only time she acted out of selfishness, was for her own son.


    But Daisy was innocent.


    ...


    Edward drove, taking a nce at his mother¡¯s anxious figure in the rearview mirror.


    His expression was indifferent, and he even yed some lively music.


    Of course, he knew what Lady Stephens was thinking. His mother¡¯s mind was single-threaded, incapable of handling dual processes; if she hadn¡¯t married into a wealthy family, she probably wouldn¡¯t have lived well to this day.


    She would have long been ensnared in her own trap.


    He deliberately let her introspect, saying nothing along the way and drove straight home.


    Upon returning home, Edward went directly to the bedroom, rummaging through Daisy¡¯s makeup cab, he dug out a bunch of face masks, but didn¡¯t find any "ex-boyfriend mask" or "little ck bottles," so he impatiently took pictures for Daisy, watching as Daisy circled the items she needed in the photos.


    Daisy couldn¡¯t be discharged from the hospital yet, so Edward packed her underwear and change of clothes, giving them to the servants, instructing them to pack them into his car to take to herter.


    Just as he was about to leave, Lady Stephens called out to him.


    "Edward."


    She stood at the doorway, her expression somewhatplex.


    Edward turned back, looked at his mother¡¯s expression, and understood she had something to say.


    He silently retracted his gaze, handed the skincare products he was holding to a servant, and followed his mother upstairs.


    Lady Stephens¡¯ room was warmly decorated, exuding a faint lily fragrance.


    When he was young, he would sneak into his mother¡¯s room, rummaging through her things with youthful mischief, but once he grew a bit more mature and started doing business with Robert Stephens, he no longer entered Lady Stephens¡¯ room.


    Now entering again, smelling the familiar lily scent, memories of long ago flooded back.


    Lady Stephens sat at her dressing table, took out a small mahogany dressing box from the drawer. The box was very exquisite, gilded and colored, suggesting the items inside were of great value to her.


    "Edward," Lady Stephens held onto the dressing table, sobbing softly, "I beg you, no matter what happens in the future, don¡¯t abandon Daisy. She is the most innocent, it was me who was wrong, if I hadn¡¯t been so selfish, Daisy wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this."


    She truly hadn¡¯t expected that on this journey, it was she herself who pushed Daisy to a dead end.


    She was hanging there, only needing Edward to loosen his grip slightly, and she would shatter to pieces.

 Chapter 222 All the Secrets

    <h4>Chapter 222: Chapter 222 All the Secrets</h4>


    Edward Stephens walked in from the doorway, reaching out to take the dressing box from Lady Stephens¡¯ hand.


    There was abination lock hanging on the box. He nced at Lady Stephens and casually entered a few numbers.


    With a "click," thebination lock opened.


    Lady Stephens stared nkly for a moment, looking at her son incredulously, her red-rimmed eyes filled with doubt.


    Edward gave her azy nce, not bothering to exin. Her passwords were just a few numbers repeated over and over; it was easy to guess.


    Edward lowered his head and opened the exquisite lid of the box.


    Neatly stacked photos were revealed in front of him.


    It turned out the most precious thing Lady Stephens had hidden inside was a few yellowing photos.


    Edward¡¯s gaze deepened.


    It was as if he had personally opened Pandora¡¯s box, and the secrets that had been hidden for decades unfolded before him like this.


    He bowed his head, looking over the photos one by one.


    His expression was calm, without any ripple of emotion.


    Lady Stephens twisted her hands, watching her son¡¯s expression, her face tense, restless.


    Today, she had told him all the secrets, thoroughly andpletely.


    He is...


    What does he think?


    Edward returned the photos, then handed the dressing box back to Lady Stephens.


    His expression was indifferent, "I¡¯ll head back to the hospital first."


    Lady Stephens held the dressing box, watching her son walk out as usual. She froze briefly and looked at him in panic, "Edward!"


    Edward stood at the door, turning his head slightly upon hearing her. His gaze was deep, but his tone was calm, "Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t abandon my woman."


    Lady Stephens looked at him with slight surprise.


    Edward continued, "You don¡¯t need to worry unnecessarily. The past is already past. She is mine now, and I won¡¯t let her suffer."


    Because of Edward¡¯s words, Lady Stephens¡¯ panicked heart inexplicably calmed somewhat.


    She knew that although her son always seemed indifferent to everything, he never lied about the things he promised her.


    Lady Stephens¡¯ chest heaved violently once, and her pale face gradually regained color.


    She smiled at him gently, saying, "Daisy is a good girl, as long as you treat her well, she will be the woman who loves you the most in the world."


    The woman who loves you the most in the world.


    Edward lowered his eyes, silently let out a chuckle, then nodded slightly at Lady Stephens and turned to leave.


    He got into the car, slowly exhaled a breath, and felt his phone vibrate slightly a few times. When he took it out to look, it was Daisy Ginger who had sent another WeChat message.


    Daisy Ginger: "I still need SKII and La Mer cream, just these few in the picture. Please bring them along."


    Her demands were really damn many.


    Edward tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, leaned back in the chair, closed his eyes, and pressed his lips together slightly.


    His mind was filled with the photos Lady Stephens had just shown him.


    Even though he was prepared, seeing those faces in the photos, his heart still felt like it had been heavily hit.


    That feeling was hard to describe.


    A bit nauseated, a bit excited, a bit repulsive, but more than anything, it wasplicated.


    It was a shockpletely iparable to the old stories Ryan Smith had brought to him, telling him those news.


    Edward¡¯splexion, under the clear winter sunlight, also faintly showed a hint of transparency.


    He was intensely emotional, sitting in the car smoking for over half an hour before he slowly calmed down, then drove to the hospital to see Daisy Ginger.

 Chapter 223 Unloved by Father and Mother

    <h4>Chapter 223: Chapter 223 Unloved by Father and Mother</h4>


    Edward Stephens carried a pile of things upstairs and saw a throng of people at the door of Daisy Ginger¡¯s hospital room from afar. The nurses¡¯ screams and a woman¡¯s curses were incessant, and the not-so-spacious doorway was crowded with about ten people.


    "Daisy Ginger, get out here!"


    "You¡¯ve ruined Emily¡¯s life, I won¡¯t let you go! I will never let you go in this lifetime!"


    "Why did you harm her, why did you harm her!"


    "I won¡¯t spare you, I won¡¯t spare you!"


    ...


    Who could it be with such a loud voice that the entire floor could hear other than Abigail Perry?


    A group of young nurses couldn¡¯t stop Abigail Perry, who was raging like a shrew, and even the idle inpatients from the same floor came over with their IV drips to watch themotion. The usually quiet and orderly hospital room had been turned lively like a marketce by Abigail Perry.


    The door to Daisy Ginger¡¯s hospital room was tightly shut and locked from the inside. Abigail Perry couldn¡¯t get in, so she just pounded on the door with her fist, swearing, and threatening Daisy Ginger repeatedly back and forth at the entrance.


    Her voice was loud and full of vigor, and even if others weren¡¯t interested, they understood the story of "Daisy Ginger harming her own sister." A few elderly women sat on a bench not far away, leaning on canes, whispering eagerly about the gossip.


    Edward Stephens¡¯s face became cold and stern. His tall figure and the aura cultivated from a position of power naturally parted the crowd at the door as he approached.


    The onlookers, seeing this young man exuding a freezing aura and oppressive presence, felt a bit intimidated and moved back, retreating a safe distance to whisper among themselves.


    Edward Stephens nced at them with knitted brows, and they dared not act rashly anymore, sulkily returning to their rooms with IV bottles.


    As the spectators dispersed, the air around loosened up. A young nurse, seeing him as if she¡¯d seen a savior, hurried over and called out to him, "Mr. Stephens!"


    Abigail Perry, who was pounding on the door, turned around at the sound of Edward Stephens¡¯s name. Upon seeing him, she immediately walked over joyfully, trying to grab Edward Stephens¡¯s hand, "Edward, you¡¯ve finallye! You have to stand up for Emily! I heard that it¡¯s Daisy Ginger who caused this to happen to our Emily! That bitch harmed our Emily!"


    Edward Stephens dodged Abigail Perry¡¯s outstretched hand, coldly saying, "Who told you that?"


    "The night before Emily went crazy, didn¡¯t shee looking for you? It was Daisy Ginger who stopped her froming in! Our poor Emily, she begged her for so long, but she wouldn¡¯t allow her in to see you! If Emily had seen you that night, she would¡¯ve been saved. She must have had something important to discuss with you. Daisy Ginger, that vile woman, she was jealous of you liking Emily and made her suffer!"


    Abigail Perry had somehow learned about the events of that night when Emily Ginger came looking for Daisy Ginger and had specificallye all the way from home to the hospital to trouble Daisy Ginger.


    Edward Stephens frowned slightly and said to Abigail Perry, "Daisy Ginger has been hospitalized ever since she got kidnapped. Where have you been?"


    Abigail Perry replied righteously, "Her kidnapping has nothing to do with me. Why would I visit her?"


    Edward Stephens gave her a nce, "The same lifestyle you¡¯re enjoying now, it¡¯s all thanks to Daisy Ginger earning it. Have you forgotten about that?"


    "That¡¯s also because of the shares my husband gave me!" Abigail Perry shouted, "If she has the ability, let her buy back the shares from me! Her own father wouldn¡¯t even give them to her, and she mes me for that?"


    It seemed she feared no one knew about how Daisy Ginger was not loved by her parents. She spoke loudly and clearly for everyone around to hear, especially for Daisy Ginger inside the room.


    Edward Stephens¡¯s expression turned slightly chilly, and just as he was about to speak, the hospital room door suddenly clicked open. Daisy Ginger, wearing a hospital gown and looking pale, appeared at the door.


    Her dark eyes were fixed directly on Abigail Perry¡¯s face, her voice cold and stern, "Have you not caused enough trouble yet? Aren¡¯t you embarrassed enough?!"


    Seeing Daisy Ginger appear, Abigail Perry became more smug, turning around to point at Daisy Ginger¡¯s nose, cursing, "You hurt your sister, Daisy Ginger. I may be a disgrace, but you¡¯re not even human!"


    Daisy Ginger looked at her, "That day she came to see me, but I didn¡¯t know she had anything urgent."


    "That¡¯s premeditated murder!" Abigail Perry shouted, "You think you¡¯re free from suspicion just because you didn¡¯t know?"


    "Emily Ginger didn¡¯t turn this way overnight. You, as her mother, shouldn¡¯t you know when she started acting abnormally?"


    Abigail Perry¡¯s breath caught, and she looked at Daisy Ginger, her gaze wavering slightly. Then she retorted, "What nonsense are you spouting now?"


    "You didn¡¯t take proper care of her and instead pushed the me on me, thinking you can live with peace of mind?" Daisy Ginger made a slight sneer, mocking, "You probably know better than I do how exactly she went mad!"


    "How she went mad? How she went mad, tell me! She was fine when she came to look for you, but turned crazy when she left! You¡¯ve ruined our Emily, and you¡¯re still spouting nonsense here!" Abigail Perry choked, looked at Edward Stephens, and pleaded, "Edward, you must stand up for our Emily. Daisy Ginger still doesn¡¯t admit it, even though it¡¯s clear she ruined Emily. Emily is only twenty-four, what will she do with her life... sob."


    With that, she couldn¡¯t help but start crying.


    Edward Stephens went over, handed the small suitcase he was carrying to the nurse behind Daisy Ginger, and said to Daisy Ginger, "You go back to bed for now."


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s face still looked pale, but she seemed very stubborn at that moment. She pursed her lips, looked at Edward Stephens, "Weren¡¯t you the same with your me before?"


    Edward Stephens kept his expression calm and said softly, "That was my mistake."


    Daisy Ginger looked at him, then at Abigail Perry, pursed her lips, made a cold snort, and turned back into the room.


    Edward Stephens stood at the door, raised his eyes slightly, and coldly said to the distant crying Abigail Perry, "You know very well who drove Emily Ginger mad. Coming here to make a fuss, your intentions are clear to yourself."


    Abigail Perry lifted her tear-filled eyes, looked at the young man with an icy demeanor, her lips quivered, "It wasn¡¯t..."


    "After she went mad, she not only approached me but also approached Daisy Ginger. If she really thought Daisy Ginger harmed her, she wouldn¡¯t stay close to her." Edward Stephens paused, smirked lightly, his eyes darkening a little, "¡ªTell me, when she¡¯s mad, who is she most afraid of?"


    This sentence was like a hammer violently striking Abigail Perry¡¯s face, which instantly contorted. She raised her head, her lips trembling as she looked at Edward Stephens, "You" for a long time, before she gritted her teeth and said, "Edward Stephens, our Emily trusts you so much, likes you so much, yet you¡¯re helping an outsider!"

 Chapter 224: He is the boy she loved

    <h4>Chapter 224: Chapter 224: He is the boy she loved</h4>


    Edward Stephens nced at her indifferently, his gaze on her as if he were looking at some insignificant speck of dust.


    He said to the nurse beside him, "Call security."


    Then he ignored Abigail Perry¡¯s loud cries, opened the door, and walked inside, locking the door behind him.


    Abigail rushed forward, unable to stop Edward from closing the door, angrily pounding on it several times and even cursing at him.


    She was originally a vige woman with little education, and now in her anger, she forgot all the manners taught by her etiquette teacher, cursing in an ugly and crude way.


    After a while, security came up and dragged the swearing Abigail away.


    The noise at the door gradually faded, and the ward quieted down.


    Daisy Gingery on the bed, a face mask on her face, her eyes closed as if she were asleep.


    Edward walked over, sat beside her bed, and peeled the mask off her face. "Don¡¯t sleep, keep mepany for a while."


    Daisy opened her eyes, looking at him expressionlessly. Once any trace of a smile disappeared from her face, it turned cold and morous, the light in her eyes sharp enough to prick, making it daunting to look directly into her eyes.


    Edward looked at her, "Are you angry?"


    "Not really." Daisy replied lightly, "You¡¯re not ming me from the start, so I¡¯m used to it."


    This was truly a sign of anger.


    Edward sat down beside the bed, "What are you nning for lunch?"


    Daisy knew he was changing the subject, snorted coldly, nced at him, and burrowed under the nket, showing him the back of her head.


    Edward sighed softly, and picked her up through the nket. Daisy was wrapped up like a spring roll, her lips pursed and head cold and exposed.


    Seeing him look over, she turned her head impatiently, staring out the window.


    Edward lowered his eyes, amused by Daisy¡¯s proud expression, reaching out to tuck the strands of hair behind her ear, and then chuckled, "Still angry?"


    "..."


    "I thought I had already made up for my mistakes." He sighed deeply, "What do I have to do for you to forgive me?"


    Daisy pressed her lips, looking at the deep, dark eyes of the man, her voice hoarse, "You don¡¯t like me anyway."


    Edwardughed, "Goodness, I almost gave my life for you, isn¡¯t that enough to show I like you?"


    "..." Daisy bit her lip, lowered her eyes, and slowly buried her face in the man¡¯s chest.


    She said, "...Even so. If you like me, it must be only a little, not as much as I like you."


    Edwarding to save her and getting stabbed by Ian Linton had little to do with whether he loved her or not.


    He might have started to like her a bit, but it was impossible for him to like her more than she liked him.


    Even though it felt unfair, she couldn¡¯t help but ept that once upon a time, he liked her more.


    She felt a slight pain in her heart again, closed her eyes, and felt the warmth of the man¡¯s body against her cheek. The warmth absorbed her.


    Edward stroked her fluffy long hair and, hearing Daisy¡¯s words, smiled and responded casually, "Not necessarily."


    After calming Daisy down, Edward only then ordered her lunch.


    Knowing she loved seafood, Edward ordered a table full of it, peeling the shells for her while teasing, "You must have been a shark in a past life."


    Daisy rolled her eyes at him, "If I were a fish, I¡¯d be a mermaid."


    Edward didn¡¯t expect her to answer like that, he was amused and couldn¡¯t stopughing softly with his head down.


    Daisy felt a bit sulky, what was so funny? Wasn¡¯t she beautiful?


    He¡¯s a clueless man.


    *


    Daisy stayed in the hospital, kept there by Edward for half a month forcefully.


    With all the medication, her mental state improved significantly, and the nightmares decreased a lot.


    The wounds scabbed over, eventually healing and falling off, leaving only faint pink scars. The doctor assured her that her skin would self-repair, and she didn¡¯t have to worry about scars.


    Once she felt better, she caused a fuss about being discharged. Edward could only persuade her for so long, and after a while, even he couldn¡¯t hold her back. They discussed it with the doctor and agreed to let her leave after staying for twenty days.


    Daisy¡¯s psychologist, Nichs Woods, even called to thank him, saying Daisy only listened to him, so he should bring her by for a psychological test in a few days and put in a good word for him with her.


    Edward could sense that the people around Daisy were a bit afraid of her, perhaps because of her high position, leading her to suppress her emotions, or maybe she just naturally had a stern "keep out" vibe, thus she had no particrly close friends over the years other than Ethan Pond and Zoe Hilker.


    Even though Ethan and Zoe were good to her, Daisy was so used to independence that she wasn¡¯t ustomed to relying on others, which made it hard for those two to get to know her situation.


    She¡¯s been by herself over the years, so much so that even Daisy reckoned she didn¡¯t need rest, didn¡¯t need to rely on anyone, and could handle everything on her own.


    And she indeed handled many things beautifully, without any ws.


    To the extent she forgot she was just a girl with divorced parents, whose family was ruined before she became an adult, with a heart full of scars, now only twenty-four years old.


    Only Edward existed in that little, fragile, and coy, pre-closure part of Daisy¡¯s heart when she was only sixteen.


    To Daisy, Edward was the most special.


    He hadn¡¯t had the chance to grow up with her, thus forever stuck eight years ago.


    The one she could show vulnerability to, be coquettish with, feel wronged in front of, and act pitiful.


    He was the boy she loved.


    *


    The day Daisy was discharged was sunny.


    The winter sun wasn¡¯t strong. She wore a beige woolen dress over a high-neck sweater; both shades were pale, making her fair skin even more pronounced. She tied her hair in a ponytail, her fluffy long hair bouncing cheekily behind her as she walked, making her entire being more vibrant and lively.


    Edward took care of her discharge procedures, carrying the items the nurse had packed, walking with her from the inpatient department towards the hospital parking area.


    "My mom invited us to stay at home tonight," Edward said casually. "Her tailor made you some winter clothes; she wants you toe over and try them on."


    Daisy was replying topany emails on her phone and didn¡¯t turn her head upon hearing Edward¡¯s words. "I have to go back to work this afternoon, can you bring them over for me? My sizes are all there; they¡¯ll be close enough."


    Edward freed one hand, snatching the constantly tapping phone from Daisy¡¯s hand, his eyes narrowing dangerously, "What did the doctor tell you? Forgot right after discharge? You stayed in the hospital for a few days and now have a goldfish memory? Hm?"

 Chapter 225: Not Coming Back Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 225: Chapter 225: Not Coming Back Anymore</h4>


    "..."


    "Confiscated." Edward Stephens turned off the smartphone right in front of Daisy Ginger and inevitably slipped it into his own coat pocket.


    "Hey, you..." Daisy Ginger watched his actions, panicked, and couldn¡¯t help but reach out to grab it, only to have her wrist caught and pulled by the man.


    Now, Daisy Ginger found herself in a predicament¡ªneither able to break away nor stay put¡ªfeeling somewhat annoyed, she looked up at Edward Stephens. He was gazing straight ahead, leading her forward, speaking in a casual tone, "Like what you see?"


    "Hideous."


    Edward Stephens smirked slightly, nced at her, "Then why do you like it so much?"


    "..." Narcissist.


    With her phone confiscated, Daisy Ginger had no choice but to put aside replying to messages and resignedly let the man hold her hand and lead her to the car.


    Edward Stephens ced a bunch of misceneous items he was carrying on the backseat, then got into the driver¡¯s seat and set up the navigation.


    "Let¡¯s have some lunch first, then go home and take a nap. Tomorrow we have to meet Nichs Woods. Free up the next couple of days; let Oliver Rubio handle thepany."


    He nonchntly nned out her next two days.


    Daisy Ginger crossed her arms and raised her chin, "Since you¡¯re so capable, why don¡¯t you manage thepany for me?"


    Does he know how many deals she¡¯d lose out on by not going to thepany for a day, how much money she¡¯d stand to lose?


    Edward Stephens turned the car around, his tone icy, "This amount of money isn¡¯t even worth my attention."


    How arrogant.


    Daisy Ginger stomped hard on his foot, and Edward Stephens let out a light "hiss," gripping the steering wheel, "Don¡¯t fool around."


    After having a hearty meal at a nearby Cantonese restaurant, Daisy Ginger fussed about going back to Ginger Residence to get some things.


    Edward Stephens was unsure what she needed but said nothing, taking a turn towards Ginger Residence.


    When Daisy Ginger entered, the household staff seemed surprised to see her and were a beat slow in their movements to greet her.


    The house exuded a strange smell, and although it was her home for many years, it inexplicably felt like an unfamiliar ce.


    "Miss, you¡¯re back." The butler, receiving the news, hurried over, bowing and scraping to serve her. "Have you had lunch? What would you like to eat? I¡¯ll ask the chef to prepare it."


    Edward Stephens could tell that everyone in the Ginger house was a bit afraid of Daisy Ginger, attending to her with cautious diligence.


    "I¡¯m just grabbing something and will leave." Daisy Ginger¡¯s tone was extremely aloof as she pushed aside the servant blocking her path and headed upstairs.


    Once she left, the servants in the living room visibly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Though Daisy Ginger was assertive, she never did anything to anyone; it was unclear why these people were so afraid of her.


    Edward Stephens nced a few times at this group of Ginger household staff, masked his expression, and followed in Daisy Ginger¡¯s steps, apanying her upstairs.


    Daisy Ginger went straight to her bedroom, opened the door, and started rummaging around inside.


    Edward Stephens leaned against the doorway, watching her search through drawers and pull out a lot of things that, to him, looked like junk.


    An old photo album with a yellowing cover¡ªthe one she hadn¡¯t let him see before; a faded brown plush teddy bear that looked well-loved but had been kept very clean; and a wine-red lighter, appearing new and barely used.


    She tucked the lighter into her pocket, then hugged the teddy bear and photo album, turned around with satisfaction, and said to Edward Stephens at the door, "Let¡¯s go. I won¡¯t being back again."

 Chapter 226 "You’re really blaming her madness on me?

    <h4>Chapter 226: Chapter 226 "You¡¯re really ming her madness on me?</h4>


    Edward Stephens: "Just taking these few things?"


    "It¡¯s enough." Daisy Ginger said, "The rest can be repurchased."


    Edward Stephens watched her clutching the worn toy bear as if it were a treasure, his dark eyes deepening slightly. Then, in a casual tone, he said, "These dolls are everywhere on the street. I¡¯ll buy you a new one. No need to take it, it¡¯s all worn out."


    Daisy Ginger red at him, hugged the toy bear tightly, and snorted, "I just want this one. Who needs you to buy a new one!"


    With that, she didn¡¯t spare him a nce and trotted off downstairs in her high heels.


    Edward Stephens followed leisurely behind her, watching her hold that worn bear like a treasure; he felt a slight itch in his teeth, his gaze darkening.


    He truly never thought there woulde a day when he would be annoyed by a lifeless object.


    *


    Edward Stephens walked leisurely downstairs, and before reaching the bottom, he heard Abigail Perry¡¯s sharp voice: "Daisy Ginger, why did youe back!"


    Daisy Ginger seemed to ignore her. Without an answer, Abigail Perry insisted relentlessly: "You drove our Emily crazy, and you still have the nerve toe back! Daisy Ginger, you bitch, you owe our Emily two children, you owe us!"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s voice finally emerged, with a hint of anger: "Abigail Perry, let me go!"


    Edward Stephens¡¯ eyes darkened, he quickened his pace and descended the stairs. At the doorway, Daisy Ginger was held by Abigail Perry, her nails painted crimson and digging deeply into Daisy Ginger¡¯s flesh. Abigail Perry¡¯s face was twisted, as if she wished to poke holes in Daisy Ginger¡¯s body, scratching and wing at her while shouting loudly: "I won¡¯t let you go! Daisy Ginger! You took away Emily¡¯s Edward, killed her two children, and drove her insane! You wicked bitch, I won¡¯t let you off so easily!"


    Daisy Ginger was naturally fragile, wrapped up by Abigail Perry, holding a bunch of items in her hands, unable to break free immediately, her face bing uglier under her shoving.


    Edward Stephens strode over, tore Abigail Perry away, and shielded Daisy Ginger behind him, his handsome face cold and severe as he looked at the shrewlike middle-aged woman in front of him.


    Abigail Perry dared to act wild in front of Daisy Ginger, but not in front of a man like Edward Stephens. She was pulled off bnce, gasping for breath as she steadied herself and stared at Daisy Ginger behind Edward Stephens as if looking at a mortal enemy.


    Daisy Ginger noticed her hateful gaze and seemed to find it somewhat amusing. She stepped from behind Edward Stephens, stood by his side, looked at Abigail Perry, and asked mockingly, "Are you seriously ming me for her madness?"


    "Daisy Ginger!"


    Abigail Perry red at her, gritting her teeth.


    With Edward Stephens present, Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t afraid of her rushing over to make a scene. Sheughed at Abigail Perry, "Let alone what¡¯s really going on between Edward and Emily Ginger, just talking about Ian Linton and Emily¡ªwasn¡¯t it you who drove your own daughter insane?"


    Abigail Perry¡¯s breath hitched, her facial expression shifting rapidly until it settled on a hideous look.


    "What nonsense are you spouting? How could I drive my own daughter insane!"


    "If it wasn¡¯t you, then was it me?" Daisy Ginger tilted her head, "When Emily wanted to break off her engagement with Ian Linton, who forced her not to? Have you really not realized how your own daughter went mad after all this time? She was driven insane, bit by bit, by her own mother and her fianc¨¦."

 Chapter 227: Five Slaps

    <h4>Chapter 227: Chapter 227: Five ps</h4>


    "It was because you refused Emily¡¯s cry for help that she ended up like this..."


    "That night, it was true that I didn¡¯t think it through, but ultimately, wasn¡¯t it some people¡¯s vanity that pushed their own daughter into the wolves¡¯ den? Otherwise, why did she have to run through the rain to find Edward Stephens at my downtown vi when you were clearly at home? Wasn¡¯t it because her own mother was untrustworthy that she had to travel all that way and brave the rain to seek help from someone else? Auntie Perry, if you can¡¯t face it yourself, that¡¯s one thing, but shifting the me onto others doesn¡¯t mean you can pretend nothing happened and feel at ease, does it?"


    The hall was silent, and no one made a sound.


    Abigail Perry seemed frozen, her gaze fixed. It took her a long while before she slowly shook her head and whispered one word, "No..."


    She suddenly charged forward and lunged at Daisy Ginger. Daisy was caught off guard and was nearly hit, but Edward Stephens reached out and pulled Daisy behind him. Abigail failed to grab Daisy but managed to snatch the teddy bear from Daisy¡¯s arms.


    "..." Daisy stood behind Edward, staring at the teddy bear in Abigail¡¯s hand, her face changing slightly.


    Abigail¡¯s face turned pale. She looked at Edward, who was protecting Daisy, and then at Daisy behind him. Grinding her teeth, she said, "You are all in this together! You are all in this together! Emily didn¡¯t have to go crazy, but it was you," she pointed at Daisy¡¯s nose and cursed, "it was you who drove her to jump into the river andmit suicide, killing the two children in her womb! It was you! You hate me, don¡¯t you, Daisy? You hate me so much that you want topete with Emily for everything... Wrong has a cause, debt has a master! If you hate me,e at me, why harm Emily? She was so innocent, what did she do wrong?"


    Daisy¡¯s face looked very unpleasant, unwilling to argue with Abigail any further, she stretched out her hand coldly and said, "Give me back my stuff!"


    Abigail clutched the plush toy and looked down at it, then sneered at Daisy, "Now you know how to feel pain? You ruined the most precious thing to me, what does this little thing count for?"


    As if it wasn¡¯t enough, she violently picked up the bear and, right in front of Daisy, tore it forcefully along the patched seam, going crazy, ripping the bear into two halves! She probably wasn¡¯t really aiming at the teddy bear, but seeing how much Daisy treasured it, she just wanted to destroy it in front of her, to make her suffer.


    Edward Stephens raised his eyebrows slightly and nced at the torn teddy bear without much reaction, but Daisy from behind him rushed forward again. This time, she directly grabbed Abigail by the neck, kicked her to the ground, pinned her down, and pped her face four or five times viciously!


    "p, p, p, p!"


    The crisp sound of the ps made everyone who heard it feel their face hurt.


    Daisy didn¡¯t like to get physical with people; she found it degrading and ugly. Even when Abigail fought her, she didn¡¯t hit back at first.


    Though she loathed this woman, she still sympathized with the pressure of being a widowed mother with a mad daughter, but in her view, it was all self-inflicted.


    Abigail waspletely stunned by the beating, and when she came to, her throat felt choked.


    Daisy clutched her neck, her striking face expressionless, only her eyes, cold and devoid of warmth. Even when she held her neck, there was no particr emotional reaction, but this cold indifference was especially terrifying.

 Chapter 228: "Daisy Ginger.

    <h4>Chapter 228: Chapter 228: "Daisy Ginger.</h4>


    Abigail Perry was terrified, thinking Daisy Ginger was going to kill her.


    She never expected that breaking one of her toys would provoke such a big reaction.


    Abigail Perry struggled pathetically on the ground, shouting "Help" and "Murder!", and finally started coughing intermittently, only able to make faint sounds, unable to call out anymore.


    It seemed like she was more out of breath than taking it in.


    "Daisy Ginger."


    Edward Stephens¡¯ deep voice sounded from behind Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy Ginger was slightly startled, her nk expression gaining some rationality. She looked up at Edward Stephens, the man who had unknowingly walked up beside her, gazing at her intently.


    She pursed her lips, released Abigail Perry¡¯s neck, then turned around to pick up the torn-in-half, stuffing-spilled teddy bear from the ground.


    Inside the teddy bear were wires and a small ck box that seemed like it could make sounds, reminding Edward Stephens of such recording toys that were very popr back in his ce.


    Daisy Ginger lowered her head, holding the bear, then lifted her head to look at Edward Stephens.


    Her gaze was very clear, so clear that nothing inside could be discerned; she just looked at him deeply several times, then turned around, ignoring Abigail Perry who was cursing on the ground, and walked away.


    Edward Stephens bent down, picked up a clump of cotton from the ground, twisted it, then casually blew it away.


    "Call the police! You guys call the police!" Abigail Perry clutched her neck, leaning on the sofa and yelling, "I want her in jail! You all saw it, she was trying to kill me just now! Intentional murder, that¡¯s illegal!"


    Edward Stephens turned around, leisurely walked in front of Abigail Perry, and looked down at her.


    "..." Abigail Perry¡¯s curses slowly faded under the man¡¯s gaze.


    For some reason, being stared at by Edward Stephens¡¯ nonchnt eyes, she felt a fear like being watched by a snake.


    The biological instinct made her palms sweat, and this feeling was even more terrifying than when Daisy Ginger was choking her just now.


    "If you keep making trouble like this, I can¡¯t guarantee you¡¯ll continue freeloading at the Ginger Residence." The man put his hands in his pockets, leaning slightly toward her pale face. His tone was light, without any sense of threat, rather casual. "Emily needs you to take care of her, take care of her well, and don¡¯t make trouble anymore, hmm?"


    "..." Abigail Perry¡¯s face turned paler. She looked up at Edward Stephens, summoning the courage to grab his pant leg under the man¡¯s indifferent gaze, "Edward, Emily needs you, right? You still like Emily, don¡¯t you? Help me, help me take care of her, she¡¯s only twenty-four, she can¡¯t live like this forever..."


    Edward Stephens coldly kicked away her hand, stepped back a few steps, looked at the woman lying on the ground, meeting her incredulous gaze, his tone aloof: "Don¡¯t show up in front of me anymore. I¡¯m only helping you out of past sentiment. Since she¡¯s been discharged now, it shows she can live independently. From now on, I have nothing to do with you."


    Abigail Perry was stunned.


    Edward Stephens withdrew his gaze, no longer paying any attention to her, and turned to walk out of the hall.


    Daisy Ginger had been hospitalized for so long, but apart from her two friends, no family came to visit her.


    Emily Ginger got sick, at least Abigail Perry was there to take care of her.


    To talk about who¡¯s more pitiful, it definitely isn¡¯t Emily Ginger.

 Chapter 229: The old things of the past will eventually be replaced by the new.

    <h4>Chapter 229: Chapter 229: The old things of the past will eventually be reced by the new.</h4>


    In the car, Daisy Ginger sat in the passenger seat, a broken toy bear ced on herp, her head lowered, lost in thought.


    Edward Stephens opened the car door and got in. Seeing her dazed and sullen expression, he reached into the pile of torn fabric of the toy bear and pulled out the bunch of recording equipment inside.


    Daisy didn¡¯t react much, she only raised her head and gave him a nce.


    Edward toyed with the small ck recording box in his hand and asked Daisy, "What¡¯s inside?"


    "It¡¯s been broken for a long time, can¡¯t be fixed." Daisy said ndly, "...A birthday gift I once received."


    "Who gave it to you?"


    "..." Daisy nced at him, pursed her lips slightly, and said ndly, "It has nothing to do with you."


    Edward had given her quite a lot in the past, but she never knew how to cherish them, she lost some, broke some, and only when the person was gone did she subconsciously go back to sort things out.


    The memories left at the end turned out to be just this little bit.


    Originally, she thought that after moving out with Edward, it wouldn¡¯t matter if they never returned to that superficial home at Ginger Residence. She intended to take what she needed upon being discharged today, not expecting to run into Abigail Perry, that madwoman.


    Edward nced at her, put the recording box into his pocket, "I¡¯ll have it repaired in a week."


    Hearing this, Daisy actually started tough.


    She propped up her face, turned her head to look at him, "I¡¯ve visited many repair shops, and the professionals there said it couldn¡¯t be fixed. Are you better than those professional repairers?"


    Edward held onto the steering wheel, and said softly, "You can wait and see after a week."


    Seeing him so confident, the gloom in Daisy¡¯s heart lessened quite a bit. She didn¡¯t actually expect anyone to fix it; the contents weren¡¯t worth spending millions to repair, just a simple "Happy Birthday" left behind by someone.


    Now that Edward was back, how could any old object be more precious than having him alive and here?


    Daisy chuckled lightly, yet still gamely nodded, "Then I¡¯ll wait for you."


    After passing an intersection, the man suddenly pulled the car over to the side.


    Daisy was startled, nced at the surrounding tall buildings, and asked confused, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    Edward reached out his hand toward her, "Give me the bear."


    Daisy looked at his inscrutable expression and handed over the bear she was holding.


    "What¡¯s going on?"


    "I¡¯ll have it repaired for you."


    Finishing his words, he took the bear in his hand, got out of the car, and left.


    Repaired for her?


    That shabby and torn toy bear?


    Daisy leaned against the window and couldn¡¯t help but shout toward him, "Edward, stop messing around!"


    Fix it? She was nning to throw it away.


    Edward walked ahead with his back to her; hearing her voice, he waved a hand at her.


    Soon, his tall figure turned a corner and disappeared from her sight.


    Daisy couldn¡¯t figure out what kind of quirky idea was in Edward¡¯s head. Sitting in the car, she kept thinking about Edward¡¯s words ¡ª have it repaired for you.


    Somehow, this kind of inherently unconvincing statement,ing from his mouth, surprisingly seemed dependable.


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh. The gloomy mood influenced by Abigail was instantly reced by a sense of anticipation, brightening her spirits.


    "Thank you for shopping. Need it packed?"


    The cashierdy beamed at the young man who came to her counter, her gaze falling on the sharp lines of his profile, a hint of amazement shing in her eyes.


    "No need." The man scanned the code to pay, lowered his head, and pointed at the toy bear in his hand, "Please cut off the tag."


    The female cashier kindly helped cut off the tag, watching the man walk out of the store carrying the toy bear.


    Plush toys and young men, such a perfect match. Thedy¡¯s face flushed with excitement.


    *


    Edward held the newly bought bear with one hand, passed by a trash bin, and casually tossed the old one directly into it.


    After tossing the bear, he slid one hand into his pocket and walked straight back towards the car.


    From afar, he saw Daisy sitting by the window.


    She sat there hugging her knees, seemingly waiting for him, with a bored expression.


    Her long, fluffy hair tied up at the back, delicate features radiant under the sunlight.


    Edward squinted his eyes slightly, walked up, opened the car door, and tossed the new toy bear he bought onto Daisy¡¯sp.


    Daisy hadn¡¯t noticed him walking over; caught unprepared by a plush toy flung into her arms, she let out a startled yelp. When she realized, she picked it up to take a look.


    "Repaired it for you."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help butugh, she held the bear, eyes glistening like stars, looked at Edward, "Edward, are you silly?"


    Buying a new one for her meant it¡¯s repaired?


    The manzily got in the car, watching the smile on her face, his lips curled slightly too, "Don¡¯t they look alike?"


    "Quite simr..." Daisy touched it, "But it can¡¯t talk."


    "It will after it¡¯s repaired."


    Daisy squinted her eyes inughter, hugging the newly bought plush toy, "Then I¡¯ll barely expect it."


    Edward cast her a nce, let out a small chuckle, restarted the car, and drove forward.


    Old things of the past will eventually be reced by new ones.


    People too.


    *


    Ginger Residence.


    Abigail Perry shivering, trembling, got up from the ground.


    The servants gathered around, seeing her pale face and white lips, none dared to assist her.


    Abigail ignored them, stood up, turned around, wobbled and lost-hearted, and went upstairs.


    Downstairs, a group of servants stood together, watched the figure of the mistress leaving, feeling for some reason, the atmosphere of this house had be strange ever since Daisy moved out.


    The mad Second Miss and the neurotic mistress cast a gloomy smell over this old vi.


    Although the sry was generous, there had been about ten servants resigning in the past months intermittently.


    ...


    Outside Emily Ginger¡¯s room, there were untouched dishes ced.


    The carefully prepared and delicious food had already gone cold.


    Abigail suppressed the difort in her throat, stepped up and knocked on the door, speaking to her daughter inside the room, "Emily,e out and eat something, you haven¡¯t eaten breakfast nor lunch, how can your body take it."


    Inside the room, it was quiet, not a sound came out.


    Abigail listened to the silence and found it increasingly unbearable.


    She said hoarsely, "Emily, Mom only has you now, don¡¯t leave Mom alone... Today Daisy, that little bitch, came over, she and Edward ganged up to bully Mom, Emily, Mom is so pitiful now."


    Abigail leaned at the door, mutteringints quietly, thinking back to the days when she and Emily relied on each other. Although Daisy bullied her before, it was nothingpared to now being all alone! Since Emily went mad, while taking care of her, she lost contact with her old societydies and friends, now thinking about it, she couldn¡¯t even find a person to talk to anymore.

 Chapter 230: Return the favor in kind

    <h4>Chapter 230: Chapter 230: Return the favor in kind</h4>


    Abigail Perry thought of this and couldn¡¯t help but shed a few tears.


    She thought of her unfortunate fate. It was hard enough to attach herself to a wealthy man, but he turned out to be married; and when he was finally willing to marry her, he died in just a few years; she hoped her daughter could seed in life, only to be driven mad by Daisy Ginger!


    They say she harmed Emily Ginger? But if it weren¡¯t for Daisy taking Edward Stephens away, how could she have matched Ian Linton with Emily?


    She only...


    Wanted to find a good marriage for Emily!


    And now, all her efforts have been in vain.


    Ian Linton is caught, Emily is mad, and only Daisy is delighted with Edward!


    That woman is truly too vicious and heartless, even helping her own sister, and even forcing her beloved Emily to madness. It¡¯s all Daisy¡¯s fault...


    Abigail couldn¡¯t open her daughter¡¯s door, feeling distraught and lethargic, she returned to her own bedroom.


    Shey on the bed, sobbing bitterly,menting her bitter life, until her phone buzzed. She collected her tears and quickly picked it up to nce at it.


    Seeing the caller ID, Abigail immediately answered and shouted into the phone, "Mr. William!"


    A pleasing, maic male voice came through, its tone naturally carrying a hint of amusement, making her feel as if she were basking in spring sunshine even across the phone.


    "Miss Perry, what¡¯s the matter?"


    His ent carried a strong foreign tone, his artiction wasn¡¯t precise, but the voice was very low, as if someone had gently exhaled next to her ear, always making her earlobes burn.


    Abigail never would have thought that a mistakenly dialed number would connect her with a man from across the ocean.


    She had long passed the age of dreaming, wasn¡¯t a young girl anymore, but somehow, recently, she found herself eagerly anticipating his calls.


    She poured out all her life¡¯s bitterness and grievances to him; though he couldn¡¯t appear in front of her, his tone was always gentle, guiding her, and his advice was mature and reliable. If not for his young-sounding voice, she would¡¯ve suspected him to be a middle-aged man like her, past fifty.


    With no one to confide in Banyan City, Abigail grumbled to this stranger about the grievances she just suffered from Daisy and Edward.


    As she became emotional, she couldn¡¯t help but cry, "... I just hoped that we, as lonely orphans and widows, could have someone to rely on in the future, so I contested with her a bit, not realizing how vicious she could be, snatching someone away, and bullying my daughter. My daughter was driven mad by her, how am I supposed to live? I really wish I could strip her skin off!"


    The man listened quietly to herints, and when she paused, he softly spoke, "Your eldest daughter truly went too far."


    Abigail listened quietly, knowing he always provided excellent guidance.


    "You really should teach her a lesson."


    Abigail protested, "She¡¯s so powerful now, how can I dare teach her a lesson?"


    "Since she¡¯s destroyed the person you loved most, why not repay her in kind?" the man chuckled lowly, his hoarseughter resonating in her ear canal, making her blush and her heart race, "Doesn¡¯t she have someone she cherishes? Once she loses them, she¡¯ll understand your pain now."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 231: Sea Demon

    <h4>Chapter 231: Chapter 231: Sea Demon</h4>


    Abigail Perry indeed wanted to teach Daisy Ginger a lesson.


    But this intention was very secretive, deeply hidden, and at this moment, provoked by the man¡¯s slightly hoarse voice, it churned almost imperceptibly in her heart.


    She envies the daughter Alice Lesser left behind, who is too outstanding, overshadowing her and Emily Ginger. Despite her victory, making it impossible for Alice Lesser to appear before her anymore, she couldn¡¯t drive her daughter out of the Ginger Residence.


    In fact, she has to rely on her for survival.


    For the past eight years, she and Emily Ginger have lived cautiously in Daisy Ginger¡¯s shadow; and her daughter is also useless, fleeing faster than a rabbit upon seeing this sister in name, not daring to speak a word.


    The world knows Ginger Group has Daisy Ginger, a business genius, young and promising, under whose fame her face, far more beautiful than ordinary actresses, appears dull.


    Faced with absolute strength, a pretty face merely ys aplementary role, whether it¡¯s there or not makes no difference.


    And her Emily?


    She also is beautiful, studies hard, is kind-hearted, but what does she get under Daisy Ginger¡¯s shadow?


    Lost her studies, lost Edward Stephens, lost her child, even lost her mind.


    Shutting herself in her bedroom every day,pletely isting herself, even making it impossible for her mother tomunicate with her.


    With Daisy Ginger as the leadingdy, no matter how exceptional Emily Ginger is, she can only be a backdrop, a mere green leaf.


    "She doesn¡¯t sympathize with me at all... No matter how wrong I am, I¡¯ve already married in, I as an elder, lose facepletely before her younger generation, unable to lift my head." Abigail Perrymented, "William, if I give her a lesson, will she really behave better?"


    William gently said, "You¡¯re an elder, if you don¡¯t establish authority before her, you¡¯ll never be able to lift your head in her presence."


    "I just want her to know the pain of losing something she loves..."


    "I understand. She¡¯s in the wrong."


    The man¡¯s gentle and steady voice line, like a siren¡¯s song, can magnify the deepest hidden thoughts.


    So gentle, as if no matter what thought, under his promise, it seems right and executable.


    Abigail Perry hung up the phone, sat on the bed in a daze for a while.


    It¡¯s time to give Daisy Ginger a lesson.


    Otherwise, why should she suffer her daughter¡¯s misery without any retribution?


    Her unfortunate daughter lost everything, yet she is blissful with Edward Stephens.


    This world is too unfair.


    ...


    At a resort, a young man with a brilliant and refined face set down his phone. He sat in a wheelchair, propped his face, gazing at the shimmering sea outside the window and squinted his gentle eyes, smiling faintly.


    He wore a ck bathrobe,zily tied at the waist, his skin so fair it seemed sunlight could roll off his wrist. Brilliant gold cascaded through his hair tips, turning his jet-ck short hair a transparent ck chestnut color.


    And this exquisitely refined young man, at the moment, is infirm, which cannot help but evoke pity.


    The man took a sip of coffee, casually said to the person standing behind him, "Go ahead, and help her properly."


    His brother, having been out ying for so long, should prepare to bring him back.

 Chapter 232: Married Life

    <h4>Chapter 232: Chapter 232: Married Life</h4>


    Continuous rainy weather.


    Daisy Ginger looked up at the sky and suddenly sneezed.


    Edward Stephens walked over with an umbre, shielding Daisy from the rain drifting over her head.


    "I told you to wear a down jacket today, look at what you¡¯re wearing?"


    Daisy wrapped herself tighter in her stylish trench coat, unhappily retorting, "But it looks good!"


    Edward rolled his eyes, "You deserve to freeze."


    He reached out and pulled Daisy over to him. She willingly snuggled into his ck down jacket and wrapped her arms around his waist with afortable sigh.


    Edward nced at her sideways.


    Vain and afraid of the cold, she¡¯s a real piece of work.


    He pinched her fair, delicate cheek and then hugged her as they walked toward the door.


    As soon as the car door was opened, Daisy immediately jumped in and quickly turned on the air conditioning.


    Edward put away the umbre andzily got in, brushing the rain off his clothes.


    Today was Daisy¡¯s follow-up appointment with Nichs Woods. Her condition had improved a lot recently, and she rarely had nightmares anymore.


    She had quit the painkillers, but continued to take various antidepressants. This time, they wanted to see if the dosage could be reduced.


    Mostly because Daisy keptining that the more she took them, the more stupid she felt. Several times, she flushed the pills down the toilet behind his back.


    *


    Nichs Woods opened his office early and pushed aside his other consultations, only seeing Edward and Daisy, the couple.


    Watching Daisy walk in arm-in-arm with Edward, Nichs felt the familiar pang of a single man¡¯s loneliness.


    It started with the usual inquiry about her recent state, followed by a hypnosis sessionsting about half an hour, during which Edward wasn¡¯t allowed to be present.


    He went to the vent area and smoked a cigarette.


    Then he took out his phone and called Ryan Smith.


    The phone rang for a while but then naturally disconnected.


    Edward¡¯s brow furrowed slightly.


    It had been almost half a month without being able to contact Ryan, and his phone was unreachable.


    Though Ryan had changed his number in the past to avoid Gertie, this time, given the timing of his involvement in getting contacts from the United States to help Daisy, seemed too coincidental, and Edward couldn¡¯t help feeling a bit concerned.


    He checked the texts he had sent Ryan, all marked unread. He frowned, sending the same message again.


    "Need to discuss something important, contact me when you see this."


    The text went out, disappearing into the void as usual. With a "click," the consultation room door opened not far away. Edward stubbed out his cigarette and turned to see Nichs walking out of the room.


    Where is she?


    He asked with his eyes.


    Nichs¡¯s face wore a friendly smile, "Miss Ginger is a bit emotionally unstable right now and isn¡¯t ready toe out yet. Mr. Stephens, shall we have a chat?"


    Edward looked at him coolly, his tone calm: "What about?"


    Nichs adjusted his sses and asked with a smile, "About what I mentionedst time, how have you been doing with building an intimate connection?"


    Edward leaned against the railing, "Isn¡¯t she doing well now?"


    "With your involvement, Miss Ginger¡¯s treatment has indeed progressed rapidly," Nichs marveled. "Mr. Stephens, you¡¯ve really put in the effort."


    "Hmm." Edward responded inly.


    Daisy, this woman, was extremely self-centered and disobedient, truly a handful. Not putting in effort was not an option.


    Nichs adjusted his sses again, smiled, rubbed his hands together, and said to Edward, "The next question is just a routine one we psychologists ask, so don¡¯t be nervous."


    Edward turned his head to look at him.


    Nichs asked sincerely, "How often do Miss Ginger and Mr. Stephens engage in marital activities?"

 Chapter 233 Unspeakable Secrets…

    <h4>Chapter 233: Chapter 233 Unspeakable Secrets...</h4>


    "..." Edward Stephens remained silent, his deep eyes inscrutably watching him.


    Nichs Woods maintained a friendly smile, but cold sweat broke out on his neck under that gaze.


    "Ahem." He cleared his throat lightly, struggling to regain his voice, "Mr. Stephens, this is just a routine question we doctors ask. If you don¡¯t wish to answer, then..."


    "Not yet."


    Nichs almost bit his own tongue.


    His monolid eyes behind the sses lit up with a strange light, staring at Edward Stephens for a long time, until the man¡¯s expressionless gaze fell on his face. He then instinctively withdrew his gaze, awkwardly took off his sses and wiped them: "... If I remember correctly, you¡¯ve been married to Miss Ginger for half a year, right?"


    "..."


    "In the face of such a beauty as Miss Ginger... could it be that Mr. Stephens has some unspeakable secret?"


    Edward Stephens: "Is this the usual question you psychologists ask?"


    Nichs was taken aback, awkwardly withdrawing his gaze. He looked at the thick rain curtain outside the eaves and said, "A marital rtionship requires mutual effort from both parties. tonic interaction alone might not give Miss Ginger any sense of security. Does Mr. Stephens feel that maintaining such a rtionship with Miss Ginger is enough?"


    "Are you also working for the neighborhoodmittee now?"


    That was a subtle reminder for him to mind his own business.


    Nichs smiled wryly: "Miss Ginger is an old friend of mine. Naturally, I hope her marriage is happy and fulfilling."


    Edward Stephens said indifferently: "You¡¯re getting too involved."


    Nichs turned his head and looked at the young man¡¯s sharp and graceful profile beside him. He was gazing into the distance with a calm expression; his dark eyes revealed no trace of emotion.


    Nichs withdrew his gaze and sighed softly in his heart.


    "Miss Ginger¡¯s emotions are stable now, so she can indeed stop the medication for a while. But I¡¯m afraid this treatment period only addresses the symptoms, not the root cause. Her heart¡¯s knot is with you, and what I can do for her is limited to that extent. I¡¯m just a psychologist, not a prescription for her."


    "If Mr. Stephens truly wants Miss Ginger to bepletely cured, there must be some change in your rtionship moving forward."


    Edward Stephens understood the underlying meaning in his words. He furrowed his brow slightly and replied in a low tone, "Got it."


    Nichs was perceptive enough to know that Edward Stephens was a smart man and did not need further hints. He nodded, gave Edward a quick farewell, and left hastily for his office.


    Once Nichs left, the corridor instantly fell silent.


    The air was filled with a faint mist and the chilly moisture of winter lingered in each breath. Edward Stephens leaned against the railing, not caring about the water droplets sshing and wetting his clothes, and closed his eyes to rest his mind.


    He lit another cigarette until the consulting room door opened again, and Daisy Ginger peeked out from inside in her thin trench coat.


    "Edward." Upon seeing him, she called out in a hoarse voice and then gave a faint smile, "Nichs said I can stop the medication now."


    Edward Stephens looked up to see that her eyes were slightly red, and her once meticulously applied makeup had faded a bit, likely from crying and then washing her face inside.


    This woman, delicate and fragile like a fine porcin...


    Edward Stephens walked over, reached out, took Daisy Ginger¡¯s cold hand, and led her toward the door.


    "Let¡¯s go home."

 Chapter 234 Holding a Wedding

    <h4>Chapter 234: Chapter 234 Holding a Wedding</h4>


    As the year drew to a close, Daisy Ginger¡¯spany encountered a bit of trouble.


    An overseas employee stole business secrets from apetitor, was suspected of illegalpetition, and after being arrested, confessed at the police station that it was Daisy Ginger, the chairman of the Gingers, who instigated it.


    Daisy was still not fully recovered from her illness, and now she had awsuit to deal with. She received calls from the police station day in and day out, requiring her to cooperate with their investigation.


    Juggling work and trips to the police station, Daisy caught a cold and came down with a fever within a few days.


    Edward Stephens, picking her up to and from work, seeing her in such a state of illness, couldn¡¯t help but wish she would just take a leave.


    However, Daisy had a strong sense of responsibility, and apart from going to the hospital for injections and IV drips, she missed no work. Thepany was hers, so there was nothing Edward could do about it. Seeing that her cold wouldn¡¯t go away, he could only call Oliver Rubio to supervise her taking medicine on time every day.


    The winter weather remained gloomy, as if it were about to snow.


    Edward drove to the police station entrance to pick Daisy up and take her home.


    He parked in ce, watching Daisy walk out alone from the front gate of the police station. She wore a dark red wool coat, a scarf draped over her arm, carrying a brown bag, and dressed lightly; she looked thin and frail.


    In the vast police station, with peopleing and going, there was only her bit of red. Lonely and solitary, she moved, but seeing him get out of the car, she lifted her head, looked at him, and curved her beautiful eyes into a smile.


    Edward felt his heart hit hard by her smile.


    It seemed to be like this.


    No matter how tired or bitter she was, as long as she saw him, she still smiled beautifully.


    The kind of love she poured into him wholeheartedly was impossible not to be moved by.


    Nichs Woods¡¯ words echoed in his mind.


    You are her medicine. Only you can cure her.


    You also should transform your marital rtionship.


    You need to give her peace of mind.


    ...


    Edward opened his arms and caught Daisy as she flung herself into them, her body carrying a faint rose scent. She lifted her head and gently kissed his chin with her soft lips.


    "The trial can start tomorrow," Daisy said with a smile, "I have a good chance of winning this. He has no evidence at all to prove I instigated it."


    In this regard, Edward had a lot of trust in her.


    Daisy was not someone who would use underhanded tactics to achieve victory.


    She was too proud.


    Thus disdainful.


    She seemed very happy, and even after getting in the car, she kept talking to him.


    "Thewyer I found is very skilled at dealing with false usations. I don¡¯t need to go tomorrow; he can handle it for me."


    "I¡¯ve also investigated that employee thoroughly. He¡¯s a distant rtive of some old guy on the board who never liked me. Let them spend a few years in prison together."


    "Oh, and these past few days, the one who received us was the deputy chief who caught Ian Linton for usst time. He helped me a lot this time too. I need to find a day to thank him."


    "Daisy."


    Edward, driving, looked ahead and softly called her name, interrupting her rambling.


    "Hmm?" Daisy tilted her head and nced at him.


    "How many pounds did you lose this time?"


    "...Huh?" Daisy blinked, unable to grasp the meaning behind Edward¡¯s words, and slowly replied, "Three or four pounds, I guess? Why?"


    "When you reach a hundred pounds, we will have a wedding."


    Daisy¡¯s mind went nk, and even when Edward drove to the hospital, she had not yete to her senses.

 Chapter 235: You provoked me first, so I deceived you, and we’re even now, right?

    <h4>Chapter 235: Chapter 235: You provoked me first, so I deceived you, and we¡¯re even now, right?</h4>


    Infusion room.


    Daisy Ginger sat on the chair, with an IV drip attached to one hand.


    Edward Stephens sat beside her, ying on his phone with one hand.


    Daisy slowly turned her head, her thick eyshes blinking, and asked, "What does it mean to have a wedding?"


    Edward kept his eyes on the screen, without lifting his head: "It just means having a wedding."


    Daisy was not satisfied with this dismissive answer and reached out to snatch his phone away.


    The man tilted his head, nced at her, "Don¡¯t be naughty."


    Daisy slightly raised her chin, "Edward, say it a little clearer to me."


    Edward propped his face, looked at her expression, andzily smiled a bit.


    He smiled so beautifully it was heart-stirring.


    Daisy saw the glimmer in his eyes, and for some reason, her heart slightly sped up.


    It must be this fever, it¡¯ssted a bit too long, and hasn¡¯t gotten better yet.


    "What do you want to know clearly?" His tone was casual, as he met Daisy¡¯s distinct ck and white eyes, and smiled, "That I like you, or something else?"


    Daisy stared at him, her gaze somewhat stubborn, but her voice sounded a bit hoarse: "Then Edward, do you like me?"


    Edwardughed softly, he spoke warmly: "A little bit."


    Daisy¡¯s heart trembled, she couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips, "How much is a little bit?"


    "Maybe," the man lowered his eyes, gently sped her tightly clenched hand, Daisy¡¯s fingers were cool to the touch, slightly trembling at his touch. Edward held her hand, his tone was calm, "A little bit wanting to marry you."


    Daisy¡¯s puffed-up anger instantly dissipated, she felt like Edward¡¯s words had sapped her strength, her whole body softened, and she bowed her head, burying her face in his chest.


    She was feverish, breathing was hot, Edward raised his hand and wrapped her slender back.


    Daisy muttered softly, her tone unclear: "...You... it¡¯s okay."


    "Hmm?"


    "This is good."


    She closed her eyes, exhaled softly, "This is good."


    As long as he could love her again, she would be satisfied.


    Even if this love could never reach the intensity of the past, she would be satisfied.


    Her heart swelled, as if about to leap from her chest, Daisy simply didn¡¯t know what to say.


    She loved Edward, loved him so much it was suffocating, as long as she could be with him, she was willing to give anything.


    ...


    Daisyy in his arms, hugging him tightly for quite a while.


    Only when the drip finished and the nurse came over to help remove the needle, did she finally lift her little face from his embrace.


    Edward lowered his head, seeing Daisy¡¯s eyes bright and covered with a shimmeringyer of moisture, proud like a small fox with gleaming fur.


    She asked triumphantly, "When did you start liking me?"


    This unexpected reaction also startled Edward.


    Daisy remained smug, standing up from the chair, lifted her delicate chin, and kicked him with her foot, "I¡¯m asking you a question."


    This woman...


    Edward held his forehead, lowered his eyes and chuckled softly, somewhat hesitating whether to let her continue being smug, or to dete her a bit.


    "I don¡¯t know either." He leaned against the chair back, showing a careless attitude,zily raised his eyes to look at her, "Do you know when you started liking someone?"


    Daisy was momentarily surprised, realizing Edward¡¯s words were quite reasonable.


    When did she start liking Edward?


    She didn¡¯t know.


    She only knew, when she lost him, she realized she loved him deeply.


    "Let¡¯s go." The man stood up from the bench, took her slightly cool hand, "Going home."


    ...


    Edwardzily held Daisy¡¯s hand, walking towards the hospital exit.


    He raised an umbre, shielding them from the faint rain mist that began floating under the sky.


    He looked down, lowering his eyes to see Daisy beside him, from his angle, he could see her wless skin and long curled eyshes.


    Such a captivating beauty.


    He could now calmly appreciate her beauty, from a man¡¯s perspective.


    He didn¡¯t know when he started having feelings for her.


    He only knew, it was the first time he felt sorry for a woman.


    Wanting to stay and take care of this lonely woman, even if it meant telling lies all his life.


    Edward slowly turned his head, lowered his eyes to nce at the smile on Daisy¡¯s face, interlocking his fingers with hers.


    It¡¯s you who first drew me in, so deceiving you means we¡¯re even, right?


    *


    Although Daisy was quite happy about the wedding, she wasn¡¯t in a rush.


    For one, her weight.


    She only weighed around eighty pounds now, a dozen pounds short of Edward¡¯s requirement of a hundred pounds.


    Even pig farming couldn¡¯t fill in that much in a month.


    Secondly, thepany.


    An ongoingwsuit required manpower and resources, and also exposed a bunch of board members¡¯ and employees¡¯ personal corruption, nepotism, stuffing thepany with their people.


    Near the year¡¯s end, she fired over a hundred people at once, causing panic throughout Ginger Group, with everyone fearing they might be next.


    Oliver Rubio couldn¡¯t watch, came over and told her to proceed gradually, firing that many old employees at once spreads fear, making it hard to lead the team.


    Daisy ignored him, firing people first, recruiting new hires afterwards, Ginger was arge corporation with annual revenue of over a hundred billion, even at year-end, it wasn¡¯t hard to recruit excellent graduates and management personnel.


    Though thepany stabilized internally, the board of directors were upset with her for firing the people they inserted, several of them argued with her, used her of disrespect, and allied with other major shareholders to impeach her.


    Daisy didn¡¯t hold much stock, during the family estate division, Gabriel Ginger gave sixty-five percent to Abigail Perry, only granting her management and operational rights, letting Abigail be at ease as a parasite living off the inheritance.


    At year¡¯s end, while otherpanies¡¯ chairs were starting their long vacations, Daisy was driven to distraction by herpany¡¯s internal struggles.


    Her weight didn¡¯t go up, so there was no need for a wedding dress, sometimes after showering, when Edward cast a nce at her scarcely fleshed waist, Daisy felt an inexplicable sense of shame...


    These days, being skinny is wrong! Where¡¯s the justice!


    Daisy¡¯s trouble with herpany¡¯s own people also reached Edward¡¯s ears.


    The man didn¡¯t show much reaction, just casually asked if she needed his help.


    No way Daisy would dare ask him for help, Ginger Group might be a storm in Banyan City, but internationally, it doesn¡¯t rank among the top hundred, if the Stephens, amercial giant stepped in, her internal conflicts might be resolved, but what if herpany got annexed?


    Edward wasn¡¯t surprised at her refusal, thepany was Daisy¡¯s, naturally she dictated it, only asionally squeezed her waist, hinting she ought to fatten herself up.

 Chapter 236 Daisy Ginger firmly refuses to give Edward Stephens this advantage.

    <h4>Chapter 236: Chapter 236 Daisy Ginger firmly refuses to give Edward Stephens this advantage.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was made ufortable.


    What frightened Daisy Ginger even more was that whenever she came out of the bathroom in her pajamas after taking a shower, she¡¯d always receive a meaningful nce from Edward Stephens, who was lying in bed reading.


    His gaze was different from how he used to look at her, carrying a disturbing warmth that seemed to measure her from head to toe, as if she weren¡¯t wearing pajamas at all, making her skin crawl.


    This made Daisy Gingerter on avoid wearing thin pajamas in front of him, and she¡¯d wrap herselfpletely to avoid giving the man any opportunity.


    Edward didn¡¯t say much about it, he would just asionally give her a casual smile when she was bundled uppletely, a smile so meaningful that it made Daisy¡¯s legs weak, and she couldn¡¯t help but curse Edward a thousand times in her mind.


    Despite sleeping and eating together with Edward for some time, nothing substantial happened between them; they would kiss and hug but were as innocent as elementary schoolers. And now, he¡¯s teasing her with his eyes¡ªthis man is really repressed.


    Daisy Ginger firmly refused to let Edward take advantage of her.


    *


    During the end of the year, Edward Stephens was truly enjoying his time.


    Reading books, teasing Daisy Ginger, and asionally taking her to visit Nichs Woods for re-examination, his days were very rxed.


    He spent almost his whole life surrounded by programs and numbers; except for his carefree youth, there wasn¡¯t much time for his mind to be truly at ease, but in Banyan City, he found the long-lost peace.


    Edward Stephens wasfortable, but Daisy Ginger was almost overwhelmed.


    Not only did Edward asionally stare at her predatory-like in bed, but thepany¡¯s issues were also unraveling like a tangled yarn, bing increasingly troublesome.


    First, it was awsuit with thepetitor; as soon as that was over, the board had some issues, and before they finished with the board, a contract worth nearly a billion dors had problems. Someone stole thepany¡¯s private seal and signed the contract with anotherpany, requiring billions in breach penalties.


    While handling this series of problems, Daisy Ginger subtly realized someone was deliberately targeting her. She was too busy to settle down and investigate, as if ying Whac-a-Mole, pressing down one here only for another to pop up there.


    She was exhausted, her old ailments were about to return, and the leg broken by Ian Linton was aching faintly in the cold winter.


    But she couldn¡¯t afford to take a leave; only when Edward Stephens noticed her odd gait did he forcibly carry her to the hospital for a checkup.


    Inside the car.


    The two had an argument, leading to a cold war.


    There was no other way, Daisy Ginger¡¯s leg was nearly crippled, yet she still refused to go to the hospital, which forced Edward Stephens to act, binding her and putting her in the car.


    As Daisy Ginger crossed her arms, she fumed over being carried over Edward¡¯s shoulder into the car earlier!


    All the servants were watching, how could she maintain her dignity!


    That wretched man!


    Edward Stephens had looked up Daisy¡¯spany¡¯s recent situation online and asked her indifferently, "Is someone trying to make you leave the board?"


    Daisy Ginger paused for a moment. The Gingers used to be Lesser Group, founded single-handedly by her mother¡¯s parents. After their only daughter married Gabriel Ginger, thepany shares transferred to him, leading to aplete transformation.


    Thispany is the only thing Alice Lesser left behind, and Daisy has no way topete for shares against Abigail Perry and her daughter, only gritting her teeth to maintain control over thepany¡¯s operations, not letting those rtives eyeing her chairman position take thepany away.


    Over the years, she¡¯s made no decision-making mistakes; even if some wanted to impeach her, they couldn¡¯t.


    Now thinking about it, though thepany¡¯s profits lost billions from this series of moves, the most important thing was destroying her reputation among the board members¡ªthose shareholders who once supported her were now displeased because she had resigned their rtives and friends they inserted into thepany.


    At the year-end conference, if thepany¡¯s performance drastically decreases, she might really get impeached and ousted from her chairman position.


    At that time, she¡¯d just be a high-level employee at the Gingers, a titr president with only operational power but no decision-making authority,pletely severing her connection with Alice Lesser¡¯spany.


    Seeing her facial expression shift dramatically, Edward Stephens knew he likely hit the mark, not saying anything further to provoke her, only giving a reminder, "See who benefits the most from these operations."


    "Hmm." Daisy Ginger had a few suspects in mind, and Edward¡¯s words dampened her earlier anger.


    Regarding human nature, she couldn¡¯t see as far as Edward; her insights weren¡¯t as sharp as his.


    *


    In the orthopedic department of the hospital, the results came out quickly after an X-ray.


    Her bones were healing well, but due to inadequate rest, walking too long, andbined with a cold and fever, her leg injury had inmed again, necessitating anti-inmmatory medication for theing days.


    Knowing her bones were fine, Daisy sheathed a sigh of relief, having had enough of lying in bed unable to move daily. Upon hearing she only needed anti-inmmatory meds, she immediately rxed, daringly saying in front of Edward, "See, I told you I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m very healthy."


    Daisy concealed her expression, casting a doubtful nce at Edward, and shuddered when she met his gaze, wisely choosing to shut her mouth.


    She had a premonition that if she dared provoke any further, she¡¯d have a terrible night for sure...


    Edward gave her a sidelong nce, snorted, and disdainfully said, "Coward."


    He took the prescription to the pharmacy to get Daisy Ginger¡¯s medicine.


    Daisy watched his leisurely back, pouting.


    Ever since Edward confessed to her, she didn¡¯t manage to control him as expected; instead, he was controlling her thoroughly.


    It was no different than before his confession...


    *


    Pouring a cup of hot water and giving Daisy the medicine, Edward Stephens then let her go.


    "Come back early tonight." The man put the medicine in his overcoat pocket, pinched her cheek, "I¡¯ll check on my mom at home, might not make it to pick you up this afternoon."


    Daisy hugged him, looking up and pouting, "Then I want a kiss."


    Edward chuckled softly and bent down to touch her lips before ruffling her hair, "Good girl."


    Daisy pressed down her lips, stubbornly saying, "I know how to drive too, you don¡¯t need to pick me up."


    "Then I won¡¯t pick you up anymore?"


    "You dare!"


    The man chuckled lightly, reaching to adjust her scarf, then held Daisy¡¯s hand, softly saying, "Let¡¯s go."


    After a few steps, Daisy¡¯s phone rang; she reached out and took it out, ncing at the caller ID, which was the director from Greenhill Hospital.


    Daisy¡¯s brow furrowed, feeling uneasy as she answered the call, "Hello?"


    Edward looked down at her expression; Daisy¡¯s face turned instantly pale after hearing what the person on the line said.


    "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "My mom," Daisy said nkly, lifting her head to look at Edward, "is in this hospital."

 Chapter 237: She Is Also a Mother’s Child

    <h4>Chapter 237: Chapter 237: She Is Also a Mother¡¯s Child</h4>


    Edward Stephens¡¯ face changed slightly as he gripped Daisy Ginger¡¯s cold, lifeless hand and led her toward the emergency room.


    Daisy quickly found the female dean who had just called her at the entrance of the emergency room corridor.


    Seeing her arrival, the other woman¡¯s anxious face also showed a hint of tension. As she approached to greet Daisy, Daisy reached out and pushed her aside, her face turning ashen as she walked expressionlessly toward the emergency room.


    The female dean¡¯s face showed a hint of embarrassment, but more so panic. Because Greenhill Hospital had epted Daisy¡¯s mother, the Ginger Group allocated a substantial aid fund to the hospital for basic construction every month. Over the years, due to Daisy¡¯s donations, the hospital had almost no issues with funding shortages.


    Correspondingly, Greenhill Hospital provided the best doctors and equipment for Alice Lesser¡¯s treatment.


    For this reason, Daisy had always trusted Greenhill Hospital.


    When Daisy arrived, Alice had already been taken into the resuscitation room for emergency treatment.


    Daisy stood at the door, looking at the tightly closed operating room, feeling a chill rising and falling in her chest.


    Her hands and feet were cold, even her lips were pale. She stared at the door of the resuscitation room for a moment before slowly turning her head to look at the dean of Greenhill Hospital behind her.


    Daisy: "What happened?"


    Her voice was so suppressed that it was full of cracks, sounding rough and hoarse.


    Under Daisy¡¯s ominous gaze, the female dean couldn¡¯t lift her head. "Alice... somehow, she went to the garden alone. By the time we got there, she¡¯d already fallen into the pond..."


    Daisy¡¯s figure swayed slightly. Edward, standing behind her, reached out and supported her. She closed her eyes, pushed Edward¡¯s hand away, and stood straight despite her leg injury, like a sword about to snap.


    "...I didn¡¯t even get to see her just now." Daisy said quietly. "If she can¡¯te out alive this time, it means I didn¡¯t get to see my mom for thest time either."


    Daisy looked at the female dean in front of her, her voice lowered, hoarse, as if to carve wounds into hearts: "I don¡¯t care what your reasons are, but if anything happens to my mom, this hospital doesn¡¯t have to stay open, and your family won¡¯t need to stay in Banyan City either. I don¡¯t give millions every year for my mom to die in your hospital."


    The female dean¡¯s face turned pale instantly. Unable to help herself, she looked up at Daisy, just as she was about to defend herself, Daisy had already pushed her aside and walked out of the emergency room corridor.


    Daisy¡¯s head throbbed with pain, even the pain in her leg that the medication had just suppressed red up again. She walked to the vent, trembling as she reached into her pocket for a cigarette. Just as she was about to take out a lighter, a man came forward and pinched the hand holding the cigarette.


    Daisy looked up, her pale face showing an unbearable expression of pain, and she met Edward¡¯s deep-set eyes, then pleaded in a low voice, "Edward, if I don¡¯t smoke, I¡¯m going to lose it..."


    Edward raised his hand and pulled her frail, thin body into his embrace. Daisy, powerless, let him hold her. Her face buried in his chest, she made a low, wounded animal-like whimper from her throat, trembling all over.


    Even though she could be considered alone all these years, as long as Alice was alive and she could visit her mother at the hospital once a month, she still had a mother.

 Chapter 238: I’m So Happy, Mr. William

    <h4>Chapter 238: Chapter 238: I¡¯m So Happy, Mr. William</h4>


    People¡¯s hearts are so strange; as long as they know Alice is still here, they feel that their connection to this world is still intact.


    The moment Daisy thinks Alice is no longer here, she feels like she¡¯s about to be drowned in the world¡¯s loneliness.


    In this world, she has be an orphan without parents, and the years of painstakingly preserving Alice¡¯s firm¡¯s significance seem to have vanishedpletely.


    Daisy leaned into the man¡¯s embrace, holding him quietly for a while, then with reddened eyes, she looked up at Edward and said, "I still need to talk to the dean."


    Edward looked down at her, "I¡¯ll go with you."


    Daisy seemed to want to give him a usual smile, but before her mouth could move, tears were about to fall. She turned her head away, took a breath, and nodded.


    An incident at the hospital brought the police quickly. Daisy saw the surveince footage of Alice leaving on the police¡¯sptop.


    The footage showed Alice opening the door alone in the ward and wandering aimlessly from the inpatient department to the garden, during which not a single nurse or doctor stopped her.


    The female dean exined that today at noon was the regr meeting day for nurses and doctors, coinciding with the time Alice left. It wasn¡¯t until the meeting ended and the nurses couldn¡¯t find anyone in Alice¡¯s room that they started frantically searching.


    Finally, they found her in the garden¡¯s pond.


    Edward looked down, flipped through the video, and asked, "Is this all there is?"


    The female dean nced at him, somewhat nervously replying, "There are cameras in the garden as well, but there was a thunderstormst night, and the lightning seemed to have damaged the wireless connections, making the video footage unavable."


    Edward said coolly, "So essentially, you¡¯re not certain whether she fell in on her own?"


    This made the female dean¡¯s face turn more unsightly. If Alice merely fell into the pond by herself, it would be a case of poor management by the hospital. But if she didn¡¯t fall in on her own, then... it could be deliberate murder.


    These arepletely different judgment levels.


    Standing aside, pale-faced Daisy coldly said, "I¡¯ll pay for it, no matter the cost, I want the truth." She looked at the female dean, "Otherwise, your whole family can apany you in jail."


    Running a private hospital inherently carries some gray ie, and once uncovered, it is indeed illegal.


    The female dean understood Daisy¡¯s implication, lowered her head, and dared not speak again, only nodding hesitantly.


    After Daisy finished speaking, she sat on a bench, feeling overwhelmed, her chest heaving violently until Edward came over and held her cold, stiff fingers.


    At this moment, it seemed that only this man beside her could bring her a shred of reality¡¯s warmth.


    Daisy looked up, her gaze somewhat confused, then tightly grasped Edward¡¯s fingers, her voice barely audible: "Edward... don¡¯t leave me..."


    Suddenly, she felt her connection to this world was only Edward.


    Edward¡¯s deep eyes quietly apanied Daisy for a while. Then he went to speak with the police again, who looked at him in surprise, reluctantly nodding under Edward¡¯s persuasion.


    When Daisy saw him return, she questioned him with her eyes. The man sat beside her on the bench, gently shook his head at her: "Nothing much. I asked them to send over the footage from the garden. I¡¯ll see if I can restore it."


    Daisy lowered her head, looked at her hand held by Edward, and softly asked, "Do you think... someone wants to harm my mom..."


    Edward: "Just trying to find out what exactly happened. Not necessarily..."


    "...if it really is someone..." Daisy¡¯s voice was low, with a hint of confusion, "Could it be because of me..."


    She painfully bent down, her pale face showing an unbearable expression of pain.


    Edward frowned slightly and gently tightened his grip on Daisy¡¯s hand.


    His heart, because of Daisy¡¯s pain at this moment, was filled with a hint of hidden anger.


    Indeed, if someone...


    His dark pupils shed with malice.


    *


    Alice¡¯s surgery continued until nine o¡¯clock in the evening and had not concluded.


    Daisy stayed behind, waiting anxiously at the door until she was almost numb.


    At nine-thirty, someone walked down the emergency room corridor, the crisp sound of high heels ringing out. Daisy hugged her knees, heard the footsteps, and turned her head to look over.


    She saw Abigail Perry walking over dressed morously, wearing a fur coat and carrying a thermos bottle in her hand.


    Recently, not sure why, she seemed to have emerged from Emily Ginger¡¯s shadow, started skincare and makeup again, dressing up ten years younger, her radiant face filled with joy.


    Daisy sat there, coldly watching as she approached, seeing Abigail Perry ce the thermos bottle beside her without reacting.


    Abigail Perry said, "I just got the news your mom had an ident, the surgery taking so long, you surely haven¡¯t had dinner! I had someone make something you love, eat it while it¡¯s hot."


    Daisy looked at her, slightly frowning, her cold face showing no reaction.


    "A few days ago, it was indeed Auntie¡¯s fault," Abigail Perry smoothed her beautifully styled hair, lowered her eyes and smiled at Daisy, apologizing, "Auntie shouldn¡¯t have taken it out on you, Auntie apologizes, Daisy, we¡¯re all family, don¡¯t be mad at Auntie, okay?"


    Daisy leaned against the bench, slightly raised her pointed chin, expressionless as she looked at Abigail Perry: "Who¡¯s family with you?"


    Abigail Perry paused slightly, then sighed: "Auntie has indeed wronged you over the years... but in the future, our family only has the two of us relying on each other."


    Daisy sneered: "What, you want me to support you in your old age?"


    She never gave Abigail Perry any kind of pleasant face.


    Abigail Perry didn¡¯t seem to know what pill she took, her attitude was unusually earnest,bined with her breezy look, making Daisy suspect she¡¯d been possessed, actingpletely different.


    Abigail Perry pestered her for a while until Daisypletely ignored her. She took a look at Daisy¡¯s worn-out appearance, softly offered sympathies for Alice and her, then turned alone and left.


    Daisy watched her back, then looked down at the thermos bottle Abigail Perry had brought, touching it, the metal case still warm from the food inside.


    She furrowed her brow, not understanding what Abigail Perry¡¯s purpose was for visiting today.


    Around the corner, Abigail Perry leaned on the wall,ughing until she bent over.


    She picked up her phone,ughing while calling William: "Mr. William, I am so happy, you should have seen her pathetic look, I really want to personally send you a picture, so you can see!"

 Chapter 239: Double Happiness Arrives

    <h4>Chapter 239: Chapter 239: Double Happiness Arrives</h4>


    Abigail Perry wasughing so hard that tears were about toe out.


    Just thinking about Daisy Ginger sitting in front of the operating room, with that pale and pitiful expression, made her want tough.


    The joy of revenge in her heart even overshadowed the pain of Emily Ginger going mad. Just thinking about how Daisy Ginger was now more miserable than she was, filled her with such joy that she couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud!


    Over the years, she hadn¡¯t dared to make a peep in front of Daisy Ginger, and now on reflection, she realized how naive and ridiculous she had been!


    What¡¯s so frightening about Daisy Ginger?


    She¡¯s just a woman whom she easily destroyed. The feeling of controlling her pain was simply too intriguing! Seeing that pale, bloodless face stirred an indescribable pleasure in her heart.


    "Are you satisfied now?" The man¡¯s gentle and maic voice carried a soft smile, causing Abigail Perry¡¯s heart to race a little.


    Even through her heavy makeup, a hint of bashfulness appeared on her face, and her voice lowered slightly: "Mr. William, you are amazing! You were right; to deal with someone like Daisy Ginger, only by making her experience the same can she understand how much pain I went through!"


    Abigail Perry¡¯s heart was filled with an indescribable exhration, the grievances of years dissipatingpletely. Listening to the low chucklesing from the man¡¯s phone, she felt an indescribable thrill.


    She felt as if she had suddenly be twenty years younger, never having felt so carefree. The feeling of having someone to share everything with, someone willing to listen to her and plot for her, this light, satisfying feeling...


    Unable to contain her emotions, Abigail Perry blurted to the man on the phone: "Mr. William, once things settle down, shall we meet?"


    For the first time in her life, she felt an indescribable impulse, feeling that missing out on such apatible man in mind and soul would be a lifelong regret!


    This must be true love, she thought excitedly. She had never felt this way before... Being with Gabriel Ginger was all about his money, but for this person, even if he had nothing, she would be willing to support him for a lifetime! After all, she now had plenty of money!


    "Meet?" The man considered his words, his voice gentle, making Abigail Perry¡¯s heart skip a beat. "But... I can¡¯t travel far."


    Abigail Perry was taken aback, "William, Mr. William, what¡¯s wrong?"


    "I probably never told you," the man¡¯s voice was still so gentle, warm like the sun, yet sounding a bit mncholic, "I once had a car ident and can only sit in a wheelchair for the rest of my life..."


    Listening to his low voice, Abigail Perry felt so heartbroken she was about to cry, "Oh, Mr. William, I don¡¯t mind these things. As long as we can meet, I... I can support you for a lifetime!"


    The other partyughed lowly again, that deep, softugh resonated in her ears, like a sharp w hooking her heart, making her feel both anxious and blushing.


    After a while, she heard William chuckle and say, "Alright. Once things end, we shall meet."


    At that moment, Abigail Perry felt like she was in heaven. Holding her phone like a giddy teenager, she couldn¡¯t help but giggle for a while before leaving the elevator, still in a daze.


    This was a double joy, Abigail Perry thought. She had crushed the pride of Daisy Ginger and found a soulmate. Even when she rose to power by marrying into the Ginger Residence as a mistress, she had never been this happy!

 Chapter 240: I No Longer Have a Mom

    <h4>Chapter 240: Chapter 240: I No Longer Have a Mom</h4>


    Edward Stephens brought dinner upstairs and saw the thermos bottle beside Daisy Ginger. He walked over and asked, "What¡¯s this?"


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s expression was somewhat nk and exhausted. Terror and sorrow weighed heavily on her heart, gradually numbing her nerves over time. Besides the asional suffocating pain, it was no longer as painful as initially.


    Daisy Ginger opened her eyes and nced at him, saying indifferently, "Abigail Perry sent it."


    The mention of this name lightly raised Edward Stephens¡¯ eyebrows. He asked, "Do you want to eat it?"


    Daisy Ginger shook her head, "Throw it away."


    Edward Stephens casually tossed the thermos bottle into the trash can and then handed Daisy Ginger a cup of hot milk.


    "Did shee to see you?"


    "My mom¡¯s incident came to her attention." Daisy Ginger cradled the hot milk, feeling its warmth soothe her icy palmsfortably. She was somewhat fatigued, her voice weak, "She just came to watch the spectacle."


    Edward Stephens didn¡¯t speak, his gaze bing deeper as he sat down beside Daisy Ginger.


    Daisy Ginger closed her eyes and rested her head on Edward Stephens¡¯ shoulder.


    At present, only hispanionship could make her feel slightly rxed.


    She dared not imagine how it would feel if Edward hadn¡¯t returned, leaving her to face all this alone.


    She would certainly gopletely insane...


    Perhaps bing a lunatic would mean no longer feeling any pain.


    Are those who be mad also trying to escape reality in this way?


    She slowly exhaled a breath.


    *


    The surgerysted until twelve thirty.


    The critical condition notice was issued twice.


    From the surveince, from when Alice Lesser left to when the nurse found her missing and started searching, a whole hour psed.


    Because there was no surveince in the garden, no one knew when Alice Lesser fell into the pond. When rescued, she still had a pulse.


    But Daisy Ginger also knew that drowning suffocation can im a life in just minutes; this time, Alice Lesser indeed faces grim odds.


    She calcted rationally and calmly, yet her heart ached from being tightly clenched, making breathing difficult.


    The red light turned off, and the doctor pushed Alice Lesser out of the operating room.


    Daisy Ginger immediately stood up from the bench, her gaze fixed on Alice Lesser¡¯s face, her hair white, her snow-white face covered by an oxygen mask, breathingboriously and painfully. She opened her mouth to call out "Mom," staggering a step, before standing firmly.


    She walked over to ask the chief doctor about Alice Lesser¡¯s condition.


    The doctor, having operated on Alice Lesser for nearly twelve hours, looked at her with fatigue and sympathy, gently shook his head.


    "...Wasn¡¯t brought in time," he said, "The asphyxiationsted too long, causing brain death; there¡¯s a high probability she won¡¯t wake up."


    Daisy Ginger asked dumbfoundedly, "...Won¡¯t wake up, what does it mean?"


    The doctor looked at her face, hesitated for a moment, and said, "A vegetative state."


    Daisy Ginger froze, her eyes widened, yet she couldn¡¯t see clearly, her vision blurred, as if the sky suddenly darkened, leaving her unable to see anything.


    She fainted.


    And then, she awoke again.


    When she awoke, the sky was still dark. Shey on the hospital bed with glucose dripping into her arm.


    Edward Stephens sat on the sofa beside her, eyes slightly closed. Hearing her movement, he slowly opened his eyes and looked at her.


    "Edward." She softly called his name, "Do you remember? I once promised you to take you to see my mom."


    "..."


    "My mom has been mad for a long time." Daisy Ginger closed her eyes, her voice remained gentle, "She hasn¡¯t recognized me for seven or eight years. But she used to be really wonderful, the best mom in the world."


    "Even if she¡¯s insane and doesn¡¯t remember me, she¡¯s still my mom."


    "I always thought she¡¯d get better, as long as I stayed by her side, she¡¯d eventually recognize me."


    "I always believed... she wouldn¡¯t leave me alone, wouldn¡¯t neglect me."


    Daisy Ginger paused for a long time before speaking softly again.


    "But now, my mom is gone."


    Her body began to tremble slightly, suppressed sobs erupted from her curled-up form.


    She didn¡¯t understand why destiny chose to treat her this way; just when she struggled so hard to find a bit of happiness, it would snatch away herst remaining, most precious things.


    She fought so desperately to preserve thepany for Alice Lesser, even willingly supporting Abigail Perry and Emily Ginger, all to hopefully one day, when Alice woke up, she¡¯d see everything she¡¯s done and feel a bit happier.


    Although Gabriel Ginger didn¡¯t want her anymore, Daisy Ginger had always been waiting for her.


    But now, it seemed fate was mocking her, for all she¡¯s done over the years, she would never see.


    The road seemed to copse suddenly, telling her there was no need to continue, no need anymore.


    Edward Stephens walked over, lifted her along with the nket from the bed.


    Her breath was humid and warm, carrying the scent of the sea; warm liquids soaked the fabric on his shoulder.


    Battered and broken.


    If he truly loosened his hold, she might actually die.


    She¡¯s be so fragile...


    Edward Stephens gently brushed her hair, a faint trace of pity shing in his gaze.


    *


    The police, citing mismanagement, took away the female director of Greenhill Hospital.


    Alice Lesser¡¯s case continues to be investigated.


    Many points of suspicion remain.


    For instance, how could she open the door even with the lock flipped?


    Who opened the door?


    Why did the garden surveince equipment happen to break on that day, and did Alice really fall into the pond by herself?


    Daisy Ginger, under a barrage of blows, suffered the return of her leg issues alongside depression, taking medication, leaving her groggy, unable even to properly handle business matters.


    While she was hospitalized, Abigail Perry seized the excuse of visiting to check on her several times.


    As Daisy Ginger¡¯s condition worsened, Abigail Perry seemed to be thriving, like she had absorbed someone¡¯s essence, looking utterly different from usual, unting her newfound charisma daily.


    Daisy Ginger even asked the family maid if Abigail Perry had been sneaking out with any man recently, but the maid reported that Abigail Perry stayed home all day, only going out to the beauty salon and put on makeup when necessary.


    No one knew whom she was dressing up for.


    Daisy Ginger trulycked the energy to bother with her, assuming she must¡¯ve taken the wrong medication recently; her focus was on Alice Lesser, continuously pressuring the police to thoroughly investigate Alice Lesser¡¯s case.


    She herself didn¡¯t even know what answer she was hoping for - whether it was an idental fall or someone pushed her?


    No matter which answer, it would undoubtedly bring her immense pain.

 Chapter 241 She Still Has Edward Stephens.

    <h4>Chapter 241: Chapter 241 She Still Has Edward Stephens.</h4>


    It¡¯s snowing.


    When Daisy Ginger woke up, she saw a vast expanse of white outside.


    She had been in the hospital for the past few days, taking medicine and getting injections, feeling a bit weak. She gazed at the snowy scene outside for a while before slowly sitting up from the bed.


    Something soft suddenly fell out of her arms. Instinctively, Daisy grabbed it, and when she looked down, she saw it was a brown toy bear.


    She must have pressed something identally, as the bear suddenly made a sound¡ª"Daisy, happy birthday."


    "Daisy, happy birthday."


    "Daisy, happy birthday."


    ...


    She was slightly stunned for a moment before she turned off the recording.


    The recording was of Edward Stephens now, but the words inside were what Edward Stephens had said to her in the past.


    Daisy was genuinely dazed for a while before she realized that, back then, Edward had said he would help her fix the recording box. Could it be that he really fixed it and recorded a new segment with his own voice?


    She didn¡¯t know what to say for a moment.


    Looking at the bear in her hands, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    He really did...


    He brought her back one just like it.


    Although she originally found this bear somewhat silly and disliked it.


    Outside was a snowy icy world, and inside the room, the air conditioning was on.


    For these past days, perhaps because of her mood, Daisy couldn¡¯t warm up no matter how much she slept. But at that moment, because of this plush little bear, she felt a slight happiness and warmth.


    In this world, perhaps only he could make her feel joyful even under such circumstances.


    She closed her eyes, gently hugging the little toy in her arms, feeling a sense of security and peace.


    Luckily, she still had him.


    She still had Edward.


    *


    When the man came in, there was still a bit of unmelted snow on his down jacket.


    Daisy sat up from the bed and reached out to brush the snow off his hair.


    "Where have you been?" She knelt on the bed, looking at the man¡¯s slightly reddened nose from the cold, and handed him a hot water bottle.


    "Just came back from the police station." Edward nced at the bear she was holding, raising an eyebrow, "Do you like it?"


    Daisy said, "Did you change the recording box inside?"


    Edward raised his eyebrow slightly, with a hint of pride: "You can open it and see if it¡¯s from eight years ago."


    Daisy pouted, "Since you fixed it, why did you erase the old voice?" She couldn¡¯t hear the tender young voice from eight years ago anymore.


    Edward looked at her and said calmly, "It¡¯s all in the past, what¡¯s so good about listening to it? Didn¡¯t I record a new one for you? You can listen to mine from now on."


    Daisy didn¡¯t mind his presumptuous decision too much. For her, the things Edward gave her meant more than the broken ones.


    Given that he had fixed the bear for her, what more could she say?


    "What were you doing at the police station?" Daisy changed the topic as the snowkes in Edward¡¯s hair melted from the room¡¯s warmth, and she kept wiping them with a tissue, "It¡¯s so cold, don¡¯t run around." If he caught a cold, she¡¯d be the one worrying.


    "The surveince footage was repaired." Edward looked at her, "I sent it to them."


    "..." Daisy suddenly looked up.


    Edward¡¯s eyes were a bit dim as he reached out to hold Daisy¡¯s hand, epassing it entirely in his palm: "There¡¯s footage of your mother falling into the water in the garden."


    Daisy stared at him intently, her voice hoarse, "Did she fall in by herself?"


    Edward was silent for a moment, then gently shook his head.


    *


    Finally, I can ask for monthly votes~~ My darlings, please cast your monthly votes for me~

 Chapter 242: 1,000,000 to buy Alice Lesser’s life.

    <h4>Chapter 242: Chapter 242: 1,000,000 to buy Alice Lesser¡¯s life.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger jolted violently, jumped off the bed, and rushed out the door, tightly embraced by Edward Stephens.


    The man held her from behind, his voice steady and cold: "Daisy, calm down! Do you not want your foot?!"


    "How can you ask me to calm down!" Daisy raised her tear-streaked face, looking devastated, and shouted at him, "My mom was harmed! If there¡¯s anything,e at me, why must they hurt her! She¡¯s suffered enough!"


    Blood continuously seeped from Daisy Ginger¡¯s ankle, a wound from the past few days that hadn¡¯tpletely healed, starting to bleed due to her heightened emotions.


    Edward Stephens tightened his grip on her shoulders, staring coldly at her face, said: "If you don¡¯t calm down, I¡¯ll knock you out."


    Daisy met the man¡¯s gaze, his eyes held absolute calm and a merciless determination.


    She bit her lip hard, forcing herself to calm down. She could not pass out now; she had to go to the police station and shred the person who harmed Alice Lesser into pieces!


    Edward looked at her and asked, "Calmed down?"


    Daisy lifted her head, a hint of hatred in her eyes: "It¡¯s not your mom who¡¯s a vegetable! Of course you can be calm!"


    Her lips were bitten until they bled, her eyes brimming with tears. Edward looked at her weary, grief-stricken face, lifted her up horizontally, and ced her on the bed.


    He pressed the bell to call the nurse to treat Daisy¡¯s foot wound.


    "You¡¯re right, it¡¯s not my mother in trouble, so I can¡¯t empathize," Edward rolled up Daisy¡¯s pant leg, viewing the non-coagting blood beads rolling down her ankle, "But now you¡¯re my wife; as your husband, I can¡¯t allow you to run barefoot in the freezing snow." He said coldly, "I don¡¯t need a wife who spends the rest of her life in a wheelchair."


    You¡¯re the one in a wheelchair for the rest of your life.


    Daisy wanted to curse at him, but she couldn¡¯t stabilize her emotions, her whole body trembling uncontrobly.


    With her eyes red, she asked, "Who pushed Alice Lesser down?"


    Edward nced at her, "A slightly plump woman. You hired a caretaker for Alice Lesser, remember?"


    Alice¡¯s caretaker...


    In Daisy¡¯s muddled brain, appeared a face of a middle-aged woman smiling tteringly at her.


    She stiffened, looking at Edward in disbelief.


    Ever since Alice¡¯s ident, she had been pressing the director and nurses for ountability, exerting pressure on the police for a thorough investigation but had forgotten the woman who cared for Alice daily in her hospital room...


    "After the hospital incident, she resigned." Edward looked at those continuously bleeding from Daisy¡¯s ankle, slightly frowned, fearing it wouldn¡¯t heal and might require antibiotics. "Greenhill Hospital has closed down, patients have been transferred, caretakers resigning is normal. When Alice had an ident, she was sleeping in the room with a solid alibi. The police followed the procedure, asked her a few questions, then let her go."


    Daisy looked at him dazedly, unable to understand why a caretaker being paid twenty-five thousand a month, only caring for Alice¡¯s basic needs, would want to harm Alice? What deep grudge could justify hurting Alice?


    Daisy quivered all over; Edward reached out, pulled her close, letting her forehead rest against his shoulder.


    "Why?" Daisy asked, her voice raspy.


    "When I arrived, the police called me, said an overseas virtual ount transferred a million to the caretaker¡¯s bank ount days ago," Edward murmured, "Daisy, pull yourself together, someone has targeted you. They¡¯re using this to hit you, the more you suffer, the happier they are, isn¡¯t it?"


    Money...


    A million bought Alice¡¯s life.


    Alice, once the city¡¯s pride, only worth a million.


    A mere million severed all her possibilities.


    Daisy at moments wanted tough, but more pervasive was an indescribable hatred.


    She wanted to kill.


    Wanted to kill everyone who hurt Alice!


    She worked so hard to maintain the wholepany not just for the opportunity to act cute in front of Alice in the future, to tell her, Mom, I kept yourpany. Isn¡¯t that impressive?


    A million ruined everything.


    "Can I... manage not to feel pain?" Daisy slowly lifted her head, tears in her eyes, devoid of any light, "Edward, do you know how hard, how much effort I¡¯ve put in over these years..."


    All just to make Alice proud and pleased.


    Her daughter excelled, outshone all her friends¡¯ children, much more aplished than Abigail Perry¡¯s daughter.


    She wanted to make her happy!


    She wanted her to live for her sake!


    She wanted Alice to know that Daisy Ginger was worth staying alive...


    *


    The nurse came in, saw the blood on Daisy¡¯s foot, and screamed in fright, even called in the doctor.


    The inmmation started from the bone structure, though the bone had reattached, the flesh hadn¡¯t fully grown back, easily leading to pus and necrosis.


    Daisy had exerted herself excessively these days, exacerbating the not-fully-healed foot injury. Then came Alice¡¯s incident, her physical condition plummeted, wounds repeatedly inmed, unable to heal.


    The doctor checked briefly, dissatisfied, threatened her: "If you don¡¯t properly rest, once this area rots, we¡¯ll have to open the flesh to clean out the infection, and you¡¯ll be the one to suffer then!"


    Edward had endured the pain of debridement; upon hearing this, he took it seriously. But Daisy, fearless like a calf, coldly retorted, "Whatever. I¡¯m not afraid of pain."


    Edward lightly tapped her head, then went over to discuss the treatment n with the doctor, returning to tell her: "The doctor wasn¡¯t bluffing. Your inmmation is severe, you¡¯ll be getting an antibiotic injection, and I¡¯ll take you to the police station afterward."


    Hearing about the antibiotic shot, Daisy realized her foot injury, seemingly minor, was growing more serious. She pursed her lips, softly whispered "Oh."


    As the nurse was dressing her wounds, Edward sat beside the bed, looked at her face, and asked: "Calmed down a bit now?"


    Daisy raised her head, nced at the man¡¯s beautiful eyes. His gaze deep, profoundly observing her, appearing quite stable.


    "You said I¡¯m calm only because it¡¯s not my mother, you¡¯re right. But if I too lose myposure like you, we might not capture them, and our family would be ruined."


    Daisy knew he made sense, bowed her head, softly spoke: "Edward, I didn¡¯t mean to me you."


    "I fixed the surveince, already sent the video to the police. They¡¯ve dispatched someone to find the caretaker now. Your primary concern is figuring out who¡¯s so hateful toward you, to harm you, what benefit do they gain."

 Chapter 243: Hiring a Killer

    <h4>Chapter 243: Chapter 243: Hiring a Killer</h4>


    Regarding people¡¯s hearts, Daisy Ginger realized she was no match for Edward Stephens.


    With just a few words, he made her start considering the benefits those people could gain from hurting Alice Lesser.


    Someone wanted her to copse, lose control, or even hurt the people she cared about most to achieve their goals.


    The whole Banyan City knew too much about her, the abduction case eight years ago not only shocked Banyan City but also pushed the name Daisy Ginger into the public eye.


    Later, Gabriel Ginger divorced Alice Lesser and married Abigail Perry into the Ginger Residence, which the Banyan City entertainment evening news relished for a long time.


    Such family disputes and scandalous tales of mistresses are the most eye-catching and memorable gossip.


    Even someone like Ian Linton could know about her past and those around her, let alone all those businesspetitors...


    Daisy Ginger was exhausted, unable to figure it out.


    Edward Stephens gently touched her head, soothingly said, "It¡¯s okay if you can¡¯t think of it now, wait for the police to investigate. Recovering properly is the greatest counterattack against the viins."


    Daisy Ginger looked at his face, sniffled, and knew that this man had been worrying about her for days; she reached out to hug his neck and buried her face in his embrace.


    It was truly wonderful that he coulde back to her side.


    For the hundredth time, Daisy Ginger mildly sighed in her heart.


    She simply didn¡¯t know if she would be able to live well if she lost him.


    *


    Jodie Holt was arrested by the police at her son¡¯s engagement ceremony in the countryside.


    Half of that million dors bought her son a new car, the other half went to his dowry.


    The engagement banquet was grand, inviting almost everyone from the vige, lively and bustling.


    When the police drove up and handcuffed Jodie Holt while she was happily toasting, her son even chased after them, questioning why they were arresting her.


    Upon hearing that Jodie Holt was charged with attempted murder, her son immediately let go, disregarding his mother¡¯s fate, and hid upstairs, while the eldest daughter ran over crying to see Jodie Holt off.


    Jodie Holt wasn¡¯t someone who could handle a scare well; when taken to the police station, she immediately confessed, pale-faced, that someone had given her a million dors and told her to coax Alice Lesser into the garden while the nurses and doctors were in a meeting and then push Alice Lesser into the pond.


    Here, she still felt aggrieved.


    "It was just five minutes! I never intended to harm anyone; the nurse can testify, I was the one who led them to the pond to find her... At most, she fell in for five minutes, I really didn¡¯t intend to kill her!"


    In her words, it seemed she was just tempted by the million that could marry off her son; she didn¡¯t want to harm Alice Lesser, just wanted to get the million first, never thinking that Alice Lesser would be a nt after just five minutes in the water?


    When Jodie Holt wasn¡¯t caught, she was joyful; after being caught, she began toment incessantly, crying innocence. The policepared her statement with the hospital director¡¯s side, but it was too rushed that day, and the nurses couldn¡¯t recall if it was Jodie Holt who led them to the pond to find Alice Lesser.


    The police took the clues provided by Jodie Holt and traced the overseas virtual ount that wired her the money, issued by a Swiss Bank; the unknown number that called Jodie Holt was a domestic cellphone number.


    Without real-name registration, plus it being disposable, finding the caller won¡¯t happen quickly, but given all the current clues, uncovering the mastermind behind hiring a murderer doesn¡¯t seem particrly distant.


    *


    30,000 words. Dear readers, please vote for the monthly ticket~~~~~


    The eagerly anticipated brother appeared in a photo, wondering if you were satisfied with his handsome visage. Abigail Perry will be cast aside by Brother Robert, and who else is better at ying with hearts than Brother Robert~~ Daisy Ginger and Edward face the demon¡¯s mighty blow, also quite weary... Tiptoed writing until four o¡¯clock in the morning, really tired, going to lie down and rest now. Everyone enthusiastically cast your votes~

 Chapter 244 - 245: You Devil!

    <h4>Chapter 244: Chapter 245: You Devil!</h4>


    The news of Jodie Holt being arrested quickly reached Abigail Perry¡¯s ears.


    These past few days, because she turned the tables on Daisy Ginger several times, her mood was exceptionally good, so much so that even the household servants were bewildered.


    That afternoon, Abigail Perry returned from the beauty salon with a pale face.


    She carried her bag, her face looking so grim that the servants at the Ginger Residence were startled, wondering if she had some sudden illness to look like this.


    Naturally, Abigail didn¡¯t exin to anyone and just hurried upstairs with her bag.


    These days, everyone was used to her running into her room for no apparent reason, so seeing her go upstairs as usual, they didn¡¯t pay much attention and went about their business.


    *


    Hiding in her room, Abigail, trembling, took out her phone to call William.


    The phone rang three times, and Abigail¡¯s heart pounded countless times along with it¡ªshe never thought that the three seconds waiting for a call to be answered could feel so long!


    The other side picked up the phone as usual, and a smooth, maic voice as gentle as a siren¡¯s softly spoke: "Hello?"


    Hearing this voice, Abigail felt a lot more at ease. As long as he was there, nothing would happen; he would show her the way forward...


    "Mr. William," Abigail cautiously said, "didn¡¯t you say that by using a jammer on the camera, we wouldn¡¯t be recorded? Why did the police still find the video?"


    Williamzily responded, "Maybe someone decoded it."


    His tone was calm and still carried a hint of amusement, but it made Abigail feel somewhat ufortable.


    Didn¡¯t he say it wouldn¡¯t be caught on camera? How could it be decoded now?


    For the past few days, she had been dizzy with his words, following him blindly, and only now realized something was amiss.


    "De-decode?!" Abigail couldn¡¯t help but raise her voice tremulously, "Mr. William, how could it be decoded? I¡¯m not ming you, I just feel that it shouldn¡¯t be decoded, I thought¡ªit wouldn¡¯t be caught on camera..."


    The other side fell quiet, just like before, quietly listening to her.


    But the peace and trust from before had now turned into unease and panic because of his silence.


    Abigail couldn¡¯t help but say, "Mr. William, say¡ªsay something..."


    William lightlyughed, "I don¡¯t know what to say."


    Hisugh remained gentle, even his tone unchanged. If it weren¡¯t for his indifferent words, Abigail might not have realized.


    Her face grew anxious, she couldn¡¯t help but say, "But, you¡¯re the one who taught me all of this! How can you not know? Didn¡¯t you tell me everything? Teaching shareholders, using jammers to interfere with cameras, these¡ªweren¡¯t these all your words?!"


    Ayer of cold sweat broke out in her palms. Nearly in despair, Abigail desperately hoped to hear something reassuring from this man, while he merely chuckled, hisughter making her entire body grow colder and colder.


    William¡¯s voice, deep as a cello¡¯s string and incredibly captivating, he softlyughed, "But, I haven¡¯t done anything. Weren¡¯t all these things done by you?"


    "Thud!"


    It was like a heavy hammer harshly smashed onto Abigail, her face turned deathly pale, stunned on the spot, almost unable to believe what she just heard!

 Chapter 245 - 246 Abigail Perry’s Suicide

    <h4>Chapter 245: Chapter 246 Abigail Perry¡¯s Suicide</h4>


    Even if Abigail Perry blindly followed before, she now realized something was terribly wrong.


    Holding her phone, her entire body started to shake violently again, crouching in fear, clutching her head tightly.


    "You..." Her throat muscles trembled, and even her words of usation were barely coherent, "Why did you do this..."


    She had been yed...


    Only now did Abigail Perry¡¯s rational mind tell her that she had been fooled.


    What had she been doing these days?


    She held her head, despairing, thinking, What have I done?


    I¡¯vemitted a crime...


    I¡¯m going to die...


    "Are you ming me?" the man said softly, his tone as gentle as a sigh, "...But these days, haven¡¯t you been happy?"


    "Stop joking around!" Abigail screamed sharply, "It was you! You deceived me! Who are you! How can you do this to me!"


    "..." Silence prevailed for a while, and then the man¡¯s voice rang out again, but the tenderness in his tone had vanished, reced by a certain indifferent aloofness, "Just a game. Who knew you would take it so seriously?"


    A g-game?


    The skin all over Abigail Perry¡¯s body tightened intensely as if pricked by a needle; she couldn¡¯t believe what she just heard.


    How could it possibly be just a game?


    Alice Lesser had be a vegetable, Daisy Ginger¡¯spany was on the brink of copse, and if she got caught, she¡¯d go to prison!


    How could this be a game?


    The lives of others, the survival of apany, even fate¡ªare they merely a source of entertainment in his hands?


    "...You demon." These words were squeezed out almost through gritted teeth, Abigail cursed in agitation, "You demon! May you not die a good death, may you go to hell!!"


    The man listened idly to the tedious curses, hung up the phone, and with a graceful lift of his hand, cklisted Abigail Perry¡¯s phone number.


    He leaned back on the recliner, leisurely took a sip of coffee, andzily basked in the sun.


    He controlled all the plots happening miles away with just a phone.


    His greatest skill was toying with people¡¯s minds.


    My dear Edward Stephens, consider this small gift as a punishment for your defiance against me. After all, who told you not to listen to your brother?


    The man lowered his thick eyshes, his eyes shimmering, gazing at the photo he copied from Ryan Smith¡¯s phone a few days ago, and he nearly sighed softly with tenderness.


    My dear Edward, you should return to your brother¡¯s side, haven¡¯t we already agreed on that long ago?


    *


    Daisy Ginger received the news of Abigail Perry¡¯s suicide attempt, just as she returned from visiting Jodie Holt at the police station.


    In the snowy weather, the car drove slowly, and when she received the call from home, she was stunned for a while before she told Edward Stephens what had happened.


    Edward furrowed his brows slightly, didn¡¯t speak, just turned the car around.


    Daisy sat in the passenger seat, her pale face reflected in the snowy light, looking particrly translucent and pale.


    Abigail was taken to the nearby hospital for emergency rescue, and when Daisy arrived there, the entrance to the emergency room was deserted, with no one there waiting for her.


    Looking at the door of the emergency room, Daisy turned to Edward and said, "Has she finally gone mad?"


    Edward¡¯s voice was very calm, "Maybe she¡¯s feeling guilty as a thief."


    Daisy fell silent.


    In this world, who would be happiest to see her copse, suffer, lose Alice Lesser, and lose herpany inheritance rights?

 Chapter 246 - 244: But I didn’t do anything

    <h4>Chapter 246: Chapter 244: But I didn¡¯t do anything</h4>


    Daisy Ginger never considered the possibility of Abigail Perry being involved, but she always felt it was unlikely.


    They were in the same boat. If Emily lost her inheritance, thepany would be carved up by other shareholders. Abigail and her daughter didn¡¯t know how to manage things and would eventually be ousted by the boardroom veterans.


    Over the years, Abigail behaved cautiously, not daring to make any underhanded moves against her, because she understood this fact.


    It didn¡¯t seem likely.


    Really, it just didn¡¯t seem likely.


    Unless she had lost her mind, there was no reason for her to do such things.


    *


    Daisy felt a vague, all-epassing exhaustion.


    Everything felt like a strange, illogical prank, inexplicably pushing her life to the brink of copse.


    She hadn¡¯t even grasped what was going on.


    ...


    Emily had gone mad, and no one would visit Abigail at the hospital. Daisy sat in the corridor outside the operating room, staring nkly at the void with her head lowered.


    "Will she die?" Daisy asked softly.


    Edward replied, "Do you want her to die?"


    "If she harmed my mom," Daisy said, "she needs to pay the price."


    Her disgust for Abigail was overshadowed by her greater hatred for Gabriel Ginger.


    She never intended to do anything to Abigail and her daughter. It was a man¡¯s infidelity that drove Alice crazy, and without Abigail, there would have been another woman.


    "I don¡¯t quite understand..." Daisy curled up her legs, buried her face in her knees, and said with a tired and frail voice, "What is all of this..."


    Edward lowered his eyes, rubbing his phone, as an uncontroble thought of why Ryan Smith couldn¡¯t get through to him crossed his mind.


    His deep eyes momentarily darkened.


    *


    Abigail¡¯s surgerysted until the evening.


    Then the doctor came out, apologetically informing her that due to severe neck spinal injury, Abigail didn¡¯t die, but she waspletely paralyzed.


    From the neck down, she couldn¡¯t move.


    Due to aminuted fracture in her right leg that couldn¡¯t be repaired, they had to amputate it to prevent infection.


    ...


    Daisy drew a sharp breath; she hadn¡¯t expected it toe to this.


    The woman who was wheeled out of the operating room no longer had any of her former vitality. Her eyes were half-open, devoid of any light, as blood trickled down the tubes in her mouth, leaving her looking like nothing more than a lifeless heap.


    Daisy took one look and felt sickened. She turned away, her face pale.


    Perhaps being in this state was even worse for Abigail than if she had died instantly from her fall.


    She thought of Emily Ginger.


    Daisy whispered, "Wasn¡¯t she supposed to love her daughter the most?"


    Had she just abandoned the daughter she loved the most like that?


    Edward nced down at her, "Didn¡¯t she love herself the most?"


    "..." Daisy paused slightly, then looked up at Edward, her lips pulling into a weak smile.


    He wasn¡¯t wrong. Abigail loved no one. From beginning to end, she was a shrewd, selfish individual. Neither her insistence on Emily¡¯s engagement to Ian Linton, nor her decision tomit suicide when Emily went crazy, had considered anyone else.


    If only she had thought a little for Emily, the girl wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this.


    Nor would she have chosen to end her life when Emily needed her the most.


    Even though she never thought much of Emily, at this moment, Daisy couldn¡¯t help but feel a slight pity for the girl.

 Chapter 247 Robert Stephens

    <h4>Chapter 247: Chapter 247 Robert Stephens</h4>


    Having a mother like this might just be the most tragic thing for Emily Ginger.


    *


    Daisy Ginger returned to the ward and fell into a deep sleep.


    She was too tired; as soon as shey back on the bed, she lost consciousness.


    Rarely, she had a dream.


    A long time ago, a dream about having a birthday at home.


    In the dream, there was Alice Lesser, her, and Edward Stephens.


    Alice in the dream had white hair, wore a white dress, and her face still looked young, without any signs of aging. She smiled while sitting at the table, gazing at her gently.


    The boy she often dreamt about in the past was now a tall young man, with a reserved and indifferent demeanor, having a pair of eyes much deeper than the average person.


    She walked over and sat next to Edward Stephens, lighting the birthday candles in front of her.


    The flickering me gave her a sense of peace, and when the candle was blown out, she fell into a deep slumber.


    ...


    This sleepsted until the next morning.


    She didn¡¯t quite remember what happened in the dream, but her body was still suffused with the ease and joy of having had a pleasant dream.


    Edward Stephens came in with a thermos, saw Daisy Ginger hugging a teddy bear with a silly smile, and raised an eyebrow slightly, "Hit the jackpot?"


    "I had a dream." Daisy gingerly remarked, smiling, "A good dream."


    "Oh?" Edward Stephens asked with interest, "What was it about?"


    "I don¡¯t remember."


    "..." The man paused, nced at her, with a look that suggested he was seeing a fool.


    Daisy Ginger was in a good mood and didn¡¯t mind him. She saw Edward Stephens open the thermos and a rich aroma wafted out; she sniffed and leaned over, "What¡¯s this?"


    "Chicken porridge my mom sent over." Edward Stephens saw her eager to try, pressing down her hand, andmanded, "Go wash your face and brush your teeth, eat after getting cleaned up."


    "...You take care of me better than my mom." Daisy Ginger pursed her lips, nced at him, stuck out her tongue, and rushed into the bathroom before he could get angry.


    After brushing her teeth, Daisy Ginger and Edward Stephens shared a pot of porridge by the floor-to-ceiling window.


    The snow had stopped, and looking out from the floor-to-ceiling window, the entire view was covered in silver. A few sparrows hopping around on the snow-covered chimney, as if chilled by the snow, kept jumping, chirping.


    Daisy Ginger ate for a while but got distracted by the sparrows, watching them with interest.


    Edward Stephens, seeing her act like a child, tapped her bowl lightly with chopsticks, chiding in a low voice, "Eat quickly."


    Even though the room was warm with heating, it was still winter, and the temperature dispersed quickly.


    Daisy Ginger refocused, ate for a while, then couldn¡¯t help but nce at the sparrows again.


    She found them round and cute, couldn¡¯t help but say to Edward Stephens, "What do you think about me keeping some birds at home?"


    Edward Stephens responded slowly, "Who will keep them?"


    "..." Daisy Ginger nced at him.


    She had to work, so of course it would be the unemployed who would keep them...


    Edward Stephens took a sip of the porridge, "I also raised a bird when I was young, do you want to meet it tonight?"


    Daisy Ginger: "........."


    She looked incredulously at him, at Edward Stephens who calmly finished speaking, then looked at her seriously.


    She really wanted to know where he learned this skill of spouting nonsense with a straight face! Doesn¡¯t he ever blush about it!


    Daisy Ginger¡¯s fair face began to turn red bit by bit, until even her earlobes were rosy. Now, she didn¡¯t dare to look around, nor at the sparrows, and kept her head down, quietly drinking the porridge.


    Edward Stephens nced at Daisy Ginger obediently drinking porridge, scoffing internally.


    Tsk, what a farce!


    *


    After the porridge, it was time for injections and medicine.


    Daisy Ginger was still shaken by Edward Stephens¡¯s teasing words, feeling dazed, daring not to meet his eyes.


    All former boldness when she used to rmend sharing his bed waspletely gone.


    Edward Stephens ceased teasing her, called Lady Stephens who was worried at home about Daisy Ginger, assured her of safety, and coaxed Daisy Ginger to sleep.


    Once everything was settled, he picked up his phone, opened the door, and quietly walked out.


    He walked to the venttor, flipped open his phone¡¯s contact list, and stared at Ryan Smith¡¯s number before dialing him.


    Biting a cigarette, he thought, if he couldn¡¯t get through this time, he¡¯d head to Switzend...


    Just as he thought this, Ryan¡¯s phone suddenly connected, and a flustered voice came through, "Ed, Edward?"


    Hearing Ryan¡¯s voice, Edward Stephens¡¯s heart rxed slightly, then he furrowed his eyebrows and asked in a deep voice, "Where have you been these days?"


    "I¡¯ve been traveling the world with a beauty." Ryan exined, "Went to Mauritius the other day, there¡¯s hardly any signal there."


    To Mauritius... traveling?


    Is his brain broken?


    Edward Stephens maintained his voice steady and spoke in a low voice, "Stay out there and y these months, don¡¯te back."


    Ryan paused, "Huh? Why?"


    "It¡¯s nothing." Edward Stephens didn¡¯t exin much, "Just avoid running into a psychopath."


    Ryan: "......"


    "Alright, as long as you¡¯re okay, I feel relieved." Edward Stephens spoke softly, "If anything happens, call me."


    Ryan stayed silent for a while, before calling his name, "Edward."


    Edward Stephens responded, "Hmm?"


    "I... I¡¯m fine." Ryan said, "Haven¡¯t seen you in a long time, kind of miss you, just wanted to call your name."


    Edward Stephens: "..."


    He retorted mercilessly, "You creep."


    Ryanughed cheekily a few times, Edward Stephens breathed a sigh of relief, exchanged a few more words with him, then hung up the phone.


    As soon as the call ended, Ryan¡¯s phone was taken from his hand.


    Bruised and bound to a column, one of his legs already broken, hanging limp; the gun pressed against his forehead slowly moved away.


    A woman with short hair lowered her head to hand the phone to a man on a lounge chair, then walked behind him.


    Ryan looked at the well-dressed man, gritted his teeth, and hissed, "Robert Stephens will get what¡¯sing to him!"


    On the man¡¯s face, dazzling and aristocratic like the work of God, a faint, nonchnt smile lingered as he toyed with Ryan¡¯s phone, supporting his face. Hearing Ryan¡¯s words, he chuckled softly, his voice tender as though it were a whisper to a lover, "Heh... What did I do that warrants karma? The one who chose to deceive Edward was you, the one who chose to betray Edward was you, I haven¡¯t done anything at all."


    Ryan spat, having been beaten until he was like a piece of rag, and he dared say he hasn¡¯t done anything?


    This guy is extremely pretentious.


    Ryan sneered through gritted teeth, "Of course, you wouldn¡¯t face karma, didn¡¯t you get all of your due eight years ago?"


    Robert Stephens¡¯s eyes gleamed, speaking slowly, "Charlotte, cripple another leg. I think that¡¯s the only way to get this noisy monkey to quiet down."

 Chapter 248 Manipulating People’s Hearts

    <h4>Chapter 248: Chapter 248 Manipting People¡¯s Hearts</h4>


    Robert Stephens¡¯s gaze shifted slightly, and he spoke softly, "Charlotte, break his other leg. I see no other way¡ªthis loudmouthed monkey will only quiet down this way."


    The short-haired woman standing behind him lowered her head. Hearing themand, she pursed her lips slightly. She nced at the pitiful-looking Ryan Smith and couldn¡¯t help pleading for him, "...Young Master Ryan¡¯s other leg hasn¡¯t been treated yet. If it gets injured again..."


    Robert Stephens¡¯s gentle smile instantly turned cold. Expressionless, he grabbed the gun beside him and fired two shots at Ryan Smith, directly piercing through his other unharmed leg.


    Madman!!


    Charlotte Smith¡¯s face turned pale in an instant. She lowered her head, clenched her hands tightly, and bit her lip hard, not daring to say another word.


    *


    Daisy Ginger received a call from Abigail Perry¡¯s attending doctor, informing her that Abigail had woken up and asking if she wanted toe and see her.


    Daisy declined, saying she woulde in a few days, then got up to go to the ward to see Alice Lesser.


    It had been more than half a month since Alice had be a vegetative state. She had been transferred from the intensive care unit to a regr ward, and she had regained spontaneous breathing, no longer needing an oxygen tube.


    Daisy wasn¡¯t sure if this could be considered an improvement.


    It was just a transfer from a psychiatric hospital to a regr ward.


    Perhaps her soul had already disappearedpletely eight years ago when she divorced Gabriel Ginger.


    What remained over these years was just an empty shell.


    But even so, the fact that Alice could still breathe, her chest could still rise and fall, and Daisy could stille to see her was more reassuring than never seeing her again, losing her entirely.


    Maybe, for Alice, living like this was worse than dying entirely, but as she had no awareness now, Daisy had to make decisions for her.


    Perhaps Daisy was a very selfish person too.


    To find peace of mind for herself, she had done things that made Alice unhappy.


    ...


    Daisy entered the ward and looked at Alice lying in bed for a while. Her peaceful sleeping appearance was not much different from her dazed state at Greenhill Hospital.


    Daisy sat by the bedside and sighed softly.


    "... No matter what, I¡¯ll take care of yourpany for you." Looking out the window, she said softly, "It¡¯s okay if you sleep forever; after all, I¡¯ve already gotten used to it."


    "I¡¯m doing well with Edward now, and maybe in the future, there¡¯ll be kids. If you can hear this, I want to tell you there¡¯s no need to worry about me."


    "You just do what you want. I¡¯ve grown up. I shouldn¡¯t continue to act spoiled with you. Adults should be responsible for every choice they make."


    "Since you¡¯ve chosen Dad, I support you." She lowered her head and gently kissed Alice¡¯s cold forehead. "I used to me you for leaving me, but now, thinking about it, you had no choice."


    "You simply loved Dad more than me." Daisy lifted her head. "Now I love him more than you. So, I don¡¯t me you anymore."


    ...


    The situation with Abigail Perry made Daisy vividly realize that not every mother in the world loves their child more than themselves.


    Alice¡¯s choice was not wrong. She was just another woman who had been let down. If even Daisy med her for not being strong enough, Daisy would be no different from Gabriel Ginger, who abandoned her.


    Daisy sighed, opened the window, and aired the room until Edward Stephens called, asking where she was. She then closed the window and hurried back to the ward.


    As soon as Daisy returned to the ward, Edward Stephens said to her, "The person who contacted Jodie Holt by phone has been found."


    Daisy was slightly taken aback, looking up at him.


    She didn¡¯t ask any questions. Perhaps, when Abigail Perry chose to jump off the building, the person investigating the case already knew who it was.


    Edward Stephens sighed, raised his hand, and ruffled Daisy¡¯s hair. "After all, she¡¯s your stepmother; you still have to go to the police station to give a statement."


    Upon hearing him say this, Daisy smiled bitterly. She lowered her head and couldn¡¯t help but say, "Edward, to be honest... I don¡¯t quite understand..."


    In the war between Abigail Perry and Alice Lesser, it was clearly Abigail who had won resoundingly. Why would she go to such lengths against Alice? What benefit would it bring her?


    "What if her jealousy is directed at you?"


    "..."


    Edward Stephens¡¯s deep gaze fixed on her, "To her, though she drove Alice away, the Ginger Residence still had you. Her daughter went mad, so she has always been a failure in front of Alice, hasn¡¯t she?"


    "She¡¯s a person with a very strong vanity. Every choice she makes is to live better for herself. In the future, she might resent you, but right now, that resentment has been triggered entirely by Emily Ginger¡¯s illness. She hopes you will be in pain just like her." Saying this, Edward Stephens¡¯s gaze grew colder, even his tone lost all emotion. Deep in his eyes ran dark currents as he coldly stated, "Only when she sees you in sorrow because of her can she feel a twisted pleasure from your pain."


    The human heart is indeed such aplex thing.


    Just like Ian Linton¡¯s twisted love for Daisy Ginger.


    And Abigail Perry¡¯s twisted jealousy towards Daisy.


    If one could master the human heart, quite a lot of things in this world might be fully controble in one¡¯s grasp. Without deploying a single soldier, one could take someone¡¯s life a thousand miles away; it wouldn¡¯t be difficult at all.


    As Edward Stephens mused, he inadvertently thought of that man.


    He had met many intelligent people, but he had never encountered someone who could discern the human heart at a nce, who could manipte people from subtle points, ying with and utterly breaking them. It was as if he was born knowing far better than mere mortals how to y with and ruin people, like in a game.


    He detested his tactics. However, having followed him since childhood, influenced by what he saw and heard, it was inevitable that he was still affected.


    A trace of distaste appeared on Edward Stephens¡¯s aloof face. Noticing it, Daisy asked, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    "Just thought of a deranged person." The man furrowed his brow, took her hand, and led her out, "Let¡¯s go to the police station to record a statement first."


    Daisy nced at the man¡¯s cold expression, then took off her scarf and wrapped part of it around Edward Stephens¡¯s neck, the other part around her own.


    Having done all this, she hugged the man¡¯s arm with satisfaction and lifted her chin, "Let¡¯s go!"


    Edward Stephens detected the faint fragrance of roses from Daisy¡¯s body on the scarf. He lowered his eyes and nced at Daisy silently smiling, then led her out.


    Perhaps he once regretted it, but now it seemed thating from the United States to Banyan City was one of the wisest decisions he ever made.

 Chapter 249: You are the stupid one. Your whole family is stupid.

    <h4>Chapter 249: Chapter 249: You are the stupid one. Your whole family is stupid.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger saw a haggard Jodie Holt at the police station and also viewed the surveince footage the police had painstakingly gathered over half a month from the streets.


    In the footage, a woman wearing a baseball cap and a face mask was fully dressed in disguise as she bought the SIM card used to contact Jodie Holt from a newspaper stand.


    The video was blurry, and perhaps only those most familiar with her would be able to discern something from her silhouette.


    Daisy watched the video for a moment, then slightly shook her head at the police, saying she didn¡¯t recognize the person.


    After giving her statement at the police station, Daisy felt relieved, as if the burden of the past few days had dissipated.


    She took the man¡¯s hand, looked up, and smiled softly at him, "Edward, could you apany me for a stroll?"


    The man nced at her smiling lips, his eyes deepening, then casually kissed her before holding her hand and heading for the sidewalk.


    "Just going to let her go like that?"


    "There¡¯s no need." Daisy stepped on the snow, her tone rxed. "She¡¯s like that now; any more punishment would be worse for her than the current one."


    "..."


    "I¡¯ll make sure she keeps living." Daisy smiled, "Living for a long, long time, with the best equipment, the best doctors, letting her stay awake and alive." She looked up at him, "Do you think I¡¯m especially cruel?"


    The man lowered his gaze, his eyes lightly resting on her face, and offhandedly replied, "You¡¯re... especially silly."


    "............" You¡¯re the silly one. Your whole family is silly.


    Daisy shook off his hand and walked forward expressionlessly.


    The man stood there, watching her storm away, couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, and then followed after her, "Hey¡ª"


    "You¡¯re the ¡¯hey¡¯!"


    *


    Alice Lesser¡¯s case was closed with Jodie Holt being convicted of intentional homicide.


    Daisy didn¡¯t pursue it further. For her, it seemed the matter was over, and life needed to go on.


    She returned to the Ginger Residence, nced at Emily Ginger who had locked herself in her room. Without Abigail Perry¡¯s care, the family didn¡¯t pay much attention to her. She was terribly thin, who knows how many days it¡¯s been since she ate properly.


    Daisy had someone prepare food, which she personally brought up. Emily was curled up at the head of the bed in a white nightgown. She nced warily at Daisy. When Daisy handed her the food, Emily immediately pounced on it, devouring it without even using chopsticks.


    After she finished eating, Daisy took her to the bathroom to wash her hands. Seeing her hair greasy, she also washed her hair and then used a hairdryer to dry it.


    Emily hugged her legs, curled up on the bed, unafraid of the hairdryer, allowing Daisy to dry her hair, even closing her eyes infort.


    Servants peered in from outside the door, surprised to see the docile Emily on the bed hugging her legs, all with wide eyes.


    Daisy used her skill from braiding Alice Lesser¡¯s hair to braid Emily¡¯s hair. Once done, she pped her hands and turned to hold the idle servants ountable.


    Just as she turned, her clothes were gently tugged by Emily. Daisy looked down at Emily, a bit impatient, "Let go."


    Emily pursed her lips, seemingly a bit aggrieved, looking pitifully at Daisy for a while. Seeing Daisy unmoved, she slowly retracted her hand.


    It felt like bullying a child.

 Chapter 250: Tsk, aren’t they getting along quite well?

    <h4>Chapter 250: Chapter 250: Tsk, aren¡¯t they getting along quite well?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger gave her a strange look, then opened the door and walked out, coldly scolding the servants, "Is it that when I¡¯m not home, you¡¯re toozy to even cook? I spend so much money a month to hire you, not so you cany around and rest in my house!"


    The servants couldn¡¯t help but voice their grievances.


    A chubby-faced maid said aggrievedly, "Miss, we did cook for Miss Emily. But Miss Emily didn¡¯t want to open the door, and we can¡¯t... force her to open it, can we?"


    Another servant chimed in, "Exactly. Miss, yesterday Mrs. Leighton went to bathe Miss Emily and got scratched hard on the arm by her; there are still five finger marks!"


    "..." Is Emily Ginger really so fierce at home?


    Daisy frowned, ncing at the group ofining servants. They were so ipetent, unable to handle such minor issues, yet they came to whine to her.


    She led Emily Ginger out of the room and ordered the servants to take her for a walk in the garden. The servants, nervously holding Emily¡¯s hand, breathed a sigh of relief when she didn¡¯t resist.


    Emily had always been timid in front of Daisy, and even now, in her confused state, she was no different. Peeking at Daisy with grievance in her eyes, seeing Daisy staring coldly back, she dared not say another word and was led downstairs.


    The second young miss, who hadn¡¯t left her room since returning from the hospital, was finally out in the sun today, to the astonishment of the Ginger Residence¡¯s servants, who couldn¡¯t refrain from gathering at the door to watch.


    Daisy, arms crossed, stood at the doorway watching Emily saunter through the garden under the servant¡¯s guidance. She couldn¡¯t help thinking that Emily didn¡¯t seem as terrible as Abigail Perry had described. Either Abigail exaggerated or Daisy was just naturally good at caregiving.


    Emily wandered in the garden for half an hour beforeing back.


    She sat on the sofa, hugging her knees, seemingly sulking, head down, neither looking at Daisy nor engaging with anyone.


    Daisy stood before her, gazing coldly, with no consideration of aggravating the patient, directly saying, "Your mom is in the hospital now, and will likely spend the rest of her life there. Your guardianship is in my hands now. If you don¡¯t behave, I¡¯ll toss you out to sweep the streets. Understand?"


    Emily, hugging her knees, lifted her head upon hearing this, eyes reddened, looking at her, seeing Daisy¡¯s indifference. Tears streamed down her face.


    She always had a face like a delicate flower. Even though she was now slow-witted, her crying still invoked pity. The servants who had cared for her since childhood rushed over tofort and embrace her, seeing her tears.


    Pushed aside, Daisy: "..."


    Hmph, isn¡¯t this rtionship quite good?


    Daisy couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, cursing Abigail in her mind again. Can¡¯t take care of her daughter properly and pushes the me on her¡ªit¡¯s despicable!


    She withdrew her gaze, feeling a bit bored, and sent a text to Edward Stephens.


    Daisy: "I¡¯m back. What are you up to?"


    Edward replied with a book cover.


    Yet another thing she couldn¡¯t understand.


    Casually chatting with him, she walked to the door, telling the old family butler, "Take good care of her. I¡¯m leaving."


    "Miss," the old butler called after her.


    Daisy turned her head, nced at him, only to find the usually slightly intimidated old man with slightly reddened eyes, saying to her, "Remember toe back and visit."

 Chapter 251: It’s Time to Establish the Husband’s Authority

    <h4>Chapter 251: Chapter 251: It¡¯s Time to Establish the Husband¡¯s Authority</h4>


    Daisy Ginger smiled faintly and walked into the courtyard, lifting her head to gaze at the old vi that still retained its past grandeur.


    She used to think that as long as she held onto this ce, she was holding onto her home.


    But now, she realized that as long as she was with her beloved, anywhere could be her home.


    She didn¡¯t have any attachments to this ce where she had lived for over twenty years. Perhaps, for her, she had wanted to leave here long ago.


    Daisy Ginger shook her head, stepped lightly into the car, and drove towards her home.


    *


    Daisy Ginger drove back home and saw Edward Stephens leaning on the sofa,zily reading a foreign book with a ck cover.


    Seeing him seemingly idle every day, like someone without a job, she couldn¡¯t help but feel the illusion of being Edward¡¯s sugar momma.


    When he saw her return, Edward tossed an orange to her: "Peel it."


    Daisy Ginger nced at the orange, then at the bossy-looking Edward, and threw the orange back to him, "You peel it for me!"


    She¡¯s the one in charge now, and there¡¯s no reason for a sugar momma to peel oranges for a freeloader.


    Edward got hit squarely by the orange, the golden tangerine rolled a few times on his book¡¯s pages, he raised his eyes and nced at her, and actually peeled the orange for her, giving her half.


    Daisy Ginger ate the orange and ruffled Edward¡¯s hair: "Good boy."


    Edward, who was reading: "......"


    He squinted at Daisy Ginger, who was lying on the sofa with her feet propped up on his back, watching TV and eating the orange, feeling it was time to establish some authority as a husband.


    *


    That night.


    Daisy Ginger took a warm bath and came out of the bathroom drying her hair.


    Edward was leaning against the headboard, setting his phone aside, and when he saw her, he slightly lifted his chin towards her, "Come here, I¡¯ll dry your hair."


    "..." Huh? So proactive today?


    Daisy Ginger cheerfully hopped over and handed him the towel.


    She sat cross-legged on the bed, feeling the towel gently wiping her hair, she squintedfortably, even yawning.


    Edward used the absorbent towel to dry her hair strands, then said from behind her, "Do you still want to keep having me?"


    Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t immediately react, her head had been wiped dizzy by him, and she instinctively asked, "What? A parrot?"


    Edward tossed the towel on the floor, bit Daisy Ginger¡¯s slender, fair neck from behind, and dragged her into the nket.


    *


    *


    The next day.


    Morning.


    The winter sun shone clearly over the beige carpet, reflecting grid-like patterns through the transparent ss windows.


    Daisy Ginger hadn¡¯t gotten up yet; she had rarely taken leave, and now, she was sprawled on the bed holding the nket, staring nkly ahead,pletely fatigued.


    Edward, dressed in ck pajamas, came inside carrying a cup of hot milk.


    Compared to Daisy Ginger¡¯s appearance, he seemed to have glowing skin, looking radiant and energetic in the sunlight.


    "Come, have some milk to regain your strength."


    Daisy Ginger slowly turned her eyes, her gaze falling on Edward¡¯s face as she said to him, "Edward, you¡¯re a beast of a man!"


    The man casually took a sip of milk, lowered his eyes at the bedside to look at her, his dark eyes shing momentarily, and asked her in a deep voice, "Do you want me to feed you myself?"


    *


    Forty thousand words. Exhausted. Asking for monthly votes desperately~~

 Chapter 252: Born in the Year of the Dog!

    <h4>Chapter 252: Chapter 252: Born in the Year of the Dog!</h4>


    Daisy Ginger now feels a pang in her back just seeing his gleaming eyes. Before he could make any move, she quickly slipped out from under the nket and downed the ss of milk in one go.


    After finishing it, she burped unceremoniously and looked up to see Edward Stephens watching her with a half-smile, a faint teasing and mocking expression at the corners of his lips.


    Damn attitude!


    Daisy slowly gathered the nket back around her and snuggled back into the down quilt, then gave him a fierce re.


    Having to take leave from Oliver Rubio because of her sore back was utterly mortifying! The main culprit, on the other hand, looked thoroughly satisfied, as if he¡¯d been well pampered, and that sight filled her with frustration.


    Edwardzily stretched out his hand and ruffled Daisy¡¯s fluffy head,menting on what happenedst night, "Useless. I signed you up for a gym membership; you should exercise more often."


    Damn, he¡¯s really a beast! Daisy looked at him incredulously; he actually dared to me her for not having enough staminast night and signed her up for a gym!


    Is there any other man in the world as awful as Edward Stephens?


    Perhaps her shock was tooical, as the man chuckled and withdrew his hand from her head,zily adding, "Of course I¡¯m kidding... How can you be so easy to fool?"


    Daisy didn¡¯t dignify it with a response, just red at him intensely, "Do that again after I call stop, and you¡¯ll be sleeping on the couch for a month."


    She felt she needed to set some ground rules; otherwise, he¡¯d eventually wear her outpletely.


    Is he even human? Waking up in the morning, unable to stand upright, let alone find a single unbruised spot!


    He¡¯s damn well like a dog.


    Edward nodded perfunctorily,zily pulling clothes from the wardrobe, "Get up. It¡¯s time for lunch."


    Daisy gingerly stayed hidden under the nket, her big ck and white eyes ring, "Get out first."


    "..." Edward lifted his gazezily, shot her a nce of mild amusement as if she were making a big fuss over nothing, put the clothes by the bedhead, andzily sauntered out.


    When the door closed, Daisy let out a breath of relief.


    She threw off the nket, looking down at her wrist, which had arge bite mark; she couldn¡¯t help but frown and lift her pajama top¡ªdamn it, there was a bite mark on her stomach too!


    If she didn¡¯t know he was human, she¡¯d really think he was a wild dog turned menacing!


    Daisy pursed her lips, holding onto her almost-broken waist and limped out of bed into the bathroom to brush her teeth and wash her face.


    *


    The household help noticed that today¡¯sdy of the house wore a somber expression, starkly contrasting with the obviously sunny demeanor of the gentleman owner.


    "Miss Ginger, here¡¯s your coffee." The maid cautiously handed Daisy the prepared coffee, and seeing her remain expressionless without acknowledging her, quickly retreated nervously after delivering it.


    Edward brought over a tter of seafood from the kitchen, ced it on the dining table, and noticed Daisy holding her coffee with a gloomy face, unable to resist giving her cheek a pinch.


    "Why the face? You¡¯re scaring everyone," he teased.


    Daisy lifted her gaze, her tone t: "If it scares you to death, all the better."


    "I¡¯ll give you a massage after lunch. Fell asleep too quickly yesterday, washed you but forgot to rx your muscles." Despite his words, there was no trace of apology in his tone.


    Daisy looked at his demeanor, starkly contrasted to her worn-out state, and felt a strong urge to bite him hard.


    But her back hurt too much; even staying seated on the chair drained her energy, so she had to let Edward remain pleased with himself today.


    *

 Chapter 253 Liuwei Dihuang Pills

    <h4>Chapter 253: Chapter 253 Liuwei Dihuang Pills</h4>


    Abigail Perry attempted suicide by jumping off a building but failed. Her shares were taken away by Daisy Ginger under the pretext of being managed by the heir.


    Originally, Emily Ginger could also inherit them, but unfortunately, she now has a confirmed mental illness andcks the capacity for civil management. Abigail Perry¡¯s decades of hard work wentpletely to Daisy Ginger.


    The 65% she held,bined with Daisy Ginger¡¯s original 25%, totaled 90%. Daisy finally achieved absolute control of the Ginger Group, and she moved forward with the n to rename thepany.


    She nned to name thepany after Alice Lesser, as an exnation for Alice, who is now in aa.


    The n was met with strong opposition from the shareholders on Gabriel Ginger¡¯s side; they were all Gabriel Ginger¡¯s rtives, her uncles. Unfortunately, they only held a small number of shares. Without Abigail Perry stirring trouble with them, they couldn¡¯t cause any waves under Daisy¡¯s control.


    Thispany originally belonged to Alice Lesser, left to her by her grandparents. If Gabriel Ginger hadn¡¯t married Alice, those rtives and friends of his would have no right to possess the Ginger shares and dictate terms to her.


    The first thing Daisy did after acquiring the shares was to remove the shareholder who had plotted with Abigail Perry to oust her from the management; she bought out all his shares and kicked him out.


    That shareholder was an original veteran of thepany and Gabriel Ginger¡¯s biological brother. After being expelled by her, he was unwilling to ept it and hired some thugs to cause trouble at herpany entrance every day. Daisy directly called the police, had the thugs arrested, and sent that old shareholder to the police station, where he was detained for three months.


    Seeing Daisy show no leniency toward rtives, those shareholders who were eager for "rebellion" didn¡¯t dare say anything anymore. Without that bunch dragging her down, Daisy¡¯s days became smoother than ever.


    The only unpleasant factor was the variable that was Edward Stephens.


    Near the end of the workday, Oliver Rubio saw Daisy sitting in the office without any intention of leaving and gave her a questioning look¡ªWorking overtime again tonight?


    Daisy took a drag of her cigarette, smiled at Oliver, and said, "You should go home to your wife. I¡¯ll leave a bitter."


    "Director Ginger," Oliver nodded towards downstairs, "Mr. Stephens is waiting for you in his car."


    Daisy nced down and indeed saw Edward Stephens¡¯ Bentley. This guy hasn¡¯t been picking her uptely, but after she worked overtime until nine several nights in a row, he suddenly decided to wait for her like a sitting duck!


    Daisy was reluctant, but she didn¡¯t want to keep Edward waiting too long. After dawdling for about ten minutes, she reluctantly took her bag and went downstairs.


    As soon as Daisy got in the car, before Edward could say anything, she said, "I still have a stack of contracts to review tonight and might have to work until ten thirty. You should go to bed early."


    Edward paused and nced at her with his long, narrow peach blossom eyes, then pulled out a small item wrapped in gift paper from his pocket.


    A gift?


    Daisy looked at him suspiciously. The man casually said, "I thought you might need it."


    Daisy let her guard down, put her bag aside, checked Edward, and then cautiously unwrapped the package.


    A white stic bottle was revealed.


    On the bottle, five big characters read: Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill!!


    To hell with the Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill!!!


    Daisy took a deep breath, held it in, but couldn¡¯t restrain herself. She hurled the stic bottle at Edward¡¯s face with force!


    Damn it, she wanted to move out from this beast! Move out!!!

 Chapter 254: Got married, what’s wrong with looking at you a few times

    <h4>Chapter 254: Chapter 254: Got married, what¡¯s wrong with looking at you a few times</h4>


    Edward Stephens caught the stic bottle, raised his eyebrows, leaned one hand on the steering wheel, and looked at her innocently.


    That expression was so pure, making her raging anger feel like such an overreaction!


    Edward tossed the stic bottle up and down nonchntly, "I specifically went to the pharmacy to buy this for you. I see you¡¯ve been staying upte every daytely, looking quite worn out."


    Daisy Ginger let out a coldugh, believing him would be ridiculous.


    "You can have it yourself."


    Edward paused his actions, casting a nce at her with his charming, seductive eyes.


    Daisy knew he was teasing her, but her heart still raced. She reached out to snatch the stic bottle, "You¡¯re not allowed to have it!"


    The man shrugged, "I knew you liked it."


    "..." She didn¡¯t like it at all.


    Daisy red at him fiercely, stuffing the herbal pills into her bag, and warned, "I really need to review the contract tonight."


    Edward leaned against the steering wheel,zily replied, "Oh."


    "I don¡¯t have time to go to bed early with you. If you¡¯re sleepy, go to sleep by yourself."


    "It¡¯s okay. I haven¡¯t been sleeping alone for a week anyway." He leaned back in his seat, counting with his fingers, "Monday, you said you had to workte, came back at ten-thirty at night, and got up at five-thirty in the morning; Tuesday, you said you had a social event, came back at eleven, got up at five, and then worked overtime to Friday..." Edward nced at her, "You¡¯ve been so busytely, Mrs. Stephens."


    Daisy shuddered at his wistful tone.


    This guy had the nerve toin to her!


    Who was the one who made her take half a month off?


    "I¡¯m hungry." Daisy withdrew her gaze, looked ahead with a straight face, "I want to eat."


    The man chuckled low, not arguing with her any further. While driving, his lips werezily curved, showing a bit of nonchnt grace.


    Daisy watched his face through the rearview mirror.


    Honestly, with the way she¡¯s beening and going all week, they hadn¡¯t even exchanged many words, and she did miss him a little.


    As the sun set, the man¡¯s face remained fair and handsome, his aura leaning towards the cold side, yet his slight smile melted that cold facade, akin to the first thaw of ice and snow, possessing a captivating allure.


    Daisy¡¯s heart skipped a beat, meeting his smiling eyes in the rearview mirror, which narrowed subtly, teasing gleams flickering from their depths.


    She quickly turned her eyes away, nonchntly looking out the window, while his low chuckle resonated in her ears.


    Humph, Daisy¡¯s ears turned a bit red, what¡¯s the big deal, even after being married, is it wrong to nce at you?


    *


    Edward Stephens parked the car at a hotel.


    On the forty-fifth floor of the hotel was a high-end western restaurant with a panoramic view of Banyan City¡¯s nightscape.


    Edward took her hand, spoke a few words to the hostess at the door, and someone immediately came up to lead them to the elevator.


    Daisy remarked, "Eating well tonight, huh?"


    Edward casually said, "I reserved it a week ago, but you¡¯ve been so busytely, it¡¯s pushed to today."


    His words made Daisy feel a twinge of guilt. Alone at home, with seemingly no friends in Banyan City, isn¡¯t it boring?


    She had to work, and they only seemed to meet in the morning and evening, with time together, apart from holidays, really being rare.


    Daisy felt a unique sense of unease, typical of a neglectful partner: "Aren¡¯t you bored at home alone?"


    Edward nced at her, "It¡¯s alright."


    "What about your friends? They haven¡¯t asked you outtely?"


    "Traveling the world with beauties," Edward was used to Ryan Smith indulging in women¡¯spany all day, replyingnguidly, "Out of touch."


    "..." Daisy coughed a few times, stammered, "If you... go to bed earlier at night, I can skip the overtime."


    Edward raised an eyebrow yfully, "Oh?"


    Daisy pouted, "That¡¯s what I mean. Reflect on what you¡¯ve done to me this past month!"


    The man¡¯s voice lowered slightly, "Hmm? I thought this month has been quite fulfilling."


    "..." You¡¯re not even working!


    *


    Daisy followed Edward into the hotel suite.


    Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, thousands of lights began to shine, like stars igniting, twinkling like a gxy.


    Daisy propped her chin, sighed softly, "No matter when I see it, no matter how many times, it¡¯s always breathtaking."


    Edward poured her a ss of water, "If you like it, we can move here."


    Daisy snorted, "Burning up your money?" It¡¯s tens of thousands a night; even though Daisy was wealthy, she didn¡¯t see the necessity.


    The beautiful night view, seeing it a few times a year was enough, always fresh and new, as humans are creatures of novelty.


    Edward sipped his water slowly, "This little bit of money is still manageable."


    To people of their affluent background, spending four or five million a year on hotels was like a drop in the bucket, without any stress.


    Daisy looked at him, reached out, and pinched his face, sighing, "When we got together before, I didn¡¯t know your family was so rich."


    Edward leaned back in his chair,zily looking up, "Now you know, what¡¯s your impression?"


    "What are you proud of? You¡¯re still living off me, aren¡¯t you?" Daisy raised her chin arrogantly, "Everything you eat and wear, I bought!"


    "Alright," Edward nodded, "My dear patron, I¡¯m ready."


    "..."


    Edward looked up at her, "I can¡¯t just eat for free."


    "..."


    "I think," Edward sped his fingers on the table, speaking elegantly, "I should serve you well."


    Daisy avoided Edward¡¯s suggestive gaze, awkwardly changing the topic.


    "I went to the hospital to see Abigail Perry a few days ago."


    *


    Asking for a monthly vote~~

 Chapter 255: Psychiatric Assessment Report

    <h4>Chapter 255: Chapter 255: Psychiatric Assessment Report</h4>


    "I went to the hospital to see Abigail Perry a few days ago."


    Edward Stephens nced at her with a half-smile, seemingly aware that she was changing the subject. He yed along, "Oh?"


    The steak was served, and Daisy Ginger lowered her head, slowly cutting it with a dining knife, "She woke up, but her will to live is very low. The infection in her amputated thigh is quite severe, and they¡¯ve been treating her with antibiotics for days. I told her I would make sure she gets well."


    Edward poured her a ss of red wine, "You didn¡¯t do anything wrong; there¡¯s no need to me yourself." If it were him, and someone dared to harm his mother, he probably wouldn¡¯t give them the chance to liefortably in bed.


    "Her vocal cords are damaged, and she can¡¯t move anything below the neck." Daisy¡¯s expression was calm, "I wish she was even worse off, how could I possibly feel guilty?"


    "..."


    "When she saw me, she was very scared. I mentioned Emily Ginger to her, and she didn¡¯t have much reaction, just stared at me in fear. I think you¡¯re right; the person she loves most is herself." Even at a time like this, she hadn¡¯t thought about her daughter.


    Edward noticed her mood deteriorating as she spoke more and finally said, "You don¡¯t need to visit her in the future. Anyway, someone will take good care of her."


    Daisy sighed softly, eating her steak with her head down, "I just want to sort everything out, so I won¡¯t have to care anymore."


    Whether it was Emily Ginger or Abigail Perry, she wanted to see them onest time, and once she had, she wouldn¡¯t need to see them anymore.


    For her, this matter was already settled, the dust had settled.


    After finishing their candlelit dinner, as they left the restaurant, Daisy saw Chloe Brooke, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time.


    She seemed to be dining with her parents, looking less vibrant and youthful than when she was with Ian Linton, but herplexion seemed decent. Ian Linton¡¯s deception hadn¡¯t left too much of a mark on her.


    Daisy, holding onto Edward¡¯s arm, gave her a nce, wanting to avoid any awkwardness, then averted her gaze, not greeting her.


    As they walked out the door, Chloe¡¯s clear voice called out from behind, "Daisy!"


    Daisy paused slightly, hesitated for a moment, then turned to look at her.


    The girl broke free from her parents¡¯ arms, hurried over to her, and stood in front of her, appearing somewhat nervous, her small face furrowing at the brows.


    Daisy blinked, and said softly to Edward, "Edward, I¡¯ll go talk to her first."


    Edward nodded, motioning with his chin not far ahead, "I¡¯ll wait for you over there."


    Daisy smiled slightly at Chloe, "Let¡¯s go over there."


    Chloe seemed a bit excited, her delicate face showing a faintlyplex expression when she saw Daisy¡¯s smile.


    Daisy averted her gaze and took her to a corner.


    "I¡¯m sorry!"


    Once they reached the corner, Chloe bowed abruptly, apologizing to her.


    Daisy was momentarily stunned, looking at Chloe.


    Chloe raised her head and said to Daisy, "I didn¡¯t expect Ian Linton to have those feelings for you. If I¡¯d known, I wouldn¡¯t have invited you to my wedding! It¡¯s my poor judgment that hurt you, if I¡¯d seen through his real self earlier, none of this would¡¯ve happened!"


    She spoke quickly, then anxiously watched Daisy, waiting for her reaction.


    For a moment, Daisy didn¡¯t know what to say.


    She had seen plenty of people like Abigail Perry and thought Chloe hade to me her too.


    But she didn¡¯t expect Chloe to be the first to feel guilty.


    She had seen too much of the dark side of human nature these days, and Chloe¡¯s words quite moved her.


    "I don¡¯t me you..." Daisy said slowly, "However, since you don¡¯t me me, I on the other hand..."


    "How could I me you!" Chloe interjected, "I, I don¡¯t even have the face to see you! I actually misjudged and thought Ian Linton was my prince charming..." She looked down, somewhat regretful, "When I heard he tortured you, I felt so ashamed, you¡¯re the person I admire most, yet I didn¡¯t protect you properly..."


    Daisy took a deep breath, finally smiling.


    "It¡¯s okay, I really don¡¯t me you, instead... I feel somewhat apologetic to you." Daisy raised her hand, gently patting Chloe¡¯s small head, and said warmly, "You say you couldn¡¯t see through people, but neither could I. Given that, you don¡¯t need to me yourself, he just disguised himself too well."


    Chloe blushed from her touch, looking up at Daisy, rubbing the spot Daisy touched a few times, then shyly said to her, "I¡¯ve been negotiating a disengagement agreement with the Linton family recently, soon I won¡¯t have anything to do with them anymore."


    Daisy looked at her, feeling a bit reassured.


    Fortunately, Chloe was stronger than Emily Ginger.


    Daisy nodded, "As long as the assets are clearly separated."


    A few days ago, Ian Linton¡¯s mental evaluation came out.


    Herwyer called to apologize, saying that after authoritative psychiatric experts examined him, Ian Linton was found to have severe delusional disorder, and he passed a polygraph test, so during the time she was kidnapped, he was having an episode, meaning they couldn¡¯t file awsuit against him.


    After all, criminals with mental illness have no civil capacity, andpensation can only be sought from his family.


    Once Ian Linton was released, the Linton family immediately sent him abroad, currently his whereabouts are unknown.


    Daisy had already mentally prepared for this oue, as it¡¯s not easy to use thew to lock up someone like Ian Linton, a high-intelligence criminal adept at disguise.


    Based on the way he talked to her and his logic, Daisy suspected he had taught himself psychology.


    With his mental state, it¡¯s really easy to pass a polygraph test.


    Daisy didn¡¯t believe he was genuinely insane, but since the hospital had already issued a mental evaluation report, herwyer¡¯s doubts were to no avail.


    Chloe looked at her, still seemingly excited to see her idol.


    She asked quietly, "Director Ginger, can you still give me your autograph?"


    Daisy was slightly startled, then finallyughed, "Sure. But this time, do you still want it with lipstick?"


    Chloe¡¯s face turned red, and she took a pen from her bag, "I brought a pen!" Then she held out her hand, "Can you sign on my palm?"


    Daisy chuckled, signing her name on her palm and drawing a small heart next to it.


    Chloe was so delighted that her cheeks turned red. She gave Daisy a shy nce, said goodbye, and then ran off excitedly.


    Daisy, in a good mood, found Edward waiting for her at the hotel front desk.


    The man stood with his arms crossed, resting his eyes, and opened them as she approached.


    "Let¡¯s go." She walked up, took his arm, and tugged, but he didn¡¯t move, "What¡¯s wrong?"


    Edward ced something into her palm.


    Daisy looked down.


    A shiny gold key card gleamed in her hand.


    Daisy looked up, expressionless.


    Edward: "Let¡¯s go."

 Chapter 256: Daisy Ginger, let’s have a child

    <h4>Chapter 256: Chapter 256: Daisy Ginger, let¡¯s have a child</h4>


    Edward Stephens pulled her again.


    "Come on."


    No way!


    Daisy Ginger struggled, turned around to run, but was pulled into the elevator by the man.


    He leaned against the elevator wall, ying with a golden room card in his hand. The dazzling light and shadows danced on his fair fingertips, like golden butterflies fluttering brilliantly at his fingertips.


    His expression was calm, his dark eyes gazed at her, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. His features were exquisitely handsome, so affectionate it could almost drown a person.


    Daisy Ginger nced at him out of the corner of her eye. When their eyes met, the man gave her a gentle smile.


    "..." Daisy¡¯s heart fluttered slightly, and she awkwardly averted her eyes.


    Pretty boy trick, can¡¯t afford to provoke.


    *


    The evening was dusky.


    Daisy, after taking a bath, was gently carried out of the bathroom by someone.


    Her waist was sore, her legs were weak, she felt drowsy, and had no strength left.


    The man gentlyid her on the bed, dimmed the room lights, gently embraced her, wrapping her in his arms.


    When Daisy felt his body heat, she shivered slightly, frowned, and murmured softly, "Don¡¯t..."


    The man just held her gently, kissed her neck, his voice tender and amused: "Then don¡¯t."


    Daisy reassured herself, closed her eyes, and fell into a deep sleep.


    Edward Stephens sat by the bed, watching Daisy curl up asleep. She must be really exhausted, sleeping deeply and breathing evenly.


    Edward reached for a cigarette from the nightstand, looked down at Daisy¡¯s sleeping face, his eyes growing deep.


    After smoking two cigarettes, Edward finally made up his mind and reached out to nudge Daisy awake.


    Daisy was utterly exhausted and dead tired. Even though she usually didn¡¯t have a problem waking up, she was irritated by Edward this time.


    "What are you doing?" She struggled to open her eyes and waved her arm at Edward as if shooing a fly away, "Leave me alone... I¡¯m so tired..."


    Edward hugged her tighter, "Daisy, let¡¯s have a baby."


    Daisy couldn¡¯t hear clearly, was too sleepy to hear clearly. Edward repeated, "Let¡¯s have a baby, okay?"


    Daisy quickly responded, "Okay, okay."


    "You agree?"


    "I agree, I agree."


    Daisy answered mindlessly, agreeing to everything Edward said, as long as he¡¯d let her sleep. She vaguely felt the man kissed her a few more times; he seemed satisfied, tucked her back into the nket. She sighed in relief, quickly hugged the nket, drowsily thinking, what a troublesome little devil Edward Stephens is! Doesn¡¯t he let people sleep...?


    *


    In the morning, Daisy woke up from the bed and took a bath.


    After the bath, she changed clothes and went with Edward Stephens to the buffet restaurant for breakfast.


    Holding a coffee cup, she ground a cup of coffee and returned to hear Edward talking on the phone with Lady Stephens.


    "Mom, we¡¯re nning to have a baby, have your tailor prepare clothes for the baby¡¯s birth."


    "..." Daisy holding the coffee, her hand shook, almost spilling it on Edward¡¯s head.


    When did they n to have a baby?


    Ignoring Daisy¡¯s fierce gaze, Edward calmly hung up the phone, saying goodbye to Lady Stephens: "Mom, Daisy is back, we¡¯re going to eat now."


    Daisy sat across from him, calmly said, "Edward, we need to talk."


    Edward looked at her, "Hmm?"


    "My career is still on the rise, I haven¡¯t thought about having children yet."


    "You¡¯re the chairman of the board, to what extent can you still rise?"


    "..." Despite that, Daisy¡¯s feelings were a bit mixed. She had thought about having a baby with Edward, but hadn¡¯t thought it would be so soon...


    Isn¡¯t it too fast?

 Chapter 257 Preparation

    <h4>Chapter 257: Chapter 257 Preparation</h4>


    She is twenty-four now, and having the baby would make her twenty-five. There¡¯s an old saying, "establish a family and career," and she¡¯s done that already. She doesn¡¯t really want to add a little burden...


    Edward Stephens tempted her, "I think our baby would be very pretty."


    Daisy Ginger nced at his face.


    Indeed, whether it¡¯s a boy or a girl, whether it looks like the father or the mother, it probably won¡¯t look bad.


    But Daisy still shook her head, "But I¡¯m so busy with work. If we have the baby, who will take care of it?"


    She doesn¡¯t feel secure about hiring a nanny, and raising the baby herself would take up too much time, and then...


    Edward took a sip of his soybean milk, calmly said, "I¡¯ll take care of it."


    Daisy almost spat out her coffee. She nced over at Edward, the man leaning his face against his hand, smiling at her, his features strikingly handsome in the sunlight.


    So good-looking, it feels like any request would be hard to deny.


    Daisy withdrew her gaze, steadying her mind.


    Edward said, "I can teach the baby to read, draw, learn foreignnguages, absolutely no need for you to worry about anything."


    He really knows how to entice her.


    Daisy took a sip of coffee, slowly said, "...Hmm. Maybe we should think things through first..."


    They can certainly afford to raise a child.


    But raising a child well is not an easy task.


    Daisy doesn¡¯t want to just have a baby and then leave it to Edward. Participating in the child¡¯s upbringing is very important.


    However, now all her little issues are resolved, thepany is developing positively, there¡¯s nothing that particrly requires her attention, and Edward proposing this now is really something worth considering.


    Daisy pushed the thought down, looked up at Edward, and said, "Why did you suddenly want a kid? Did staying at home get boring? Looking for something to do?"


    The man, resting his face, gazed out the window,zily nced at her in response, speaking casually, "Just establishing our rtionship."


    Daisy found it funny, "We¡¯re already married, how much more established can it be?"


    The man said softly, "What if, one day, you decide to leave?"


    "Pfft." Daisy really burst outughing, "If I leave, would you take the child on a journey to chase me around the world?"


    Edward took a sip of his soybean milk, leisurely said, "You can run away as a monk, but not leave the temple."


    Daisy nodded, agreeing with his view, "Having a child truly makes separation difficult."


    Edward cast her a sidelong nce, seeing her innocent and pure expression, reached out and gently scratched her chin like petting a cat, "So, give it some thought. I think I¡¯d be a good father."


    "A dad as idle as you is certainly rare," Daisy set down her coffee, nodded solemnly, "I¡¯ll consider your suggestion. But about the baby, let¡¯s just go with the flow and not rush into it."


    Upon hearing this, Edward¡¯s lips curled slightly, he seemed a bit happy.


    Daisy saw him happy, met his gaze, and couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    "Then we¡¯ll quit smoking, and no more drinking," She rarely smoked since establishing the rtionship with Edward, only when the work pressure was high she couldn¡¯t resist taking one out, "Can you resist?"


    Edward said nothing, just held her hand and gently kissed the back of it.


    "Nonsense," he said proudly, "I¡¯m absolutely ready."


    That tone, as if he had sacrificed greatly.


    *


    Been writing ten thousand words a day for a few days... made myself so tired I felt feverish T...T Today eight thousand words, I need to rest a bit, really worn out. Double monthly ticket festival, please give me your monthly tickets y¡¯all!

 Chapter 258 "Edward, who is she?

    <h4>Chapter 258: Chapter 258 "Edward, who is she?</h4>


    Daisy Ginger said nothing, only looked at him with a smile.


    His eyes were gentle and affectionate, reminding Daisy Ginger of a night sky filled with stars, so passionately enveloping her in his gaze.


    Perhaps, she was willing to nurture their baby together with him.


    The boy who once left her has finally returned, providing her with support and warmth, also giving her a sense of belonging and peace.


    *


    Edward Stephens said he could wait, but Daisy Ginger recently discovered that the titles of the books Edward Stephens was reading at home were bing more suspicious.


    "The Encyclopedia of Pregnancy"


    "Easy Conception in 3 Months"


    "Pregnancy: One Day a Page"


    "Pre-Pregnancy Checklist"


    ...


    ...If one didn¡¯t know, they¡¯d think he was the one preparing for pregnancy.


    Seeing him so eager, Daisy Ginger felt quite pressured.


    Unexpectedly, this usually cool and reserved Edward Stephens turned out to be someone who likes children.


    Although Daisy Ginger didn¡¯t show it, she realized she was in trouble when she subconsciously started searching for children¡¯s clothes out of boredom at work.


    ¡ªHow terrifying! She hadn¡¯t even nned to have kids so soon, yet under Edward Stephens¡¯s subtle influence, she had already thought about what future children would wear!


    Given the situation, there seemed to be no other way. Although Daisy Ginger wasn¡¯t as obsessed as Edward Stephens, she still secretly bought a bottle of folic acid online and started taking it.


    Well, it doesn¡¯t seem like a bad idea to have a baby now.


    After all, Edward Stephens was there to take care of her at home.


    She thought to herself, resigned.


    *


    That day after work, Daisy Ginger and Edward Stephens had dinner at a restaurant and didn¡¯t rush home, strolling hand in hand along the street.


    Christmas was only a few days away, and the sycamore trees on both sides of the sidewalk were decorated with little Christmas Santas andnterns. In the evening, when the lights were plugged in, the colorful little lights twinkled, creating a festive atmosphere.


    Daisy Ginger bought a cup of hot milk tea, warming her icy cold hands on the cup. She exhaled some white breath and looked up at the man beside her, "I¡¯ll be on my annual leave soon. Is there anywhere you want to go? Decide, and I¡¯ll ask Oliver Rubio to draft a travel n."


    The man looked ahead with a somewhatzy tone: "Where do you want to go?"


    "Hawaii?" Daisy Ginger suggested, "I have a vacation vi there." But she hadn¡¯t used it in a long time due to work.


    Edward Stephens nodded, "That works too."


    The two walked down the street, casually chatting about the uing vacation preparations, their demeanor and behavior rxed.


    Daisy Ginger nced at a nearby trash can, let go of Edward Stephens¡¯s hand, walked up to it, and tossed her finished milk tea into the trash. Just as she turned around, a tall young woman suddenly emerged from the crowd. She walked over to Edward Stephens and greeted him with a smile, "Edward, is that really you? Long time no see!"


    Daisy Ginger paused in her steps and looked at the beautifully American-dressed woman. Wearing a ck fur coat, she didn¡¯t appear bulky due to her tall stature, exuding a refined air from her hair to her fingernails. She walked over to Edward Stephens, evidently delighted, her brown eyes brimming with joy, "I didn¡¯t expect to see you here, Edward. Are you here on a business trip too?"


    Daisy Ginger walked over, cing her fingers on the man¡¯s arm, then turned her head to look at the Western-looking woman, asking Edward Stephens, "Edward, who is she?"

 Chapter 259: Femme Fatale

    <h4>Chapter 259: Chapter 259: Femme Fatale</h4>


    The woman saw her, and seemed slightly taken aback, her smoky-lined eyes sizing up Daisy Ginger from head to toe.


    Her gaze was not overt, almost imperceptible in causing any offense, yet Daisy still felt belittled by this woman as she stood next to Edward Stephens.


    It seemed she thought Daisy was not worthy of Edward Stephens.


    The woman smiled lightly, the curve of her lips just right, slightly raising her chin towards Edward Stephens, "Edward, is she your girlfriend?"


    This gesture seemed a bit arrogant, but carried out by her, it came across with a touch of appropriate gracefulness and wasn¡¯t off-putting.


    Edward Stephens lifted his eyes,zily nced at the woman, "My wife." Then he turned to Daisy, "College ssmate, Eve."


    Turns out she was a college ssmate.


    Daisy looked a little surprised, lifted her eyes to look at Eve, and saw that the other could not hide her expression either, looking shocked at her.


    ... It seemed more astonishing to her that Edward Stephens married than seeing him in Banyan City.


    But the other woman quickly collected her expression, teasingly asked, "Edward, did you drop out of business school back then just for this youngdy?"


    Though her tone was calm, Daisy still discerned a subtle nuance.


    She wasn¡¯t too pleased, sping Edward Stephens¡¯s arm, looking at Eve with a wry smile, "Why, is it not allowed?"


    Eveughed, "Edward, your wife is truly a beauty. So many girls pursued you back then, and you turned them all down. Turns out this is your type." Her gaze shifted to Daisy and she smiled again, "Although she seems a bit childish. Very young, right?"


    This was implying she had a bad temper and was immature.


    Daisy puffed out her cheeks a little, her temper rising in an instant. Regardless of what kind of ssmate this woman was to Edward Stephens, she was about to retort, when Edward said tly, "Yes, I do like her type, so what?"


    Daisy¡¯s temper was like a balloon, pricked sharply, and instantly deted.


    She looked up at Edward Stephens, the man lowered his head,zily nced at her, as if finding her pouting face amusing, his lips curved slightly, then he pinched her cheek, "Let¡¯s go home."


    Finished speaking, regardless of the other woman¡¯s expression, he gave her a slight nod as a greeting, and led Daisy forward.


    "Edward!" Eve¡¯s voice came from behind, "How can you waste time in a small ce like Banyan City?! Edward, do you know how upset Professor Steve was after you dropped out of Harvard? He just mentioned you to me yesterday! How could you marry this woman and disappoint us so much? Your talent could clearly change the world!"


    By the end, Eve¡¯s voice was tinged with anger and trembling.


    Edward Stephens stopped abruptly in his steps, turned around, and his handsome face grew cold and remote, freezing her in her tracks, she stood still, breathing heavily, unsure and rmed as she looked at him.


    "What do my affairs have to do with you?" he furrowed his brows, seemingly a bit impatient, his icy gaze shifted to her face, "I stay where I want to stay, who are you to criticize me?"


    Eve seemed scared by his cold demeanor, and didn¡¯t dare to speak further, only shifting her gaze to Daisy beside him, seeing her beautiful and tender appearance, she slightly furrowed her brows.


    Femme fatale.


    Tonight, she truly understood the meaning of these words.

 Chapter 260: He Returned to Banyan City to Wait for Death

    <h4>Chapter 260: Chapter 260: He Returned to Banyan City to Wait for Death</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was being stared at with a hint of disdain in her eyes, feeling inexplicably puzzled.


    In what way was she unworthy of Edward Stephens?


    Was it her fault for being attractive?


    As if she had seduced Edward Stephens, causing him to be unable to contribute to the world, how ridiculous.


    Edward Stephens tugged her hand, also seeming toozy to deal with his old ssmate, and softly said to her, "Let¡¯s go. Ignore her."


    After all, there were no personal interests involved, Daisy Ginger nodded, disregarded it, and treated it as a farce, then left while holding onto the man¡¯s arm.


    On the way back, the situation with Eve didn¡¯t seem to affect Edward Stephens at all. When he got home, he went straight to the bathroom to take a shower.


    When he came out, he saw Daisy Ginger opening his small leather suitcase.


    This woman seemed not to have any taboo about his privacy and turned his belongings upside down.


    Seeing her sit cross-legged on the carpet, rummaging through his pile of books and showing a look of headache at those strange titles, Edward Stephens found it amusing and walked over to ask, "What are you looking for? I¡¯ll help you find it."


    "A Harvard graduate?"


    She only knew he was rich, but she didn¡¯t realize he was also a top student.


    Edward replied, "I haven¡¯t graduated yet, I dropped out, didn¡¯t I?"


    Daisy Ginger looked at him, still somewhat aggrieved by that woman¡¯s gaze.


    Edward sat down, took her hand, gently kneaded her fingers in his palm, and smiled, "What are you thinking about? It¡¯s just that my family had money, I found a professor from a prestigious university who rmended me. You know, in those kinds of schools, having money is more valuable than good grades."


    Daisy Ginger pouted, "Don¡¯t lie to me. I¡¯m quite wealthy too; howe Harvard didn¡¯t ept me?"


    Edwardughed, fell onto her, "If you want to pursue a degree, should I rmend you?"


    "Be serious," Daisy Ginger pushed him a few times, looked up at him seriously, "Do you want to go back?"


    She was aware that the reason Edward dropped out was probably due to his hereditary illness.


    Hising to Banyan City wasn¡¯t like what that female ssmate said about dating and getting married, but rather waiting for death.


    Edward raised his head to look at her, narrowed his eyes slightly, "If I go to the United States, you won¡¯t be able to see me every day. Are you willing?"


    "Of course, I¡¯ll miss you terribly," Daisy Ginger sat on the carpet, lowered her eyes without looking at him, "But if you¡¯re staying in Banyan City for my sake, giving up what you love, that would pain me more. Edward, I hope that staying by my side brings you happiness and joy... If this happiness can only be enjoyed by me alone, then I¡¯d rather not have it."


    Edward¡¯s eyes deepened, he gently tightened his grip on Daisy Ginger¡¯s hand, speaking in a low voice, "Daisy Ginger, my love is not as selfless as yours."


    Daisy Ginger raised her head, looking at him somewhat confused.


    "If I have decided on someone, unless I¡¯m dead, I won¡¯t allow her to leave my side for even a step."


    Daisy Ginger slowly blinked, looking at Edward¡¯s pupils, darker than usual, seeming like a small universe within, capable of drawing in one¡¯s soul.


    Edward gently kissed her on the lips, "I won¡¯t leave you, and attending Harvard wasn¡¯t my intention, it was just someone else¡¯s hope..." He paused, a trace of gloom flickered in his eyes, quickly brushed off, he only said, "Don¡¯t think about these trivial matters anymore. I don¡¯t like it."

 Chapter 261: She Is His, the Root of Selfishness.

    <h4>Chapter 261: Chapter 261: She Is His, the Root of Selfishness.</h4>


    Daisy Ginger was quite happy being coaxed by him.


    This guy usually didn¡¯t say sweet words to her, but once he started, he was spot on, with a whole basket of sweet talk.


    She deliberately acted a bit proud, "You clearly liked Emily Ginger too."


    Edward Stephens sighed, looked at her, seemed a bit helpless, and stood up to tidy up the pile of books Daisy had messed up, "She¡¯s different."


    "How is she different?"


    "Back then, I just wanted to find a girl to date before I died," he nced at her, "Who knew you, the one breaking walls, would appear?"


    So is she to me?


    Daisy pouted, "You two even talked about marriage!"


    "It¡¯s normal to give a title if we mutually like each other, isn¡¯t it?"


    Daisy felt a pang of jealousy.


    Mutually like each other, huh? If she hadn¡¯t intervened, who knows what else would have happened.


    Seeing Daisy¡¯s peculiar expression, the man chuckled softly, patted her little butt, "Get up, isn¡¯t it cold sitting on the floor?"


    Daisy was still quite unhappy, regretting a bit that she mentioned Emily, knowing Edward wasn¡¯t at fault. He just lost his past memories, which might never return.


    It¡¯s just that, in a part of his life, he met a girl he quite liked and had a romance with her.


    She was just being jealous herself.


    Daisy stood up, walked over to hug his waist, and looked up at him, "Then what do I mean to you?"


    He mutually liked Emily Ginger, so what was she in his eyes?


    Edward lowered his eyes, looked at her charming little face, stroked her hair, and whispered softly in her ear, "You are my enchanting muse."


    The warm breath brushed against her ear, Daisy was slightly stunned, her legs felt a bit weak.


    She looked up at the man¡¯s yful smile in his eyes, like shimmering waves,pletely enveloping her.


    Daisy¡¯s face turned red all of a sudden.


    Being an enchanting muse seemed a level above mutually liking each other.


    She let go of him, coughed lightly, feeling ted from his coaxing, awkwardly took her pajamas from the closet, and said with her head down, "I¡¯m going to take a shower."


    Edward watched her back, the faint smile on his lips gradually disappeared, leaving only deep eyes.


    What does Daisy mean to him?


    Before meeting her, he never knew he could be so selfish.


    She brought out his true nature, after all, the same blood flowed in his veins as that person¡¯s.


    She was the root of his selfishness.


    *


    When Daisy came out after her shower, she saw Edward was putting his pile of books on the shelf.


    They were all some strange, iprehensible texts, though she remembered he read them with great interest.


    She walked over and curiously asked, "Do you have photos from when you were in college?"


    She was quite interested to see what Edward looked like when he was young.


    Edward nced at her, took out a hardback English book, Daisy nced at it, realizing it was "The Red and the ck," feeling a bit relieved because she had read this book herself.


    A stack of photos was taken out by Edward, Daisy eagerly epted them and flipped through a few.


    Then, she found a graduation photo among them.


    In the photo, Edward was wearing a ck graduation gown, andpared to his colorful-skinned ssmates, he looked handsome and upright, though he looked several years younger than his peers.


    Daisy curiously asked, "When was this photo taken?"


    Edward leaned over, nced at it, and casually said, "Twenty years old."


    Daisy almost spat out blood, "You graduated college at twenty? Then what did you drop out from?"

 Chapter 262: The Top Scholar

    <h4>Chapter 262: Chapter 262: The Top Schr</h4>


    "After taking the MBA and studyingputer management for a year, he fell ill," Edward Stephens said tly, "so he dropped out."


    Edward nced at herplexion, raised his hand to tap her forehead, "I¡¯ve told you, it¡¯s not what I wanted to study; it was all arranged by my family."


    Daisy Ginger looked at him oddly, "Then what do you want to learn?" He¡¯s already mastered so many skills; she suspected he might be proficient in eighteennguages, yet he says, "It¡¯s not what I want to learn."


    Imagine if he really studied what he wanted, how impressive would that be?


    Inparison, it simply crushed her self-esteem.


    Daisy felt she was quite an academic achiever since childhood, the "other people¡¯s child" type, but she couldn¡¯t manage to graduate from Harvard at twenty, earn an MBA, and studyputer management.


    Edward nced at herzily, leaned back on the sofa, and drawled, "I just want to eat and wait to die."


    Daisy looked at him with speechless wonder.


    No wonder that Eve got mad at her; nurturing such a genius to waste, she herself felt a bit wasteful...


    Daisy sympathetically patted his head, "Then I won¡¯t throw high heels at your head anymore." Such a smart brain, it¡¯s a pity to hit it.


    Edward grasped her hand and yed with it,zily squinting at her, Daisy sighed lightly, "Okay, I guess I¡¯ll just have to shoulder the burden of supporting you, thiszybones."


    Edward nodded, "I¡¯m easy to maintain. I don¡¯t eat much, and I can pick you up and drop you off at work. Isn¡¯t that a good deal?"


    Daisy watched him speak nonsense with a straight face, and burst intoughter, her bright eyes shining on her radiant face, lunged into his arms, and kissed him thoroughly.


    She didn¡¯t need him to be exceptionally sessful, but knowing that he was a hundred times more outstanding than she imagined, she still felt proud.


    *


    When it came to business negotiations, Daisy encountered Eve at the negotiation table. At the time, she was dressed in professional attire, surrounded by people, entering the conference hall. Eve, as the head of the American techpany, came to greet her, and when she saw Daisy, her eyes almost popped out.


    Daisy wasn¡¯t the type to mix business and personal matters; she distinguished them well. The final negotiation was very amicable, and when she shook hands with Eve at the end, the stiff smile on Eve¡¯s face gave her a bit of satisfaction.


    Alright, seeing Eve like this, she admitted, she did feel a little triumphant.


    As she was organizing materials to leave with Oliver Rubio, Eve called out to her.


    "Miss Ginger."


    Eve¡¯s voice still carried its innate arrogance. Someone like her, able to enter Harvard, excelled in society. Arrogance and pride were inevitable.


    However,pared to thest meeting, she was much more humble, no longer looking down her nose at Daisy.


    Daisy turned around, smiling, "Hmm?"


    "Last time we met, I failed to recognize your talent; I offended you in many ways," Eve spoke very politely, "I¡¯m sorry, it¡¯s wrong of me to judge by appearances, you are an excellentpany manager."


    Daisy smiled meaningfully, "After all, separating personal and professional matters is the quality of an adult; only a child would act immaturely."


    "..." Eve lowered her head, silent for a moment, indeed, this Director Ginger does hold a grudge!


    "What do you want?" Daisy asked.


    "I wonder if Edward has any ns to return to Harvard?" Eve looked deeply at her, "His talent in programming and artificial intelligence could change the world. Both the professors and I felt it¡¯s truly regrettable that he dropped out..."


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 Chapter 263: The Big Rice Bug Edward Stephens!

    <h4>Chapter 263: Chapter 263: The Big Rice Bug Edward Stephens!</h4>


    Daisy Ginger slowly blinked her eyes.


    What Eve was talking about was a field she didn¡¯t understand, but she saw the regret in Eve¡¯s eyes.


    "Edward is the smartest person I¡¯ve ever met," Eve sighed, still amazed by the Edward Stephens of the past, "We¡¯re a techpany specializing in artificial intelligence. In our research institute, there was no shortage of geniuses, but when he first came, he solved a problem that stumped ourb for a whole decade. Our mentor valued him greatly and intended to groom him as a sessor, but then one day, he suddenly dropped out... When I saw him in Banyan City, aplishing nothing, I was truly disappointed... That¡¯s why I took it out on Miss Ginger, my apologies."


    Daisy didn¡¯t really understand much about artificial intelligence, but she did understand that her husband used to be quite impressive.


    Her tail lifted slightly, feeling secretly pleased, then she modestly replied, "I¡¯ll go back and ask my husband."


    Although she felt that, given Edward Stephens¡¯ current intent to stay home and raise the kids, he probably wasn¡¯t interested in inheriting any mentor¡¯s legacy...


    She really wanted to tell this fellow student who had high hopes for Edward that the genius among geniuses she envisioned, who could change the world, was now just azy bum here with her...


    And living off her, at that.


    Thinking this, Daisy felt a bit guilty.


    She cleared her throat lightly, "I¡¯m leaving now."


    Eve nodded, reminding her once again, "Director Ginger, you must talk to Edward!"


    "Got it, got it," Daisy replied dismissively.


    During dinner, Daisy brought up what Eve had said at the table.


    Edward Stephens listened, chin resting in hand, looking indifferent.


    "After finishing my MBA, I had nothing to do, so I just went in for fun," Edward said ndly, "Lost interest long ago."


    Daisy silently swallowed a mouthful of rice ball.


    Perhaps there are just some people in this world who, no matter what they dabble in, reach heights that ordinary people can¡¯t attain in a lifetime...


    The feeling of having one¡¯s intelligencepletely outssed is really hard to ept!


    She always thought she was about as smart as him...


    Clearly, sometimes he seemed quite foolish?


    Daisy¡¯s feelings were a bitplicated.


    Edward wasn¡¯t sure what he was thinking, eating for a while, then suddenly looked up at her and said, "Don¡¯t get too deep in conversation with them, those people are really boring, nothing interesting."


    Daisy also wasn¡¯t interested in his group of high-minded old ssmates, so she nodded obediently, "Mm."


    Edward nced up at her, seeing her being so obedient, he couldn¡¯t help but smile and reached out to pinch her cheek.


    For him, many things in this world¡ªstatus, wealth, glory, the admiration and envy of others¡ªhe had experienced all of it by the time he was twenty-four.


    nd and tasteless.


    He came to Banyan City, exiled by the entire family; after he was diagnosed with a hereditary disease, all his achievements were rendered meaningless.


    Aside from his mother, in their eyes, he was probably just a dead man.


    Receiving a passionate and pure love like Daisy¡¯s in his life, how could he be willing to return to that grotesque and pathological world?


    He just wanted to deceive her well enough, hopefully for a lifetime.


    *


    Chapter 6~ Please vote~~ Took our house cat for surgery today, only slept for three hours and still have a fever, this National Day holiday is really exhausting. T...T


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