"Both babies are perfectly healthy!"

At the Obstetrics and Gynecology department, Lydia Nelson held her registration slip and let out a deep sigh of relief at the doctor's words.

Despite enduring seven months of hardship, hearing that both babies were healthy made everything seem worthwhile.

Around 7 P.M., she heard the sound of the door unlocking. Quickly, she stood up and called, "Honey!"

Haywood Mueller was back. He didn't look up when he heard her call. After a long day at work, he looked exhausted.

He changed his shoes in silence.

"I went for a check-up today, and the babies are healthy."

Since Haywood had a meeting, Lydia went to the hospital alone.

The hospital wasn't far away, so it wasn't a big deal.

Lydia said cheerfully, "I was thinking about the babies' names. What do you think we should call them?"

This was their third year of marriage, and their parents had long been eager for a grandchild.

In particular, Haywood's mother would call every now and then to ask if they were expecting.

Since her pregnancy, the whole family had been overjoyed. Though the pregnancy was hard, the thought of two cute babies made everything seem worthwhile.

After changing his shoes, Haywood said with a straight face, "Just abort the babies."

"What?" Lydia, still caught up in hopeful anticipation, was stunned by his words.

She couldn't believe what she heard.

He actually wanted to abort the babies?

Lydia married Haywood when she was 21 after two years of dating. Haywood had always been kind to her, and they had never been intimate before marriage.

She was conservative and believed that sex should be saved for marriage.

But after they wed, she found that Haywood was impotent and couldn't have children.

Lydia didn't care much about sex and thought as long as they loved each other, this wouldn't matter. After all, she loved him for who he was.

However, his parents didn't know about his condition and pressured them to have a child.

Seeing their married friends become parents and with his mother's constant nagging, Haywood eventually suggested artificial insemination and convinced Lydia to get pregnant.

Over the past few months, Lydia had suffered a lot from carrying two babies.

But now...

He wanted her to end the pregnancy.

"Why?" she asked.

Haywood said, "I talked to a friend at the hospital today. He believes there's still a chance to treat my condition, and I want to try again. Besides, even if the babies are born, they aren't biologically mine. I don't want them."

Lydia stared at him in disbelief since he talked about ending the pregnancy so casually.

She replied, "It was your idea to begin with. You said even if they aren't your biological children, it wouldn't matter because I carry them to term. And I'm already pregnant for seven months. It won't be long before they're born..."

She had suffered so much, come to accept the babies, and even started looking forward to their arrival.

And now he said he just didn't want them anymore?

Haywood grew impatient and said, "After they're born, we have to raise them. Do you think it's easy raising two kids? If I spend all the money on them, how will we afford to have our own children later?"

"These two are enough! Besides, kids aren't disposable. It was your idea in the first place," Lydia fired back.

"Then are you going to abort them or not?" Haywood stared at her and asked impatiently.

"No," Lydia replied firmly. "I'm not heartless like you. You know how hard it is for me to carry these babies."

She had already grown attached to them and would never give up on them.

She was really happy to see how healthy they looked at the hospital. It was just too cruel that he wanted her to abort them.

Haywood continued, "Fine. If you want to keep them, go ahead. But I'm not going to help. And if you decide to have them, once they're born, you need to raise them on your own, and we're done."

"What did you say?" Lydia asked, shocked that he even mentioned divorce.

She had always believed Haywood truly loved her, so she accepted everything without complaint. She never imagined he'd...

Haywood asked, "I'm serious. They're not even my kids. Why should I raise them?"

With that, he opened the door and shut himself in the bedroom.

Lydia was left alone in the living room. The air from the air conditioner felt colder by the second.

Later that night, her mother-in-law, Cindy Stuart, called, "Lia?"

"Yes, Cindy." Hearing her voice, Lydia suddenly realized she'd been crying all this time. She couldn't remember the last time she cried like this.

She quickly wiped her tears, not wanting Cindy to hear anything unusual in her voice.

On the other end, Cindy asked, "Haywood just told me he wants you to abort the babies. What happened?"

"Ask him instead. I don't know."

"He asked me to talk to you and said if you disagree, he wants a divorce. I thought he was happy about the pregnancy. Did you do something to upset him?"

"I didn't do anything," Lydia replied. "He's the one who changed his mind."

"That's impossible," Cindy said after a pause. "Are the babies really his?"

She couldn't think of any other reason why her son suddenly didn't want those babies.

Hearing those words, Lydia didn't even know where to begin.

The babies really weren't Haywood's.

But it had been his idea to go through with the artificial insemination.

Lydia never thought that after seven months he'd suddenly change his mind.

Before she could respond, Cindy took her silence as guilt and scolded her on the phone, "Unbelievable, Lydia. I never thought you would cheat on your husband. We treated you so well, and this is what you do to us?"

Then she hung up without waiting for a reply.

***

When Lydia woke up, she found herself in a hospital bed.

It was noisy outside the room. Cindy shouted, her tone as harsh as it had been on the phone, "How could she do this? They have to get divorced immediately! What kind of values did you teach her? My son treated her so well, and she still cheated on him. How shameless!"

Lydia opened her eyes and saw her father, Jaxson Nelson, sitting at her bedside. The moment she saw him, she started crying, "Dad."

She didn't even know where to begin. The pain was too much.

Jaxson looked at her with a straight face and asked, "Whose babies are you pregnant with?"

Jaxson's words struck Lydia hard like a bat.

Even her own father thought she had an affair.

She replied, "Haywood is the father."

"Huh," Lydia's stepsister, Mylie Nelson, sneered. "Lydia, how stupid do you think we are? Haywood's parents are eager to have a grandchild. If Haywood is really the father, why would they force you to have an abortion? You did such a humiliating thing. Why won't you admit it? Dad is always praising you. Who would've thought you're such a slut?"

Mylie never liked Lydia. Now that she had a chance to humiliate Lydia, she wouldn't miss it.

Jaxson said, "Abort the babies. Apologize to your mother-in-law. Perhaps, she'll forgive you."

"I did nothing wrong!"

"You're so..." Jaxson looked at her. His eyes were bloodshot. "Why do I have a daughter like you? What did I do?"

He didn't know what to say and left the ward angrily.

After Jaxson and Mylie left, Haywood came in. Standing in the doorway, he looked at Lydia and said, "You should have an abortion."

Lydia looked up at him. Several days ago, she had thought she was so lucky to have a wonderful husband like Haywood.

But now, upon hearing his words, she felt a chill down her spine.

She asked in despair, "You defamed me to make me have an abortion?"

Haywood replied, "I just want you to know I won't keep the babies. No one will accept them as my children."

"You're cruel!" Lydia snapped. "The babies are innocent. How could you do this to them?"

"Why are you pitying them? They're not born yet. Women are so soft!"

"I want a divorce," Lydia declared.

Haywood sneered, "So, you insist on giving birth? No problem. Let's get divorced. But you can't have the house."

"Why not? We bought the house together. I own half of it."

"I bought the house. Why should I let two bastards live in it?"

"Haywood!" The word "bastard" made Lydia wanna puke.

She had never imagined Haywood would act like this.

They had lived together for three years. Lydia felt like she didn't know him at all.

***

Four years later.

In the morning, sitting at the dining table with her phone in her hand, Lydia was reading the messages in the group chat on WhatsApp. Someone said Haywood remarried. "Haywood got married yesterday. His new wife was Natalie Steele. Wow! How I envy him!"

"Wasn't he married before? I'm surprised a rich and beautiful woman is willing to marry a divorcé."

"You know what? His first wife cheated on him. She had a baby with someone else."

The comments brought Lydia back to the past and gave her chills.

Years had passed. The thought of Haywood's hideous face still made her shiver.

Well, life wasn't fair, sometimes. His career had been a success these years, and he even married the president's daughter.

Lydia, on the other hand...

"Of course, my mom is gorgeous. Why else are my brother and I so adorable?"

The voice of the younger twin, Easton, came from the couch and broke Lydia's reverie.

She turned her head to look. Easton was live streaming again on his iPad.

"I'd like you to see my mom, too. But my mom refused. She'll get upset.

"Where do we live? I can't tell you. My mom says there are bad guys. They'll come and take my brother and me away.

"Thank you for your gift, miss. Love you!"

He made a gesture of a heart.

Lydia couldn't help smiling at her clever son.

As a single mom, she had to raise the kids alone. The past few years had been hard for her. But as she watched the twins grow up, she thought everything she had gone through was worth it.

Lydia's friend Jocelyn Fisher opened the door from outside and walked in. She looked at Lydia and said, "You're still home."

Lydia stood up. "I told you I'd wait for you."

"Go. Don't be late," Jocelyn said. "I'll take care of the kids. Hurry. The employer may be upset if you're late. I pulled strings to get you this job."

She pushed Lydia to the door like a nagging parent.

Lydia began changing her shoes in the entryway. Seeing that she was going out, the older twin, Joel, ran to her. "Mommy."

Compared to Easton, Joel was reserved. He sat quietly aside and scarcely spoke during a live stream. But many netizens thought he was cool and liked him.

He wanted to go with Lydia.

Lydia tousled his hair and coaxed him, "Sweetie, stay home with little Jocelyn. I'll be back soon."

"Little Jocelyn? Lydia, you took advantage of me."

"You said 'Aunt Jocelyn' made you sound old." Lydia looked at her and chuckled.

It was Saturday today. Jocelyn didn't have to go to work, so she came to look after the kids.

Lydia considered herself lucky to have a dear friend like Jocelyn. Back then, she was left alone at the hospital.

If it weren't for Jocelyn, she didn't know whether she could've made it.

Despite the bickering, Lydia saw Jocelyn as her best friend.

After coming out of the elevator, Lydia stood downstairs. Scenes from the past few years rushed to her mind. She let out a sigh and hailed a cab to go to the Solomon's place.

She entered the house through Gate 2. A domestic worker called Kenna received her. She looked at Lydia and said, "You must be Joce's friend."

Lydia nodded, "Yes. Nice to meet you, Kenna."

Kenna was Jocelyn's aunt. She had been working for the Solomon family for a long time. Lydia got this job with her help.

Kenna looked at Lydia and began telling her about the Solomon family. "Mr. Solomon had a car accident two years ago. His legs were injured. That's why he needed a meridian therapist. When Joce mentioned you, recommended you to Mr. Russel."

"Thank you, Kenna."

"You're welcome. Let's go upstairs."

The Solomon's house was bigger than Lydia had thought. She followed Kenna upstairs. Russel Solomon's assistant, Alton Middleton, examined her ID before letting her in.

"Mr. Solomon," Alton called, "the meridian therapist is here."

Standing beside Alton, Lydia looked inside. Russel was in a wheelchair by the window. A blanket covered his legs.

She had thought her patient was an old man. It turned out he was young. But his face astonished her.

She thought of her twins.

They looked so much like this man, almost identical.

Seeing Lydia standing absent-mindedly in the doorway, Russel asked, "What's your surname?"

His voice sounded magnetic but commanding.

Thinking it was impolite to stare, Lydia lowered her head. "It's Nelson. Here's my card."

"Dr. Nelson, let's get started," Russel said coolly without looking at her card.

After a glance at him, Lydia put down her things.

Lydia's first job wasn't as a meridian therapist. Upon knowing she was pregnant, she quit to take care of the babies.

She only learned meridian therapy after childbirth. At first, she worked for Milton Novak, the grandfather of a friend of Jocelyn's. Later, Milton found her gifted in meridian therapy and taught her everything he knew.

Milton was an authoritative meridian therapist. People trusted him. However, due to his age, he didn't have the energy to take jobs these years.

This wasn't Lydia's first time performing meridian therapy. Nonetheless, she was unusually nervous. Furthermore, Alton was watching her as if worried she would hurt Russel.

Finally, it was over.

Lydia let out a sigh of relief.

While putting away her tools, she said, "The ideal duration of a session was 30 minutes. I'll come again tonight. When I removed the micro-stimulators, I noticed Mr. Solomon's muscles were tense. I assume it was caused by the car accident. But he'll get better after a week's treatment."

"Get better?" Alton looked at Lydia in disbelief as if he thought she was only shooting her mouth off. "You mean Mr. Solomon can get up again?"

Lydia was confused. "Didn't you send for me to heal him?"

Alton was glad. He looked at Russel and said to Lydia, "If Mr. Solomon's legs recover, we'll be grateful to you."

In fact, he hadn't pinned much hope on Lydia.

This was unexpected good news.

Hopefully, this therapist wasn't boasting for money.

When Lydia came out of the room, Kenna was waiting for her at the door. While they went downstairs, Kenna asked, "Did you have breakfast? Feel free to join us."

"No, thanks," Lydia replied. "Joce is waiting for me at home. I gotta go. I'll come again later."

"The travel must be a nuisance."

"It's OK. Today is Saturday. The traffic is not too bad." Lydia missed the kids too much.

Kenna said, "OK."

This was the first time Lydia had come to the Solomon's house. She wasn't familiar with the environment. The chauffeur was waiting for her at the back door. Kenna saw her out through the front door.

No sooner had Lydia walked into the yard than she saw a couple coming over. It was no other than Haywood and his new wife, Natalie.

Natalie had her arm wrapped in Haywood's. Haywood was carrying her handbag. The newly-weds looked very happy together.

Despite her disappointment in Haywood, this sight was hurtful to Lydia.

It was a shame that she didn't get the house when they got divorced.

Back then, Lydia had just given birth to the twins. The childbirth made her too weak to fight for what she deserved. Haywood kept the materials for the artificial insemination. After he and Lydia fell out, he hid the files. Although Lydia told her family the truth, no one believed her. Instead, they thought she was only covering for her affair.

After the divorce, Haywood slandered her everywhere, telling people they got divorced because Lydia cheated on him. To her dismay, their friends believed him. Many of them blacklisted Lydia.

Haywood got married yesterday. He accompanied Natalie to visit her grandparents today. He didn't expect to run into his ex-wife here.

His face darkened at the sight of Lydia.

"What's she doing here?" he wondered.

"Is she trying to get back at me now that I've married Natalie?"

Natalie's family was rich. Haywood vowed inwardly that if Lydia ruined his marriage, he wouldn't spare her.

Seeing Haywood and Natalie, Kenna greeted warmly, "Miss Natalie, Mr. Mueller."

Natalie responded, "Hello, Kenna."

She had the typical aura of a spoiled rich girl.

Natalie's eyes landed on Lydia. The latter happened to be staring at Haywood. Haywood was charming. With good looks and capability, he was a heartthrob at the company.

Natalie didn't get jealous when she saw Lydia staring at Haywood. Although her husband was a chick magnet, he only had eyes for her.

Besides, Haywood couldn't possibly be attracted to a domestic worker. Natalie was quite confident.

Looking at Lydia, she asked Kenna, "Is she a new domestic worker?"

Kenna replied, "This is Dr. Nelson. She came to interview as Mr. Solomon's meridian therapist."

"I see." Natalie was a layperson in meridian therapy. Russel was in poor health and had many visitors. She didn't know all of them.

"Meridian therapist?" Haywood was taken aback. When did Lydia become a meridian therapist?

Natalie turned to him in confusion. "Honey, what's wrong?"

With darkening eyes, Haywood said to Kenna, "Are you sure she's trustworthy? Not just anyone can treat Russel. If anything goes wrong, the consequences will be too much for her to bear."

He got married the day before, and she came to interview today?

Lydia had been trying to get the house and had made a lot of trouble for him these years. Other people might buy it, but Haywood didn't believe she had come for the interview. He figured Lydia was here to stir things up.

Thinking of this, Haywood couldn't help getting vexed.

Natalie had considered him urbane. He was nice to the domestic workers. She was surprised to sense his hostility toward Lydia. "Honey, she's only trying to get a job. Why are you being hard on her?"

"Natalie, you're too soft-hearted. Nowadays, phonies are everywhere. Does she look like a meridian therapist to you?"

He never knew Lydia knew meridian therapy. Who was she kidding?

Lydia fixed her eyes on Haywood. This man had been making things difficult for her since he showed up, as if she were in his debt.

The past was vivid in her memory. Otherwise, even Lydia might think she owed him.

She laughed. Mockery was plain in her laughter.

Haywood looked at her. "What are you laughing at? What did I say wrong?"

"No. Mr. Mueller. You're right. Natalie, you're too naive. You can't throw a dead cat without hitting a phony nowadays. These people want your money and your love. If I were you, I'd be wary."

Natalie looked simple-minded and inexperienced. She was similar to Lydia in some ways. Back then, Haywood had fooled Lydia with his sweet nothingness.

Haywood glowered at Lydia's words. Was she threatening him?

Good for her!

Natalie didn't get Lydia's point. She said to Haywood, "Let's go in. Grandma is waiting."

She didn't wanna waste her time on a stranger. It was boring.

Haywood followed Natalie inside.

Kenna looked at Lydia and said, "Go home."

"Hmm."

Past 6 p.m., Lydia went to the Solomon's house again after having dinner with Jocelyn and the twins. She figured Haywood and Natalie should be gone by then. However, she saw Haywood as soon as she entered the yard.

The sight of her ignited his anger. He went over, grabbed her arm, and dragged her behind an artificial hill. "Bitch! Have you lost your mind?"

Lydia watched him rush to her. His arm hurt. He was acting like a bandit. She struggled and snapped, "What the hell is wrong with you?"

She was physically at a disadvantage, and she was subject to pain. The spots he grabbed hurt and seemed to split.

This was the first time Haywood had heard her curse. After a pause, he said disdainfully, "Lydia, you've changed. You curse now."

Lydia found it ridiculous.

She retorted, "So what? You drove me to this. Shouldn't you be proud of yourself? Congratulations, Mr. Mueller. You're the son-in-law of the Steele Group's president now. You wouldn't have climbed so high if you hadn't dumped me."

She gave birth to his kids and bore the blame for him. She wasn't even allowed to curse?

Hearing her mention the past, Haywood said, "I asked you to have an abortion, but you wouldn't. It's not my fault that you ended up like this. Don't blame me for everything."

"Is that why you and your family ruined my reputation by telling people I cheated on you?"

Haywood denied, "I never said you cheated on me."

"No, you didn't. But you didn't clarify things, either." Lydia wished to slice him into pieces. Yes, he never said she cheated on him. But he watched his family slander her and did nothing. Now, her reputation was ruined, and everyone despised her.

Haywood warned, "Leave now. If you destroy my marriage, I'll make you pay!"

"What? Are you afraid?" Lydia scoffed. "Then, give me the house. You owe me that much. Besides, you're rich now. But the kids and I need a place to live."

Lydia and the twins lived in a rented apartment now. The rent was high. It would save her a lot of money if she could get the house from Haywood.

This man made her and the kids homeless. Lydia hated his guts for it.

Haywood said, "No way!"

The house wasn't a necessity to him now. But if he gave it to Lydia, it would be equivalent to admitting what he did.

And he wouldn't be able to explain it to Natalie.

Lydia declared, "Then, I'll make your rich wife divorce you! You made my life difficult. Then, I'll make you suffer!"

She pushed him away to enter the house.

She was running late for Russel's treatment.

Haywood thought she was gonna complain about him to the Solomon family.

Natalie's grandparents didn't like him in the first place. He was a divorcé and came from an ordinary family. If Lydia told on him, who knew what would happen to him?

So, he rushed forward to stop her. "You can't go in."

"Get off me!"

However, holding her arm, Haywood dragged her toward the gate. "I knew you came for me. You think you can be a meridian therapist of the Solomon family? What a hoot! You want the house? You can have it. Do you have to pester me like this?"

This woman was something. She even pulled strings to work for the Solomon family. As an unprofessional meridian therapist, she'd be fired in the end, but Haywood couldn't let her meet the Solomon family.

He was gonna give her the house? Lydia couldn't believe her ears.

But that wasn't why she was here.

Haywood dragged Lydia out of the house. She was too weak to fight him. Just then, a cold voice came, "Dr. Nelson."

Lydia stopped struggling, and Haywood let go of her immediately.

This was the Solomon's house. Any intimacy with Lydia could cause him trouble.

Lydia raised her head and saw Alton standing there. He said, "Kenna is occupied elsewhere. Seeing that you were late, she asked me to receive you. What are you doing here?"

Alton still remembered what Lydia said in the morning. He was expecting her to heal Russel.

So, he came here to wait for her.

Haywood recognized Alton as Russel's assistant.

Natalie's dad, Justin Steele, was the adopted son of Russel's parents. He called them dad and mom, but Russel and Justin weren't related. Their parents were close friends.

After Justin's parents died in an accident, Russel's parents took him in and raised him.

Although the Solomon family supported him, he wasn't an heir.

The Solomon family had sons, after all.

Their second son was a soldier. He scarcely came home.

Russel's parents put him in charge of family affairs.

He ran the family business as well.

Two years ago, his legs were broken in a car accident.

Haywood intended to ask Natalie to introduce him to Russel today. Then, he would have one more powerful backer. To his dismay, he only saw Russel from a distance and didn't even have a chance to speak to him.

Upon seeing Alton, Haywood put on a polite smile, totally different from the hideous man dragging Lydia. "Hello, Alton."

Alton glanced at him but said nothing. His boss' treatment was his priority. He said to Lydia, "Come on in."

He left just like that.

Haywood was ignored. Seeing that Alton had found Lydia personally, he was worried and asked Lydia, "What's this about?"

Lydia said coldly, "None of your business."

Haywood had a bad feeling, but there was nothing he could do except threaten, "One wrong word will cost you!"

Lydia straightened her clothes. "Show me your worst."

She wondered what Haywood could do about her.

After that, she walked away with Alton.

Natalie was chatting with Aubrey when Haywood walked in. "You're back," she said warmly. "Where have you been?"

Haywood took a seat beside her. "I went for a walk outside."

Natalie smiled and turned back to Aubrey, asking, "How's Uncle Russel been? I heard he's considering getting a meridian therapist?"

Aubrey replied, "His legs are beyond cure, but the doctors said we might as well try a meridian therapist. At this point, we're willing to try anything."

Aubrey sighed whenever Russel's legs were mentioned.

Natalie squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Don't worry, Grandma. Uncle Russel will get better. Should I go upstairs and say hello to him?"

As the eldest grandchild, Natalie had been doted on by the family since birth, especially by Russel.

But in the past two years, he had become much more reclusive because of his legs. He didn't even show up at Natalie's wedding.

Today, she had brought Haywood specifically to introduce him to Russel.

"Go ahead," Aubrey said.

Natalie stood, and Haywood followed her upstairs to Russel's room.

Inside, Lydia was preparing for Russel's meridian therapy session. She forced herself to stay focused. She couldn't let that scumbag distract her from her work.

Just as she steadied herself, a knock sounded at the door.

Alton opened it. "Ms. Steele."

Natalie and Haywood stood in the doorway.

Natalie stepped inside and immediately noticed Lydia. "Oh, you're here too."

Alton glanced at Lydia and then back at Natalie. "Do you two know each other?"

Natalie said, "I met her downstairs this morning when she came for the interview. So she got hired?"

Alton replied, "Yes. Dr. Nelson will handle Mr. Solomon's meridian therapy from now on."

Natalie asked excitedly, "Can she really cure Uncle Russel? That's wonderful!"

Lydia studied Natalie, a subtle smile playing on her lips. The girl's innocent demeanor somehow evoked maternal feelings as if gazing at her own child.

It pained Lydia to think someone so pure had fallen prey to that worthless Haywood.

Haywood scoffed, "What are you thinking? You actually believe she can cure Uncle Russel?"

His disdain couldn't have been more obvious.

While others might hesitate to say it, Haywood was certain Lydia was just here to bide her time and get back at him. There was no way she could cure Russel.

Natalie huffed, "You're being mean again!"

Haywood turned to Russel. "Hello, Russel."

Russel looked at them both. "What are you doing here?"

He had recently grown fond of solitude and particularly disliked noise, so sometimes he didn't even get downstairs for meals.

Natalie said, "We came to see you, of course! You skipped my wedding, so don't tell me I can't see you now."

Russel glanced at her. "Fine. Once you've seen enough, you can leave."

Natalie took Haywood's hand and introduced him to Russel. "Uncle Russel, this is Haywood Mueller, my husband. He's killing it at his job. Plus he treats me like a queen."

She knew Haywood wanted to make an impression on Russel, so she made sure to reintroduce him properly.

Russel barely glanced at Haywood and showed little interest.

"I know. You've told me many times already," he said flatly.

Ever since Natalie and Haywood had started dating, she had been praising him non-stop. Natalie was naive and tended to see the best in people, but Russel knew better.

He wasn't convinced Haywood was as decent as he pretended to be. Still, if Natalie was happy, he saw no point in saying anything.

Natalie pouted as Haywood spoke up, "Russel, while you're considering meridian therapy, I'd be honored to introduce you to a distinguished specialist I know. Given the delicate nature of meridian therapy, expertise is paramount. An unskilled practitioner could potentially exacerbate the condition rather than improve it."

As he finished speaking, he cast a meaningful glance at Lydia.

Lydia's expression darkened. She hadn't even mentioned their past, and now he was already trying to get her kicked out of the Solomon family.

He seemed really afraid of her.

Years of cheating allegations had ruined her reputation and cost her countless jobs. But he wasn't done yet, now making his move to destroy her last chance, trying to drive her into a corner.

Russel glanced at Lydia and then at Haywood, saying, "No need. I'll go with her."

Haywood replied, "She doesn't seem very reliable. If I'm not mistaken, she probably doesn't even have a license."

Lydia let out a dry laugh.

He was really ... going all out to discredit her.

She took out her license and held it out to Haywood. "Mr. Mueller, would you like to take a look?"

Natalie grabbed it, glancing at it briefly.

Haywood hadn't expected her to actually produce credentials. She'd prepared thoroughly, even obtaining a license.

He took it from Natalie and examined it briefly before scoffing, "I wonder where you got that fake license. It looks pretty convincing."

Lydia's jaw tightened. "The license can easily be verified through official channels. What puzzles me is your persistent opposition to my treating Mr. Solomon. Are you trying to hide something? What exactly are you afraid we'll discover?"

She could be sarcastic too.

At worst, she'd just find another job.

But if the Solomon family discovered her past relationship with Haywood, she could only imagine how they would react.

Haywood looked at her and said, "Spreading rumors comes with consequences. You should be careful with your words."

Natalie watched their tense exchange with confusion. "Honey, what's going on?"

She couldn't understand why Haywood kept antagonizing Lydia like this.

His behavior had seemed off since their morning encounter.

Haywood maintained his composure. "I'm simply concerned about Russel's health."

Russel said, "I know my own body. You two can leave now."

Haywood nodded politely. "Then we'll let you rest."

He shot Lydia one last challenging look before following Natalie out of the room.

After Alton closed the door behind them, Lydia realized she'd been clenching her fists so tightly her nails had left marks on her palms.

"Can we get started now, Dr. Nelson?" Russel prompted, noticing she was lost in thought.

Lydia snapped out of it and looked at him. "Just a moment."

She took out micro-stimulators, disinfected them, and occasionally glanced at Russel.

She wasn't sure if it was because he looked so much like Joel and Easton, or because he hadn't been swayed by Haywood's words, but she found him a bit more likable.

Haywood, now married to Natalie, was technically part of Russel's family.

Lydia had genuinely feared Russel might dismiss her based on their exchange.

Noticing her persistent gaze, Russel finally looked up with mild irritation and glanced at her. "Have you met Haywood before?"

Lydia quickly snapped back to reality. "No, not at all."

Russel studied her flustered expression. "If their presence has affected your focus, you should step outside to compose yourself. I'd rather not have the treatment compromised."

If his legs weren't already useless, he didn't want her to ruin them.

Lydia met his gaze steadily. "You don't need to worry about that. But thank you, Mr. Solomon."

"What for?"

"For not dismissing me based on hearsay."

Russel didn't miss the gratitude in her eyes but coldly looked away. "I simply dislike unnecessary complications. Finding another therapist would be bothersome. As for you, if you prove incompetent, I won't hesitate to replace you. Don't get any ideas and fall for me because of this. My standards are far too high for someone like you."

Lydia's lips twitched at his self-assured words.

She wondered why he thought that she would fall for him.

But his last remark was really hurtful.

To avoid giving him the wrong idea, Lydia clarified, "Mr. Solomon, rest assured, the only reason I'm here is for the money. I'm not after anything else."

"Good," Russel replied.

Given his status and wealth, countless women wanted to marry him.

Lydia found herself momentarily speechless before his aloof demeanor.

Alton returned after seeing the others out. "Shall we begin?"

Lydia had already prepared everything and said, "We can start."

Russel's legs had long been numb.

However, when Lydia applied micro-stimulators to him, he felt a faint, dull ache.

"Can you feel any pain?" Lydia asked.

Russel remained stunned by the sensation but managed a respond. Lydia nodded in satisfaction. "Good. This confirms my diagnosis. The nerves in your legs aren't completely damaged. I'll be coming daily for the next week. I hope you'll cooperate, Mr. Solomon."

For the first time in years, Russel felt something akin to hope as he watched Lydia gather her things.

His mood noticeably lighter, he instructed, "Alton, see Dr. Nelson out."

Alton nodded.

Alton escorted Lydia downstairs and offered her a ride since taxis were scarce in the area.

She gave him her home address.

As they pulled up to her building, Alton said, "We're here, Dr. Nelson."

"Thank you, Mr. Middleton," Lydia said, stepping out of the car.

Just as Alton was about to drive away, he spotted Haywood by the gate.

Why would Haywood come to find Lydia in the middle of the night?

Did they know each other?

Remembering their tense exchange earlier at the Solomon's residence, Alton began connecting the dots. There was clearly a history between them.

Lydia also spotted Haywood.

Her expression darkened, and she said sarcastically, "Well, isn't this Mr. Mueller, who has been avoiding me? Why do you show up here?"

Haywood's face twisted in displeasure. The thought of regularly encountering her at the Solomon's residence filled him with irritation.

"When did you become a meridian therapist?" he demanded. "How come I didn't know about it?"

"Why should I tell you?" Lydia looked at him coldly, thinking of his words at the Solomon's place. "Besides, didn't you say my license was fake and that I'm a fraud?"

Haywood looked at her. The idea that Russel had actually let her stay seemed ridiculous to him.

"A meridian therapist? You?" he scoffed. "The Solomon family could hire any qualified practitioner they want. What makes you think they need you? I bet you're just using your looks to get close to Russel. That cripple can't even stand on his own legs, yet you're throwing yourself at him? How far you've fallen."

An uncomfortable tightness gripped his chest at the thought of her treating another man, possibly seeing him undressed.

Even divorced, some possessive instinct made him bristle at the idea of her touching anyone else.

Lydia let out a sharp laugh. "A cripple? Mr. Solomon may not walk, but at least he's not impotent like you. Who are you to judge anyone, Haywood?"

She had been crazy back then, putting up with such a thing.

When she found out about his impotence, she had only felt pity for him, without thinking of anything else.

But in the end, he ruined everything for her, destroyed her life!

Thinking of this, Lydia didn't hold back when talking to Haywood. Knowing it was something he had always been sensitive about, she deliberately hit his sore spot.

Haywood's face darkened at Lydia's mockery.

Though cured now, the old shame still burned.

What was worse, Lydia was the only living soul who knew the truth.

In her presence, he always felt that old, familiar shame creeping up his neck.

"I'm healed now," he remarked.

"Really?" Her skeptical glance raked over him.

"Stop looking at me like that!" he snapped. "If I couldn't perform back then, it was because you were utterly undesirable. The problem was never me."

Haywood's voice turned venomous. "My life with Natalie is perfect, and you're the only problem here. That crippled Russel must be desperate to settle for someone like you. Let me make this clear—you can work for the Solomon family, but keep your mouth shut. If you mess up my plans, I'll make sure we both suffer."

Lydia chuckled, "Are you afraid they'll discover I'm your ex-wife?"

"No," Haywood spat. "I just refuse to be associated with a woman like you. Understand?"

"A woman like me?" Lydia's eyes turned icy as she stared at him. "Who was it that begged on his knees before my father for my hand? Who wept while proposing to me? I carried your children for seven months, my body changed, and my looks faded. Tell me, Haywood, exactly what kind of woman am I?"

"Haywood, you don't actually believe latching onto Natali and two years of mediocre achievements make you superior now, do you? You're just a loser who uses women for social climbing. If anyone should feel ashamed here, it's me for ever marrying you."

"What did you say?" Haywood's face twisted in rage. He raised his hand and grabbed her by the neck. Clearly, Lydia's words had hit a nerve.

He truly despised her, wishing she would just vanish from the face of the earth. After all, this woman knew all his secrets and every sordid detail of his past.

Lydia didn't struggle as he grabbed her by the neck. "Whether I speak or not, you're still just the same. What? You want to strangle me? Go ahead! Even if I die, I'll haunt you for the rest of my life!"

Her eyes welled up as she looked at him.

No one knew what she had been through these years. If not for her two babies and Jocelyn, she would have already been dead.

Haywood paused when he saw the redness in her eyes. He released her, wiping his hands with a handkerchief as if she were filthy.

His aristocratic demeanor made it clear that he now saw himself as superior to her. "As long as you keep quiet about me in front of the Solomon family, we'll both be fine. If you talk, we'll burn together."

With that, he got back into his car and drove away.

A breeze swept through the summer night, sending a chill down Lydia's spine.

It was summer now, and she felt cold on a hot day.

Ever since delivering the babies, she'd struggled with poor circulation and constant chills.

Rubbing her arms for warmth, she headed into the neighborhood. Checking her phone, she saw a new message from her stepmother, Kianna Brooks. "Lydia, your father is sick. He's at Rosefield Hospital. Come see him."

Lydia hadn't returned home since her divorce from Haywood and the birth of her children. Her father didn't want to see her and had cut off contact.

Still, hearing he was ill worried her.

Her mother had passed away long ago, and her father had raised her alone.

Lydia quickly texted back, asking, "How is he?"

Kianna, Mylie's biological mother, replied, "He's at Rosefield Hospital. Come see him."

Kianna had married Lydia's father later, bringing Mylie with her. Lydia usually called Kianna by her name.

"OK. I'll come tomorrow," Lydia answered.

She had no idea if her father would even welcome her.

He had always believed that her two children were from an affair, not Haywood's. So he had never forgiven her for the disgrace.

When Lydia returned home and opened the door, she found both children waiting for her by the entrance. Joel held her slippers ready while Easton brought her water, their eagerness overflowing.

"You don't need to do all this," Lydia said. "Mommy can do it myself."

"But we want to," Joel insisted. "You work hard. Let me help you."

Easton carefully tested the water temperature before handing it to her. "It's not hot at all."

Lying on the couch playing a game, Jocelyn cast a glance over enviously. "You're so lucky with these boys," she remarked. "They're so capable at such young ages. You'll be living the good life when they grow up."

Looking at her children, Lydia felt her mood lift considerably.

Though she'd endured many hardships, fate now seemed to be repaying her through these two little blessings.

Yet as she looked at their faces, she couldn't help but recall Russel's appearance. The resemblance was unsettling.

***

The next morning, Lydia left home early. Before heading to apply meridian therapy for Russel, she went to the hospital first.

As she approached the hospital room, she heard a stern male voice demanding, "The deadline has passed. Where's Mylie?"

Kianna's trembling voice replied, "Mr. Middleton, I truly don't know where Mylie is. My husband is now hospitalized. Can you give us a few more days?"

Alton looked coldly at the woman. The repeated delays were clearly a tactic to avoid handing over their daughter. "How long do you plan to drag this out? I just want Mylie's address. You've hidden her very well. If you don't hand her over, your family can expect bankruptcy."

Kianna replied, "You just want Mylie back to marry Russel, right? We have another daughter available. She's quite beautiful and well-educated. She'll be here shortly. You can meet her. How about letting her marry into the family instead of Mylie?"

"Russel's legs are broken, and he still wants to marry Mylie? Not a chance!" Kianna thought.

Lydia stood at the door, frowning at Kianna's words.

She had come to see her father, but it sounded like Kianna wanted her to marry in Mylie's place.

She vaguely remembered Mylie's fiancé.

This marriage alliance was originally arranged by their grandfathers when they were kids.

After Lydia got together with Haywood, the engagement was transferred to Mylie. When Lydia divorced Haywood, Mylie had proudly bragged about marrying into a wealthy family.

Soon after, something apparently went wrong with the fiancé's family, and Mylie ran away.

Now Kianna actually wanted Lydia to take her place?

What did they think she was?

No wonder her father was sick and Kianna had called to inform her.

Alton snorted at Kianna's suggestion. "The other daughter has ever been married and divorced. Mr. Solomon won't accept a divorced woman, even with his injured legs. He's not that desperate."

The only reason to find Mylie was that she was too despicable to let go easily...

Alton said, "Since you can't find her back, just prepare for bankruptcy!"

With that, he walked out of the ward, followed by two men in black, making quite an intimidating scene.

Kianna hurried after Alton, trying to stop him. "Mr. Middleton, let's discuss this further."

As they came out, Alton spotted Lydia at the door and was somewhat surprised, "Dr. Nelson."

Kianna's face lit up when she saw Lydia. "Lia, you're here."

Lydia gave Kianna a mocking look. "Since when have you missed me so much, Kianna?"

Kianna's smile froze at Lydia's blunt response.

Alton looked at Lydia in surprise. "You're Mr. Nelson's daughter?"

Lydia didn't deny it. "Yes, the divorced woman you were just mentioned."

Her marital status was nobody else's business. She disliked people gossiping behind her back.

Alton looked awkward. "My apologies, I didn't know it was you."

He had no idea Lydia was Jaxson's daughter.

"No need to apologize. We're barely acquaintances anyway," Lydia replied before walking into the hospital room.

Kianna called after her, "Lydia, mind your manners when speaking to Mr. Middleton!"

But Lydia ignored them and went to see her father.

Standing awkwardly, Kianna tried to smooth things over. "Please don't mind her, Mr. Middleton. She's not usually like this. Lydia has always been exceptional. She's far more accomplished than Mylie ever was."

From her seat in the hospital room, Lydia couldn't help but laugh quietly at Kianna's sudden praise.

Kianna was actually complimenting her to win Alton's approval.

That was something she never expected to hear.

Alton glanced at Kianna and said, "You wish!"

Russel could easily find someone to marry if that was all he wanted.

This wasn't really about marriage at all.

The real issue was Mylie's audacity to run away when Mr. Solomon got injured.

They would never let her get away with that.

Since they couldn't find Mylie, the Nelson family would have to pay the price instead.

In the hospital bed, Jaxson woke up and saw Lydia sitting beside him. His face darkened. "Why are you here?"

"Dad." Lydia looked at Jaxson, noticing how much older he'd grown in just two years. His hair had turned completely gray. Setting aside Kianna's schemes, she asked with genuine concern, "How are you feeling?"

Jaxson remained cold. "Get out."

Alton had already left, and Kianna walked in from outside. She said to Jaxson, "Honey, Lia came all this way to visit you. Don't act this way. How many years must you two keep arguing? It's time to make peace. To be fair, the divorce wasn't entirely Lia's fault. Haywood shares the blame too. If he hadn't treated Lia so poorly, she would never have..."

Lydia nearly couldn't believe her ears hearing Kianna actually trying to mediate between her and her father.

Over the years, Kianna and Mylie had done their best to drive a wedge between them, constantly feeding her father twisted versions of events to turn Jaxson against Lydia.

Lydia chuckled, "Have you changed your tune, Kianna? I almost thought you were a different person."

In the past, Kianna would have snapped back immediately. But now she needed something from Lydia. She was hoping Lydia would marry into the Solomon family in Mylie's place, so she didn't dare offend her.

Kianna put on a pitiful expression and said to Lydia, "Lia, you saw that man who just left. He's from the Solomon family. They're trying to ruin us. They threatened to bankrupt our family."

Lydia replied calmly, "I'm not deaf. They want you to hand over Mylie. If you truly care about the family, you'd get Mylie back. She only became Russel's fiancée because of my father's connections. Now that things have turned sour, you dare betray the agreement? If I were Russel, I wouldn't let this slide either."

When Russel was still healthy, Kianna constantly praised Mylie to Jaxson to secure the engagement.

But after Russel's accident, Mylie ran away because she couldn't accept his disability. That was why the Solomon family was now targeting the Nelsons, pushing them toward bankruptcy.

Why should Lydia clean up their mess?

Kianna's face stiffened before she feigned innocence. "I would turn Mylie in if I could, but she's disappeared. I don't know where she is. Lia, why don't you take her place?

"If you marry Russel, our family will be saved. Your father wouldn't have to lie here worrying. This stress is what made him sick in the first place."

As she spoke, Kianna wiped away some tears, knowing how easily Lydia could be manipulated when it came to Jaxon because Lydia cared so much about him.

Ignoring Kianna, Lydia looked at Jaxson's gray hair and felt a pang in her chest. She said to him, "Dad, I'll take care of this. Don't worry about it."

Jaxson looked at Lydia and asked, "Are you willing to marry Russel if the Solomon family demands it?"

Lydia shrugged. "If it comes to that, I wouldn't refuse. I've met him before. He seems like a decent person."

Though he was a bit narcissistic.

"But his legs are paralyzed. If you marry him, you might have to take care of him for the rest of your life," Jaxson said. Despite his resentment toward Lydia, the thought of his own daughter marrying a disabled man made him hesitate.

If not for what she had done in the past, he wouldn't have cut her off.

Seeing a glimmer of hope, Kianna quickly chimed in, "The Solomon family is so well-off. For a divorced woman like Lydia, marrying into their family would be a blessing."

Lydia had no right to be picky.

Lydia shot her a cold look. "Why don't you marry him instead, Kianna?"

Kianna was furious, wishing to yell at her. "Lydia, what are you saying? Are you suggesting I divorce your father?"

"You said it, not me."

"Jaxson, look at her..." Kianna pointed at Lydia, feeling exasperated. But in front of Jaxson, she didn't want to appear too overbearing. So she played the victim, wiping her eyes and saying, "I must owe it to the family. I work myself to the bone for this family, and she still treats me like the villain."

Lydia ignored her and stood up. "Dad, I'll head out now. I'll come back to see you later."

With that, she left the room.

Outside the hospital, she considered calling a cab, only to find Alton waiting for her.

Since she had an appointment to treat Russel anyway, she decided to ride with him.

In the car, Alton sat in the passenger seat texting on his phone. Lydia observed him for a moment before speaking. "Mr. Middleton."

Alton responded without looking up. "Yes, Dr. Nelson?"

"If Mylie is found, will you spare the Nelson family?" Lydia asked.

She hadn't considered marrying Russel herself. She knew he wouldn't want her anyway.

But finding Mylie seemed like a viable solution.

Alton's expression darkened at the mention of Mylie. "I didn't know you were a part of the Nelson family."

His tone had lost yesterday's politeness.

Lydia noticed his contempt but remained composed. "I've been away for years and wasn't involved with family matters. Still, I apologize for what Mylie did."

"Apologies mean nothing now," Alton snapped. "I've never met such an ungrateful woman! When Mr. Solomon was healthy, she followed him around like a devoted puppy. The moment trouble came, she vanished faster than anyone."

Seeing Lydia's quiet demeanor, Alton realized he was taking out his anger on the wrong person.

He composed himself. "I know this isn't your fault, Dr. Nelson. I'm just furious. Whether to forgive the Nelson family if Mylie comes back is up to Mr. Solomon. You'll have to ask him yourself."

Lydia understood that Russel held the Nelson family's fate in his hands.

"Thank you," she said.

Soon they arrived at the Solomon residence. Lydia followed Alton upstairs to meet Russel.

Russel was sitting at his desk, having a video conference. Upon seeing them enter, he ended the call.

Alton approached. "Mr. Solomon."

"How's the situation with the Nelson family?" Russel asked.

Alton glanced at Lydia, his expression complicated. He was about to speak when Lydia cut in, "Mr. Solomon, I'd like to speak with you."

Russel's gaze settled on Lydia. "Go ahead, Dr. Nelson."

Since she had administered meridian therapy to him the previous day, giving his legs the slightest sensation, he treated her with courtesy.

Lydia spoke, "I'd like to ask you to spare the Nelson family. My father is getting older, and the company is his life's work. I hope you might show them mercy."

Russel glanced at Alton, then back at Lydia, his expression unreadable. "Your father?"

For a moment, he didn't follow.

Alton clarified, "She's Mr. Nelson's daughter, Mylie's elder sister."

"Is that so?" Russel looked at Lydia with some surprise. "You don't look anything like her."

Truthfully, Russel had never held any real regard for Mylie.

He had only agreed to the engagement out of respect for his grandfather, who had arranged it in memory of an old friend.

Growing up close to his grandfather, Russel had honored the promise without complaint.

To him, Mylie failed to meet even the most basic standards he looked for in a spouse.

But since it was a loveless marriage anyway, he didn't mind and just tolerated her presence.

But she abandoned him when disaster struck, turning him into the laughingstock of the city and driving his grandfather to a hospital bed. That was something he could not forgive.

Lydia met his gaze steadily. "Mr. Middleton is correct. I'm Jaxson's daughter. My father is hospitalized now, and he can't withstand further strain. I hope you can spare my family, Mr. Solomon."

Russel raised the corners of his mouth. Although he was polite to Lydia, this request had crossed his bottom line. "Why should I do that?"

"I'll dedicate myself fully to your meridian therapy, and I won't charge you for any sessions during this period. Of course, if you truly want Mylie found, I'll do everything possible to locate her and bring her to you."

Russel's expression darkened at Lydia's offer. "Your family would never hand Mylie over. If they were willing, they would have done so already."

This refusal was precisely what angered him.

He had honored his commitment by accepting Mylie as his fiancée, but what had her family done in return?

Had they ever shown him the slightest bit of respect?

Lydia attempted to explain, "Mylie isn't actually a Nelson by blood. She only became part of our family when her mother married into my family. Her actions don't represent the Nelson family."

Russel responded coldly, "How convenient. When arranging the engagement, she was a part of your family. Now that there's trouble, she suddenly isn't? Do I look like a fool to you?"

Lydia met his gaze steadily. "So you're saying nothing will stop you, not even if I treat your legs?"

"That's correct," Russel confirmed. "I'm vindictive. What Mylie did isn't something you can make right.

"I doubt you can truly understand how it feels to be abandoned by the person closest to you when disaster strikes. If even your fiancée proves unreliable, tell me who in this world you can actually depend on?"

Lydia was surprised by his words.

A faint smile touched her lips.

Russel noticed immediately. "What are you smiling about?"

"I simply find it amusing how naive you are, Mr. Solomon," Lydia replied. "You expected reliability from a woman you weren't even married to? Nowadays, you can't even trust someone you're already married to, let alone a fiancée."

As she spoke, Lydia thought of Haywood. Six years together–three dating, three married–and only then had she seen his true nature.

Now she was left picking up the pieces of her broken life.

Russel, this powerful man who commanded respect throughout the city, turned out to be more naive than she was.

Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as memories surfaced like splinters embedded too deep to remove.

She had trusted completely, only to be betrayed so thoroughly that trusting anyone again seemed impossible.

Russel studied her face, inexplicably stung by the pain in her expression.

Lydia composed herself and continued, "Since you refuse to spare the Nelson family, I'm afraid I can't provide your meridian therapy today."

Russel's eyebrows rose at what he perceived as a threat. "You seem to have overestimated yourself. You're not the only meridian therapist in the world. I can't get someone else."

"Then by all means find someone else," Lydia said evenly. "I can't treat someone who bankrupted my family and put my father in the hospital." She nodded and turned to leave.

Her hand was on the doorknob when Russel's voice stopped her. "Wait."

Lydia turned back to face him.

Russel exhaled sharply. "I'll spare the Nelson family."

Truthfully, he wasn't confident another therapist could achieve the same results.

But Lydia had shown promise.

If she could actually help him walk again, sparing her family seemed a small concession.

Lydia returned to his side. "I'll gladly continue your treatments. Rest assured. I will do my best to help you recover."

His agreement lifted her spirits, and her tone became noticeably lighter.

Russel looked at her. "I'm not done. I have conditions."

Lydia glanced at him in surprise.

Russel continued bluntly, "Since Mylie ran away, you'll take her place and marry me."

"Marry you? You must be kidding," she thought.

Lydia stared at him in disbelief. "But yesterday you said you had no interest in me. Besides, I'm divorced with two children. Mr. Solomon, this arrangement benefits you in no way."

"When did I say I was interested in you?" Russel replied arrogantly. "Don't flatter yourself."

His dismissive expression was downright infuriating.

Lydia uttered, "I have no desire to marry again."

Russel scoffed, "What? Is marrying me beneath you? Alton, notify the Nelson family."

He was decisive.

Alton hesitated. "Mr. Solomon, this isn't a good idea? You could marry anyone. Why her?"

"The Nelson family owes me!"

As they debated while ignoring her, Lydia interjected dryly, "I haven't agreed yet."

Russel turned his piercing gaze on her. "You think you can help your father without paying the price? Nothing comes that easily. You'll be free to go once we find Mylie."

Understanding dawned on Lydia. He was using her as collateral.

She met his gaze steadily. "I'll help you find Mylie. There's no need for marriage."

She wasn't the type to break promises.

"I don't trust your family's word," Russel stated flatly.

She was stunned.

He wasn't even giving her a choice in the matter.

Lydia studied the stubborn man before her. "If you insist on marrying me, that's your choice. Just don't regret it later."

Truthfully, Lydia wasn't worried about Russel taking advantage of her or scheming against her. She had nothing to offer. Given his status and his confident demeanor, he wouldn't be interested in her.

Alton left the room while Lydia began Russel's meridian therapy session for the day.

The treatment proceeded exactly as it had the day before and concluded without issue.

As Lydia packed up her equipment, Alton returned with a freshly printed document. "This is the marriage agreement," he said, handing it to her. "Review the terms."

Lydia glanced at the papers, then at Russel. "We need a contract just to get married?"

Russel responded coolly, "Of course. How do I know you won't grow attached to being Mrs. Solomon and refuse to leave later?"

Lydia skimmed the agreement, finding the conditions excessively harsh: she would have no claim to the Solomon family's assets in the event of divorce.

She was responsible for locating Mylie during the marriage, or Russel could revoke his promise and hold the Nelson family accountable.

He could terminate the marriage at any time, and she was forbidden from pursuing him afterward.

She was barred from interfering in his affairs under the guise of being his wife.

The entire document read like a preemptive defense against Lydia's overstepping.

She looked up at Russel in disbelief. "If you're this worried about being taken advantage of, why even bother with marriage?"

Russel maintained his aloof demeanor. "I've already explained my reasons. If your family had any sense of honor, we wouldn't be in this situation."

He spoke as if he were the victim in all of this world.

Lydia sighed.

Russel studied Lydia's expression. "What's wrong? Are the terms too harsh for you?"

His gaze carried clear suspicion as if convinced she had ulterior motives.

Lydia responded calmly, "No, I'll sign."

None of his concerns would ever happen.

She wanted neither his money nor his attention.

As for finding Mylie, she intended to do that.

That selfish woman had caused enough trouble and ran away. Lydia really didn't want to see her family pay the price for her selfishness.

Her father, always so cautious, had never anticipated Mylie would run away.

Lydia took the pen and signed her name.

There were three copies of the agreement, one for each of them. Lydia kept one for herself.

She tucked her copy into her bag and prepared to leave when Russel spoke, "Stay for lunch. Afterward, we'll have someone from City Hall come over to handle the marriage procedures."

Lydia thought of her children waiting at home. "Could I return home first and come back later?"

Russel's eyes narrowed. "Are you saying having a meal with me would embarrass you?"

Lydia explained, "I just have something to take care of at home."

Russel asked, "What could possibly be more urgent than your father's situation?"

He had kindly invited her to lunch to avoid her running around, but she refused it.

Lydia countered, "I thought agreeing to marry you was enough to spare the Nelson family."

He seemed to imply she'd need to treat him like a king and not offend him in the future.

Russel said, "That's true, but I said I have the right to terminate the agreement at any time. And ... having a meal with your own husband should be the most normal thing in the world."

Lydia's expression darkened when Russel referred to himself as her "husband". He was adapting to this role far too quickly for her liking.

Not wanting to argue, she nodded in agreement. After all, she was the one who needed his help now.

Stepping out of the room, she called Jocelyn, "I won't be back for lunch. Something came up."

Jocelyn asked, "Oh? What's wrong? Is your dad seriously ill? How is he?"

"He's fine," Lydia replied. "It's something else. How are Joel and Easton? Put them on the phone."

"They're good," Jocelyn said. "But forget about talking to them. They're recording a video right now. Don't interrupt their work."

Lydia was frustrated. "I just want to check on them. How is that interrupting you guys?"

Jocelyn said, "If you want to see your babies, just watch their videos online! They're influencers now, not like you."

Jocelyn could be harsh at times. Sometimes Lydia wondered if her best friend existed solely to mock her.

"Fine," she said. "Order takeout for lunch then."

Jocelyn never cooked. If Lydia wasn't home, takeout was their only option.

But the twins hated takeout and barely ate it. They only ever enjoyed Lydia's cooking, which was exactly why she had wanted to go home.

Jocelyn dismissed her concerns. "Got it. We can take care of ourselves. Focus on your job. I'm hanging up now—game time."

Jocelyn quickly ended the call.

Lydia stared at her phone and sighed. She had worried they wouldn't eat properly without her, but apparently, they didn't need her.

When Lydia went to the living room, she saw Aubrey sitting on the couch, watching short videos on her phone and having a good time.

"Mrs. Solomon," Lydia greeted politely.

If she married Russel, Aubrey would technically become her mother-in-law.

The thought brought back memories of her previous marriage to Haywood. During those first two childless years, his mother had constantly criticized her, blaming Lydia for their inability to conceive when the issue actually lay with Haywood.

Facing Aubrey now, Lydia felt uneasy. Though her arrangement with Russel was temporary, she wondered how Aubrey would react if she knew the truth.

Aubrey looked up at Lydia and smiled warmly, "Dr. Nelson, please have a seat."

Lydia sat beside her on the sofa. Aubrey continued, "Alton tells me the treatments are showing excellent results. If you can help Russel recover, we'd be eternally grateful."

"You're too kind," Lydia replied modestly. "Contributing to Mr. Solomon's recovery is an honor."

Aubrey chuckled, her video still playing.

Lydia asked, "Are you watching short videos?"

"Yes." Aubrey shifted closer to share her screen. "Look at these adorable kids! I watch their videos daily. I keep wondering when Russel will have children."

Lydia glanced at the screen and nearly choked.

On the screen, Joel was sitting on the sofa, holding a Rubik's Cube and trying to solve it.