ã€ŠBITã€‹


 1

    ¡°Alicia <b>Fox</b><b>?</b><b>¡± </b>murmured Reba, bending over to peer at the guest list for her husband¡¯s <b>birthday </b><b>party </b>that evening. This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

    Yes, Ma¡¯am, replied Lucy, her private servant.

    Reba took a long breath, gripping the guest list tightly. ¡°Where¡¯s Mr. Specter<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>she asked, her face turning pale as if all her blood had been drained by some unseen force.

    ¡°<b>He¡¯s </b>in the library, Ma¡¯am. You look pale, are you alright?¡± Lucy asked, concerned. Reba didn¡¯t answer; she hurried out of her room towards the library located on the first floor of the massive mansion.

    She knocked on the door twice, but there was no answer. Impatiently, she opened the door to find Harvey Specter, her husband, standing with his back to her, busy talking on the phone. Hearing footsteps approaching, Harvey turned and was momentarily surprised. He quickly ended the call and coughed twice.

    ¡°Becky? What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked, tucking his phone into his trouser pocket.

    Reba cleared her throat. ¡°Did you update the guest list for tonight?¡± she asked, staring sharply at her husband.

    Harvey frowned, ¡°I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t remember. Is there a problem?¡±

    ¡°Alicia Fox, did you invite her?¡± Reba asked, not bothering to conceal her jealousy.

    Harvey turned his face to his desk, pretending to be busy tidying up the scattered documents on it. ¡°Well, she¡¯s an old friend of mine¡­¡±

    ¡°And also your ex¨Cgirlfriend?¡± Becky retorted sharply.

    ¡°Becky, don¡¯t start, okay? The party is starting in a few hours, can we discuss something more important? I have a teleconference call with my marketing team, shouldn¡¯t you get ready?¡± Harvey didn¡¯t even look at Reba; he busied himself with opening hisptop and sitting on his expensive leather chair.

    Reba felt her whole body tremble, but she had no choice but to leave the library as Harvey had already started a conversation with Michael, his marketing guy. Her footsteps felt heavy <b>as </b>she walked through the corridor towards the winding staircase to <b>the </b>second floor.

    ¡°Maan venir <b>makeup </b>artist, and hairstylist have arrived, suddenly Lucy was walking beside her<b>, </b>panting <b>as </b>she had run from the front door. Reba nodded, no longer interested in the party. ¡°Have you ever seen her?¡± she asked softly.

    Excuse <b>me</b>? Lucy frowned in confusion.

    ¡°Alicia Fox, have you ever seen her?¡± Reba asked more calmly, she couldn¡¯t afford to appear weak. She asked Lucy because before bing her private servant, Lucy was working <b>with </b>Harvey.

    Lucy nodded hesitantly, ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am.¡±

    ¡°Is she beautiful?¡± she asked, stopping her steps, a little afraid to hear Lucy¡¯s answer.

    ¡°Um, she is fine, Lucy tried to answer neutrally<b>. </b>

    Reba squeezed her cold, sweaty fingers and hurried to her room where the makeup artist and hairstylist were already waiting for her.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, how would you like to look for the partyter?¡± the makeup artist asked, putting a sheet mask on Reba¡¯s face.

    ¡°Unbeatable,¡± Reba replied almost without opening her mouth. The makeup artist and some of her assistants looked at each other, ¡°Very well, Ma¡¯am! We¡¯ll make you look unbeatable!¡±

    As the brushes moved on her face, Reba closed her eyes tightly. Suddenly, all those memories came flooding back.

    Three years ago,

    The hotel room was almostpletely dark, with only a faint glow from the lights of skyscrapers. Reba felt like she was floating due to the effects of the alcohol she had consumed at the party before. Half¨Cconscious, she kicked off her high heels and staggered towards the bed, but before she could reach it, suddenly the door behind her opened from outside and someone entered.

    She spun around to find someone she knew well standing just a few feet away from her. He was Harvey Specter, a man who caused her heart to beat faster over the past year. She admired him, and even worse, she had fallen in love with him.

    Not entirely sure what she was seeing, she shook her head a few times, trying to focus.

    ¡°Why is Harvey Specter here?¡± she thought, struggling to maintain her bnce and avoid stumbling to the floor.

    Before she got the answer, suddenly Harvey walked closer to her while taking off his suit. She was about to open her mouth to greet him, but her lips were immediately. sealed by a gentle kiss that gradually turned into a passionate one.

    She cursed herself as she should have pushed Harvey away and scolded him, but he was the love of her life. She craved him, wanted his touch more than anything. The intense feelings<b>, </bbined with the alcohol¡¯s effect, instantly ignited her passion. She kissed him back and didn¡¯t resist as his hands moved to unzip her dress.

    ¡°I want you, I¡¯m crazy about you¡°Harvey whispered into her ear, making her unable to resist any longer. She melted, feeling so certain that her love was not unrequited.

    ¡°Alicia¡­

    Reba¡¯s body stiffened immediately, she was very shocked.

    ¡®He must have entered the wrong room!¡® a voice screamed in her head. She knew normally a woman in her position would shout in anger and kick him out of her room, but her body refused that idea. She couldn¡¯t resist as he seated her on the bed and knelt before her. He has a strong charm, and she was sure they were meant to be together.

    She closed her eyes and everything happened, something that she never dared to imagine before, she finally lost her virginity <b>for </b>the first time in her life with the man she adored the most.

    ¡°I love you, Alicia,¡± whispered Harvey right in her ear.

    Reba felt her chest tighten upon hearing those words, making it hard for her to breathe, and suddenly, she choked.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you alright?¡± the makeup artist asked with concern. Reba opened her eyes and immediately realized that she had been sucked too deeply into her past. She smiled awkwardly, then met her own reflection in the mirror. If only she had refused when Harvey¡¯s grandfather asked her to marry Harvey after that embarrassing room mix¨Cup, perhaps everything would be different now. She understood that Harvey married her out of obligation, not out of love, simply to secure his inheritance. Yet, foolishly, she had held onto the hope that one day he would genuinely love her.

    Three hourster,

    Wed, <b>Aug </b>14

    <b>¡°</b>Ma¡¯am, the guests have filled the party room Are you ready toe out now?¡± asked Lucy hesitantly.

    Reba sighed deeply, ¡°Is she there?¡±

    ¡°Excuse me, Ma¡¯am?¡±

    ¡°You know who I mean, is she there?¡± Reba turned around, looking at Lucy with her beautiful hazel eyes.

    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am,¡± answered Lucy, feeling bad for her madam.

    Reba took a long breath, holding back a stabbing pain in her chest. She cleared her throat twice. And where is my husband?¡±

    Suddenly, Lucy grabbed the remote from the table and pointed it toward the curtains. covering the giant ss window in Harvey and Reba¡¯s room. The curtains slowly opened, revealing the view of the swimming pool and garden where the party was being held in full swing. ¡°He¡¯s there, Ma¡¯am,¡± Lucy said stiffly.

    Reba followed Lucy¡¯s gaze, and her heart shattered instantly¡­

 2

    There, right next to the swimming pool, Harvey and Alicia embraced as if they were a long¨Clost couple. They paid no heed to the bustle around them as if the world belonged only to the two of them. Reba quickly averted her pale face, feeling her entire joints ache, and her chest tightened as if arge log pressed down on it.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am¡± Lucy swallowed hard, feeling guilty

    I¡¯m fine. I¡¯lle down now,¡± Reba replied, trying to steady her trembling body. She knew Harvey had never truly loved her, but being betrayed right before her eyes felt like a humiliation.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, it might not be as bad as it looks,¡± Lucy interjected suddenly, feeling the need to speak up as her boss seemed distressed. Reba smiled thinly. ¡°Thank you for yourforting words, Lucy,¡± she said as she walked out of the room, her right hand over her left chest as she felt her heartbeat control her emotions.

    After descending the ssic spiral staircase of the Specter family¡¯s luxurious mansion, Reba finally reached the first floor. The music ying from the speakers filled her ears. She looked around and found the guests had crowded almost every corner of the party area.

    ¡°Reba!¡± someone shouted. She turned and forced a stiff smile when she saw Victoria, her mother<i>¨C</i>inw, standing not far from her looking prominent in her bright red dress. Reba nodded politely, not moving from her spot. Her rtionship with Harvey¡¯s family had never been good, especially after Harvey¡¯s grandfather passed away

    a year ago.

    ¡°Hey!¡± Victoria called out again as Reba tried to move away. Reba took a deep breath, trying to be patient. ¡°Yes, Victoria?¡±

    didn¡¯t

    Victoria chuckled, ¡°Don¡¯t ruin my son¡¯s reunion party with his ex! I thought you like parties. Just go back to your room and eat your book!¡± She said with her usual annoying expression. Not far from her was Mia, Harvey¡¯s sister, almost spewing wine. from her mouth as she tried to contain herughter.

    Reba nced at them both, then smiled sarcastically instead of getting angry. ¡°Nice try!¡± She lifted her chin and walked away from Victoria and Mia, who looked at her with annoyance.

    From a distance, she could see Harvey chatting with Alicia. They looked very intense

    01133 WHI <b>AUG </b>14

    and close. With almost floating steps, she approached them and h.ochind the sushi buffer, with arge swan carving as decoration

    You know your grandfather has never liked the for a long time; he¡¯s been lying about me! I never took a penny from him! He threatened me to leave you, that¡¯s why I left! Believe me. Harvey! There was no day I spent without thinking of you,¡± Alicia ranted, gripping Harvey¡¯s arm.

    Reba clenched her fists. She knew Alicia was lying; she just wanted Harvey¡¯s attention. She could see how Harvey still had feelings for Alicia<b>, </b>and it hurt her very much. As she was about to approach them, suddenly Alicia rushed into Harvey¡¯s arms. once again, leaving Reba frozen in her tracks.

    ¡°I need to give this woman a lesson.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t what Alicia did that left her stunned, but how Harvey¡¯s hand lifted to reciprocate Alicia¡¯s hug, even though they knew there were hundreds of pairs of eyes at the party that night..

    ¡°Mr. Specter, the Vice President of CB Bank wants to meet with you,¡± suddenly John, Harvey¡¯s assistant, appeared. Harvey released his hand from Alicia¡¯s and coughed nervously. ¡°Sure,¡± he nodded at Alicia faintly and strode off to follow John.

    After Harvey left, Reba emerged from her hiding spot and confidently approached Alicia, who was smiling in triumph.

    ¡°Enjoying your little charade, huh?¡± greeted Reba, folding her arms across her chest.

    Alicia turned to her, slightly surprised, but quickly put back the triumphant smile on her face. ¡°Reba Harper!¡± she eximed, with a slightly raised voice.

    ¡°It¡¯s Reba Specter,¡± replied Reba firmly,

    Alicia snorted. ¡°Too bad! Soon enough, you¡¯ll be back to your birth name-¡±

    Reba felt her blood boil, and she stared at Alicia sharply. ¡°Watch your mouth if you don¡¯t want to be kicked out of this party,¡± she hissed, not letting go of her sweet smile. She wanted Alicia to know she wasn¡¯t intimidated.

    ¡°No one <b>is </b>getting kicked out of this party; I am the star of the night,¡± retorted Alicia, reaching out to take <b>a </b>ss of wine from a passing waiter¡¯s tray.

    Reba snorted withughter. ¡°Dream on! I am Harvey¡¯s wife, and everyone knows it!

    You may feel victorious because of your past, burl chose the right woman!¡± Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

    y loves me, and he knows he

    Alicia burst into loudughter, her voicepeting with the music from the speakers.

    ¡°Harvey¡¯s wife? You should be ashamed, Reba! He married you only because it was his grandfather¡¯s request! He didn¡¯t want to lose his inheritance, that¡¯s it! Just because he¡¯s been friendly to you doesn¡¯t mean he loves you! You should look in the mirror! An orphan like you will never fit beside a cool guy like Harvey!¡±

    Reba clenched both her hands, feeling humiliated. ¡°Stop talking, or you¡¯ll regret it!¡± she hissed, holding back the burst of anger.

    Alicia chuckled. ¡°Let me rify, Harvey¡¯ste grandfather deliberately trapped you both until Harvey identally slept with you. The question is, did you perhaps know about that trap n? You don¡¯t even know who your parents are, do you? It seems like you should make sure if your mother is a whore or not.¡±

    Reba raised her hand, almost pping Alicia, but a strong grip stopped her.

    ¡°Becky! Have you lost your mind?¡±

    She looked up and found Harvey staring at her sharply, while Alicia covered her face, screaming as if she were in pain.

    ¡°Alicia, are you alright?¡± asked Harvey, checking Alicia, who covered her left cheek. ¡°This crazy woman almost pped me for the second time!¡± she lied.

    Reba red. ¡°Nonsense! I haven¡¯t even pped her yet! Harvey, you

    should-¡±

    ¡°STOP! Reba, you better go back to your room; you¡¯ve really ruined my party,¡± said Harvey coldly.

    ¡®Reba?¡±

    It had been a long time since Harvey called her by that name. She felt a chill run through her body. Her breath rose and fell as she held back her emotions. She walked quickly away from Alicia, who was silently grinning with victory. Her eyes blurred with tears, she almost crashed into a waiter with a tray full of drinks in his hand, but someone pulled her, making her fall into his embrace. She looked up and saw <b>a </b>handsome face with a sweet smile greeting her, ¡°Becky? Long time no see!¡±

    *****

 3

    <b>Chapter </b><b>3 </b>

    ¡°Nichs?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba quickly straightened up, startled. Nichs Bet smiled broadly, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to remember my face when all our other friends couldn¡¯t,¡± he said cheerfully.

    Reba swallowed hard. Nichs Bet was her high school friend, known as the chubby, pimply bookworm. She didn¡¯t expect to <b>see </b>him looking so different.

    ¡°You look different,¡± she murmured, eyeing Nichs from head to toe. Nichs snorted, ¡°People change! So, may I ask why the party host was crying this early?¡±

    Reba wiped the corner of her eye with her still trembling finger, ¡°I wasn¡¯t crying, I just got something in my eye,¡± she retorted, not wanting to appear weak. Nichs. nodded twice, ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious why I¡¯m here?¡± he asked, intrigued.

    Reba shrugged, ¡°I don¡¯t know, so why are you here?¡± she asked, disinterested, her eyes focused on Harvey and Alicia walking hand in hand away from the party towards at quieter ce.

    ¡°I came uninvited, just wanted to see you!¡± eximed Nichs, smiling broadly. Reba sighed deeply, she didn¡¯t have time for such jokes.

    ¡°I have to go, enjoy the party!¡± she said as she turned and was ready to walk away, but Nichs suddenly grabbed her arm, stopping her.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± she asked, staring at Nichs¡® hand on her arm.

    ¡°Becky, I know about your husband, everyone is talking about it¡­¡±

    Reba looked up, gazing around and realizing that everyone was looking at her with pity. She had never felt so humiliated in her life, her pride falling to its lowest.

    She pulled her hand away from Nichs and walked towards the main building, her eyes wet with tears. As her feet reached the steps leading to the main entrance, she heard a familiar high¨Cpitchedugh. She turned and saw Victoriaughing while looking at her, with Mia doing the same thing beside her.

    There¡¯s nothing left for me to hold onto¡­

    With a heavy heart, Reba returned to her room, locked herself in, and cried hard.

    She sat on the carpet hugging her knees tightly, feeling not only heartbroken but also confused because she didn¡¯t have any reason to stay. She wondered how much love she had left for her cold husband and cried even harder i he realized that she still

    loved Harvey as much as before, her feelings remained a banged.

    Exhausted from crying, she fell asleep, curled up on the furry carpet in her wardrobe.

    The next morning she woke up with a heavy head, dragged her feet to the bathroom, and stood in front of the mirror in silence.

    ¡®<b>It </b>all feels like a dream<b>¡­ </b>

    She pped her right check hard and screamed in pain, ¡°Damn, it¡¯s not a dream, what should I do?¡±

    Suddenly she felt very nauseous even though she had hardly touched any alcoholst night. With a slightly dizzy head, she washed her face with cold water, which instantly. made her feel calm. While taking a towel from the drawer, her eyes suddenly fell on her collection of test packs.

    Should I try it once more before I decide what to do with this ridiculous marriage?¡±

    Half unconsciously, she took a test pack and sat on the toilet to wet it. She didn¡¯t expect. much; the sex she had with Harvey was more of a biological need. Now she was more convinced that Harvey never really saw her as a wife.

    A bit unsteady, she lifted the test pack and, ¡°NO WAY!¡±

    She threw the test pack onto the floor in shock; two thick red lines were on it. For a few moments, she just sat frozen. ¡°This is a joke, isn¡¯t it?¡± she murmured, shaking her head. in disbelief.

    But suddenly there was a glimmer of hope in her heart, maybe with this pregnancy, her marriage could be saved. That hope grew and spread through her blood, she hurried to shower and couldn¡¯t wait to tell Harvey about the news.

    ¡°Good morning, Ma¡¯am, your breakfast,¡± greeted Lucy <b>as </b>she pushed a trolley with croissants, fruit, and a ss of milk. Reba smiled broadly, ¡°Good morning, Lucy! I¡¯ll cat quickly, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll finish everything you brought for me!¡± she eximed cheerfully, making Lucy frown in confusion, something was wrong with her madam.

    Reba gently caressed her stomach, her cheeks suddenly blushing <b>as </b>she realized she would <b>be a </b>mother. She quickly finished her breakfast and stood up, ¡°Lucy<b>, </b>have you

    11 23 <b>Wed </b>Aug 14 17

    seen my husband?¡± she asked, suddenly afraid

    answer she would hear.

    +84%

    Lucy cleared her throat, ¡°Mr. Specter is having breakfast in the back garden, Ma¡¯am,¡± she said as she tidied up the tes and put them back on the trolley.

    ¡°Alright! Have a good day, Lucy!¡± eximed Reba cheerfully. She would forget what Harvey did to herst night, they would start over. The baby inside her would be the bond between them, she <b>was </b>sure of

    Humming softly, she walked casually to the back garden overlooking a beautiful artificialke. But the closer she got to her destination, her steps became slower before it stopped entirely. At the tea table sat Harvey, Victoria, Mia, and Alicia, enjoying their breakfast. She could even hear Alicia¡¯s annoyingughter that made her stomach churn instantly.

    ¡®Should I go back inside and pretend I saw nothing? Or should I approach them and announce my pregnancy to them all?¡® she clenched her sweaty hands, unsure of which decision to make.

    She closed her eyes and was about to turn around when suddenly, ¡°Reba?¡± It Mia¡¯s voice, sounding mocking as usual. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Feeling uncertain, Reba turned around, trying hard not to stagger because her legs. were too shaky to stand firm. ¡°Yeah? I was just, um, Harvey, we need to talk,¡± said Reba, not finding any other words to say.

    Harvey looked at her silently then nodded and left the table. Reba could see Alicia looking at Harvey¡¯s back anxiously. ¡°Harvey!¡± shouted Alicia suddenly, making Harvey stop and turn to her in surprise.

    Alicia stood up, ¡°Um, actually I have to leave soon, so can I talk to Reba for a moment?¡±

    Reba looked at Alicia warily, unsure of what that snake woman was nning. Harvey nodded, ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll wait here,¡± he said then sat back down next to his mother,

    Victoria.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± asked Reba as Alicia walked closer to her.

    Alicia smiled, ¡°Can we talk over there, I¡¯m notfortable with Victoria and Mia, you know they are very annoying!¡±

    Reba frowned in confusion but followed Alicia walking towards the marble stairs

    11:23 Wed Aug 18 17

    with dozens of apps than would uke th

    the edge of the artificialke.

    say what you want to say!¡± hissed

    Okay, you don¡¯t need to pretend to be nice, Reber impatiently Alicin stopped, then looked into the distance, making sure Har couldn¡¯t hear then converanion

    Divorce Harvey, just let me know the amour you want, I¡¯ll give it to you as soon as be Mrs Specter,¡± said Alicia while bowing her head, examining her slightly chipped nail art.

    Reba snorted, feeling her blood rise to her head.

    ¡°Stop dreaming¡± Harvey will never marry you and I will never leave him! Just go awa Alicia, stop bothering us. Harvey will bea father¡­

    Alicia looked up, ring in shock.

    ¡°Nonsense¡± she eximed then stepped closer and stood just a foot away from Reba. ¡°It¡¯s you who have to say goodbye to your empty dreams..

    She pushed Reba onto the slippery stairs.

    ¡°Nooooooooo000000000!

 BIT 4

    Chapter <b>4 </b>

    Reba felt her body hit the hard steps, and out of the corner of her eye, she could see Alicia screaming ¡°HELP!¡± but everything went dark inst. .¡±

    of heat between her thighs.

    ¡°Mrs. Specter? Can you hear me?¡±

    th only a faint sensation

    Reba slowly opened her eyes, the scent ofvender wafting into her nose. She opened her eyes to find herself in a room that looked unfamiliar. ¡°Where am I?¡± she whispered, feeling strange as she couldn¡¯t feel anything in her body.

    ¡°You¡¯re in Elizabeth Hospital, Ma¡¯am. I¡¯m Dr. Theo¡­¡±

    Dr. Theo¡¯s next words were just a murmur as Reba¡¯s mind drifted back to that morning¡¯s events.

    Alicia, the drizzling rain, the slippery stone steps, theke, and¡­¡±

    ¡°My baby? Is my baby okay?¡± Reba cried out as if her spirit had fully returned to her body. Before Dr. Theo could answer, the door to the room opened.

    Reba looked up, ¡°Harvey! Our baby! Is our baby okay?¡± she struggled to rise from the bed, but her head throbbed in pain. She touched her head and found a bandage covering her forehead.

    Harvey frowned, confused.

    Dr. Theo cleared his throat, drawing Reba and Harvey¡¯s attention. ¡°Mrs. Specter, we don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about, but we assure you that you are not pregnant,¡± he said, blinking twice, making Reba re at him suspiciously.

    ¡°IMPOSSIBLE! You must be in cahoots with that snake woman, right?¡± she screamed hysterically.

    ¡°Reba, he¡¯s just a doctor. Control yourself, or the stitches on your head and legs could reopen,¡± Harvey said as he walked closer and stood by her bed.

    <b>¡°</b>I¡¯ll give you two some time alone,¡± Dr. Theo said as he stepped out. Before reaching the door, he nced back at Reba, and his strange gaze made Reba sure he was hiding something.

    ¡°Harvey! Alicia pushed me! She tried to kill me and our baby! You have to believe me!¡±

    1:24 Wed, Aug 14

    ¶à+84%Á¿

    Reba cried, clutching Harvey¡¯s arm tight. arvey didn¡¯t move, he didn¡¯t try to pull her hand away nor did he try tofort her. ¡°Listen, I¡¯m grateful you¡¯re okay. But you know you shouldn¡¯t jump from the stairs just to make me hate Alicia¡­¡±

    Reba¡¯s grip loosened, and she stared at Harvey in shock. ¡°What did you say?¡± she whispered in disbelief. ¡°Did you just say I jumped from that stone stairs just to make you hate Alicia?¡±

    Harvey sighed deeply, ¡°Becky, I wouldn¡¯t believe Alicia¡¯s words without enough evidence, but a witness is supporting her statement. I won¡¯t be angry at you, but please stop hurting yourself,¡± he said, looking deeply into Reba¡¯s eyes.

    Reba felt her entire body Q

    tremble violently, ¡°How could you? She pushed me,

    Harvey! She was scared when I said I was pregnant with your child!¡± she cried hysterically, clutching her stomach, hoping her pregnancy was still intact despite what Dr. Theo had said.

    Harvey remained still, looking at her with pity as if she were crazy. ¡°Lucy saw it happen, she testified that you threw yourself down the stairs after threatening to frame Alicia as the culprit. If it weren¡¯t for Lucy, I might not believe it. Isn¡¯t she the trusted maid of yours?¡±

    Reba felt pped in the face instantly, ¡°Lucy? That¡¯s impossible¡­¡± she shook her head in disbelief. Not long after, the door opened, and several people entered. Reba looked up and saw Alicia and Lucy standing not far from her.

    ¡°Lucy? Please tell the truth! Did you really see me throw myself down the stairs?¡± Reba asked with a trembling voice. Lucy just looked down at the floor, not daring to meet her eyes.

    ¡°LUCY? LOOK ME IN THE EYE AND TELL US THE TRUTH!¡± Reba screamed, not thinking of herself but of the baby in her womb, which might or might not still be there.

    ¡°Reba, you¡¯re scaring her,¡± Alicia interjected with a soft, feigned concerned voice. Harvey sighed deeply, he turned to Lucy. ¡°Lucy, can you repeat your testimony? Did you see Alicia push Reba?¡± he asked, rubbing his forehead.

    Lucy shook her head, looking at Harvey while avoiding Reba¡¯s gaze. Next to Lucy, Alicia tried hard not to smirk.

    11:24 Wed Aug

    hapter i

    ¡°So what did you see?¡± Harvey asked, raisin, in evebre

    Lucy swallowed hard, ¡°I saw Mrs. Specter throw herself down, Sir,¡± she replied with a trembling voice,pletely avoiding Reba¡¯s disappointed gaze.

    Harvey nodded, ¡°You may go, Lucy, thank you.¡± ¡°Reba¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t! This is unfair!¡± Reba yanked the IV needle from her hand and walked towards the door, carrying her broken body and soul.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Harvey ran after her, but Alicia suddenly fainted, out of the blue, diverting his

    attention.

    ¡°Alicia? Hey, can you hear me?¡± Harvey gently shook Alicia¡¯s body. Reba watched the scene, shaking her head, tears streaming down her face. She knew that her marriage

    was over.

    Reba walked unsteadily down the corridor, ignoring the whispers around her. Suddenly, from the opposite direction, she saw someone she recognized walking casually with a flower basket in his hand. That person stopped when he saw her, his eyes. widening in shock.

    ¡°Becky? What are you doing here? Shouldn¡¯t you be in the inpatient room? I was just about to visit you, are you okay?¡± Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Nic? Can you stop asking and take me away from here,¡± Reba pleaded, her head suddenly throbbing with pain as if the painkiller¡¯s effect hadpletely worn off. ¡°What? Where to?¡±

    Reba was about to say something but everything went dark again, she fell onto Nichs¡® body, unconcious.

    A few hourster,

    ¡°Becky? It¡¯s me, Nichs, can you hear my voice?¡±

    Reba opened her eyes, ¡°Nic? Where am I?¡± she looked around her in panic.

    ¡°You¡¯re in my apartment, don¡¯t you remember? You asked me to take you away from the hospital, so I called a doctor to treat you here because you were in pretty bad shape. So, what happened exactly?¡± Nichs asked, curious.

    Reba looked around the room and then fixed her eyes on the ceiling as <b>if </b>something

    0484%1

    1124 Wed Aug 14 17 u

    Chapter

    was staring back at her. She didn¡¯t answer Nichs¡® question and just cried silently, making him look at her with concern.

    ¡°Becky? Say something, you scared the hell outta me. Did Harvey do this to you?¡± Nichs asked, carefully touching her hand.

    Hearing Harvey¡¯s name mentioned, Reba¡¯s chest felt even more painful. She had never felt so angry in her life that she wanted to punch Alicia and Harvey¡¯s faces.

    ¡°Nic¡­¡± She called, her chest rising and falling with emotion.

    ¡°Yes? Do you need something?¡± Nichs asked, feeling relieved that Reba finally spoke.

    ¡°Can you find me awyer?¡± she asked, still staring at the ceiling.

    ¡°Of course, you¡¯re talking to one. You might not know, but I¡¯m a famouswyer now,¡± Nichs said, half¨Cjoking.

    ¡°I want to file for divorce from Harvey Specter, right now.¡±

    Her eyes shed with determination. ¡°I will make Alicia pay for what she has done to

    me¡­¡±

 BIT 5

    A weekter,

    Reba¡¯s head and leg wounds had significantly improved; at least she could <i>walk </i>without severe <b>pain</b>. She stood in front of the mirror, straightening the white shirt she wore. She was sure she had lost a considerable amount of weight, as her cheeks had be more defined and her waist much slimmer.

    A knock on the wide¨Copen door made her turn. Nichs stood there in his gray suit, smiling broadly while holding a coffee. ¡°Ready?¡±

    Reba nodded.

    ¡°Do 1 look pathetic?¡± she asked, turning again to look at the mirror, unsure about showing up in front of Harvey like this. Nichs raised an eyebrow, ¡°Does it matter<i>? </i>I mean, you just want him to sign the divorce papers, right?¡±

    Reba sighed deeply, uncertain of what she really wanted. ¡°I want to leave an unforgettable impression, to show him I¡¯m not broken even though they tried to destroy me¡­

    Suddenly, Nichs pped his hands once, ¡°I got it! We¡¯ll stop by my friend¡¯s boutique for a bit; she¡¯ll know what outfit suits you best! Here, take your coffee first, you¡¯ll feel better.¡±

    Fifteen minutester, they were at Nichs¡® friend¡¯s boutique, where rows of designer dresses hung neatly.

    ¡°This dress is perfect for you, not too shy but assertive!¡± eximed Nichs¡® friend, handing over a maroon midi dress. Reba nodded in agreement, touching the dress and suddenly feeling a tightness in her chest, still unable to let go of what Alicia and Harvey had done to her.

    ¡°I¡¯ll change now.¡±

    She didn¡¯t talk much with Nichs during the drive from the boutique to Harvey¡¯s office building. Her mind was filled with wild imaginations about her life post¨Cdivorce. ¡°Becky, we¡¯re here,¡± Nichs said, stopping the car right in front of Harvey¡¯s office lobby. Reba turned in surprise, nervously fixing her hair. ¡°Um, I should go in alone, it¡¯ll be casier.¡±

    11:25 Wed, Aug <b>14 </b>

    Nichs frowned, ¡°Are you sure? What if¡­¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t let anyone hurt me again, don¡¯t worry,¡± Reba interrupted, reassuring Nichs.

    ¡°Alright, <b>I¡¯ll </b>wait here, so call me if anything happens, okay?¡±

    Reba nodded, got out of the car, and gave a small nod to Nichs, who watched her until she disappeared behind the automatic ss doors. Walking through the bustling lobby made Reba¡¯s adrenaline surge. All the staff who recognized her as Reba Specter nodded politely to her. She was so respected there; should she let go of all that and end up alone?

    ¡°Ma¡¯am? Are you here to see Mrs. Specter?¡± asked a security officer.

    ¡°Yes, do I need an appointment to see my own husband?¡± she replied tly, staring at the security officer sharply, not epting rejection.

    ¡°No, ma¡¯am, my apologies,¡± the security officer responded, pressing the elevator button. and letting Reba in.

    The elevator dinged open on the 72nd floor. Reba walked elegantly on her 4¨Cinch. ck stilettos. Her usual loose hair was styled into a messy bun that suited her face. Some staff looked at her in awe, while others whispered to each other, seemingly aware, that something big was about to happen.

    She walked past the secretary¡¯s desk and directly opened the CEO¡¯s office door without knocking, and what she saw made her even more certain of her decision. Right in front of her, Alicia was sitting on the sofa, reading a magazine, as if she was purposely there to wait for Harvey.

    ¡°Reba?¡± Harvey said, looking up from the documents he was reading, while Alicia immediately stood up, ring in surprise, not expecting the visit.

    ¡°Harvey, can we talk for a moment?¡± Reba asked firmly.

    ¡°You ignored my calls and suddenly showed up after disappearing for a week?¡± Harvey responded coldly.

    Reba scoffed, ¡°Does it matter? Aren¡¯t you happy if I didn¡¯te back and ruin your passionate affair with that snake woman?¡± she retorted sharply.

    ¡°Stop calling me a snake woman!¡± Alicia snapped angrily.

    Èý484%Çú

    Reba waved her hand dismissively, ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to argue with you,¡± she replied tly, making Alicia clench her fists in frustration. Without waiting for Harvey¡¯s response, Reba pulled out a chair in front of Harvey¡¯s table and sat down heavily. She ced her documents on the table and folded her arms across her chest.

    ¡°So, how does it feel to be the bad guy?¡± she asked, staring at Harvey intensely.

    Harvey¡¯s face turned red instantly, ¡°Reba, I don¡¯t understand your point, but I think you know me well enough that my attitude towards others depends on how they treat me,¡± he replied coldly.

    ¡°What did I ever do to you?¡± Reba didn¡¯t even blink when she asked this basic. question.

    Harvey opened his mouth, then closed it again.

    Rebaughed, herughter growing louder and filling the soundproof room. ¡°Isn¡¯t it funny? Your harsh treatment towards me is solely based on what that snake woman tells you!¡±

    ¡°Stop calling me a snake woman!¡± Alicia shouted, walking closer, but both Reba and Harvey ignored her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve lost a lot in my life, so losing you means nothing to me. I don¡¯t know why you wouldn¡¯t sign our divorce papers from the start, but I¡¯m here to force you to do it. I¡¯m done with this sick marriage so¡­¡± Reba pulled the divorce papers from the envelope and handed them to Harvey.

    Alicia stopped in her tracks, silently cheering,

    Harvey snorted,

    ¡°Why are you in a hurry? You¡¯re probably demanding a huge settlement from this divorce, right? <b>I </b>could smell it from the start, I knew it was always about money. Maybe the rumors are true that you conspired with myte grandfather to trap me in that hotel room that night.¡±

    Rebaughed, ¡°Ah, you probably haven¡¯t read the divorce papers, have you? I¡¯m not asking for a single penny from you! I remember well that three years ago I came to your mansion in Long Ind with just one yellow suitcase, so I¡¯ll leave with just that. Just sign the divorce papers, and I promise we¡¯ll never see each other again until the world ends,¡± her voice choked as she said that. Her chest felt tight, and tears seemed to

    Wed, Aug 14 W

    <b>5 </b>

    to flow, but she bit her lip, trying to control her emotions.

    + 84%

    y¡¯s expression changed instantly; he looked down, quickly reading the divorce s, and froze because everything Reba said was true, she wasn¡¯t asking for any

    <ol>

    <li>y. </li>

    </ol>

    ey,¡± Alicia suddenly stood beside him, stroking his shoulder and smiling sweetly at It¡¯s fate bringing us back together,¡± Alicia said, nodding, convincing Harvey to sign

    vorce papers.

    rvey¡¯s hand moved to take the pen and sign the divorce papers, Reba could no hold back her tears, but she wiped them away quickly before anyone saw them.

    d!¡± she eximed after the divorce papers were signed. She stood up on her oling legs and looked at Harvey sharply, ignoring Alicia¡¯s presence. ¡°No need to d the court hearing so the divorce decree can be issued quickly. And one more ¡°Reba said, deliberately pausing to make Harvey and Alicia wait in suspense.

    <pa turned to Alicia, staring at her sharply. ¡°You, your karma wille soon, very Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

 BIT 6

    Áã483%Ñª

    Reba stood in the building lobby with trembling legs. Her vision was blurry, and her ears were filled with a buzzing sound, making it impossible for her to hear clearly. For a moment, she just stood there, clutching the documents in her hands like a fool. She ignored the people passing by around her. Her tears began to fall, one by one. She cried. without emotion, only the rise and fall of her chest indicating that she was still alive.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Nichs shouted as he opened the car door and ran towards Reba, who did not respond to his presence at all. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get out of here. If Alicia sees you like this, she willugh at you,¡± Nichs said, pulling Reba¡¯s hand and helping her into. the car.

    ¡°Do you want to go home or

    ¡°I want <b>to </b>go somewhere where I can scream as loud as I want,¡± Reba interrupted, not taking her eyes off the window. She let her tears fall without wiping them away. Her heart was shattered; she never expected that to Harvey she was just a speck of dust to be blown away at any time.

    Nichs nodded, ¡°I know the perfect ce!¡±

    Five minutester, they stopped in front of an office building.

    ¡°This is my office,¡± Nichs said, handing his car keys to the valet.

    Reba said nothing; she got out of the car and followed Nichs with a nk, expressionless face. A few people started to notice them, but she didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°This way,¡± Nichs led her to the farthest elevator. Soon, the elevator dinged, taking them to the top floor, the 54th. ¡°You might be tempted to jumpter, so I won¡¯t let go of your hand,¡± Nichs joked when they reached their destination, the rooftop.

    Reba didn¡¯t respond, nor did she resist<b>. </b>It was as if her soul no longer inhabited her body. She had idolized Harvey, loving him more than she loved herself, and when all those feelings were met with cruelty, the pain in her heart was unbearable.

    ¡°Okay, there¡¯s no one here, you can scream as much as you want. Just pretend I¡¯m a wall, don¡¯t mind me,¡± Nichs said, releasing Reba¡¯s hand and stepping back a few feet to give her space.

    Reba looked up; the sky was clear, in stark contrast to her cloudy mood. She took a

    deep breath and then screamed from the top of her lighter after the third one. She bent over, gasping for

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Nichs suddenly touched her back.

    Strangely, her chest felt

    cath.

    ?

    Reba straightened up, nodding slowly. ¡°All of New Yorkers must beughing at me, right? They must think I¡¯m a joke¡­¡±

    Nichs snorted,

    ¡°Who cares? You¡¯re Reba Harper; you can handle anything.¡±

    Reba shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m just pretending to be strong, I don¡¯t even know what I¡¯ll do next,¡± she replied, looking up at the sky in despair.

    Just take one step at a time, I¡¯m sure everything will be fine. How about sushi for dinner?¡± Nichs asked cheerfully.

    Reba sighed deeply, ¡°I can¡¯t keep staying at your apartment, maybe tonight I¡¯ll just-¡±

    ¡°Nonsense! You haven¡¯t even prepared anything for this sudden divorce, so stay at my apartment as long as you want, as long as you need, I don¡¯t mind at all,¡± Nichs said. sincerely.

    Reba looked at Nichs, she had many questions about his sudden reappearance in her life, but her energy was drained by her overwhelming heartbreak. Her mind was filled with thoughts of Harvey and Alicia until she felt like she wanted to detach her head for a moment.

    ¡°Some people areing, do you still want to stay here?¡± Nichs asked when he heardughter in the distance. Reba sighed deeply and shook her head, ¡°No, let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll stop by the sushi restaurant for a bit, are you okay with that?¡± Nichs asked, turning at her as they were on their way to the apartment.

    Reba nodded faintly, keeping her gaze on the window as if the busy New York street. scenery could heal her heart.

    ¡°Do you want toe in or not?¡± asked Nichs as they reached the Sushi restaurant.

    ¡°I¡¯ll wait here if you don¡¯t mind,¡± Reba replied, opening the car window wide. ¡°Of course not! Alright, I¡¯ll be back in fifteen minutes!¡± Nichs eximed cheerfully. He jumped out of the car and went into the restaurant.

    Reba rested her chin on the car window, watching Nichs¡¯s back disappear behind. the restaurant door. Minutester, suddenly<i>, </i>a car stopped in front of her, a luxury <b>car </b>that she knew very well.

    Not long after, Harvey came out, followed 1 Alicia.

    Reba felt a sharp sting in her chest that made her jolt. Her chest throbbed painfully as if a sharp knife had justnded there.

    ¡°They¡¯re having dinner together as if nothing happened between us,¡± Reba muttered silently.

    She turned away when Alicia clung lovingly to Harvey¡¯s arm and was about to close the car window when a homeless man suddenly shocked her by singing loudly in front of her. His voice made Harvey and Alicia turn around in surprise.

    Reba felt cornered. She couldn¡¯t avoid Harvey¡¯s sharp eyes staring at her. Alicia¡¯s loud snort brought her back to reality. She turned towards Alicia and felt her chest fill with hatred and anger. She had never hated anyone so much that she wanted to pounce and tear her apart right then and there.

    ¡°Harvey, your client is waiting inside. Shall we?¡± Alicia said, gently touching Harvey¡¯s cheek.

    Reba felt an uncontroble surge of anger ¡°Bitch!¡± she hissed louder than she intended, causing Harvey and Alicia to look up in surprise. Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°WHAT DID YOU SAY?¡± Alicia shouted, releasing her arm from Harvey¡¯s.

    ¡°Alicia, keep it down; we¡¯re in a public ce,¡± Harvey said, realizing that a big scene was about to unfold.

    Reba knew she should end everything elegantly, but she couldn¡¯t help but vent her anger on Alicia. Not because that snake¨Cwoman had taken Harvey from her, but because she had taken an innocent fetus from her womb.

    She opened the car door and jumped out, ¡°BITCH! EVIL! Baby killer! That¡¯s what you are!¡± Reba screamed, walking quickly and pping Alicia hard when she wasn¡¯t ready.

    ¡°REBECCA!¡± Harvey shouted, shocked.

    Reba felt her whole body trembling. She was about to p Alicia again, but a grip on

    11:26 Wed, <b>Aug </b>14 HG.

    ?<b>+</b><b>8</b><b>¡ê</b>%]

    her hand stopped her. ¡°Reba, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s on your mind, but using Alicial and pping her until she bleeds is really too much, you need to stop.¡± Harvey¡¯s voice. sounded like cold air, hurting her.

    She snorted, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. ¡°You and you¡­¡± she pointed at Harvey and Alicia alternately. From Alicia¡¯s face, Reba knew she wanted to p her back, but in front of Harvey, Alicia had to hold back and act like an angel.

    ¡°I will never forgive you for what happened to my baby! And you, Harvey, shame on

    you<b>¡­</b>¡±

    She spat to the ground and then bumped her shoulder hard against Alicia¡¯s and walked away from them, leaving Nichs¡¯s car still running, crossing the busy street with her vision blurred by tears until suddenly a speeding car hit her, and everything went ck.

    ¡°BECKY!

 BIT 7

    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±

    Reba struggled to open her heavy eyelids and saw Nichs leaning over, studying her face. She didn¡¯t respond and just blinked slowly.

    Nichs sighed in relief. ¡°Do you know how long you¡¯ve been asleep?¡± he asked, sounding very worried.

    Reba tried to shake her head, but her neck felt stiff. ¡°No,¡± she answered, barely whispering because her throat was dry.

    ¡°Two weeks<b>! </b>You were <b>in </b><b>a </ba for two weeks! Becky<b>, </b>don¡¯t you realize how precious your life is<b>? </b>How could <b>you </b>try to harm yourself over a man like Harvey!¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°What did you say?¡± she asked, confused.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you deliberately crash yourself into a car that night?¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°No, I got hit by a car because I wasn¡¯t paying attention while crossing the street. I¡¯m sorry for troubling you,¡± she said softly.

    Nichs waved his hand dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t say that,¡± he replied, pressing the red button on the side of the bed to call the doctor on duty.

    Not long after, the doctor and a nurse arrived. They examined Reba¡¯s condition carefully. ¡°Your MRI scan looks pretty good, but you have a fracture in your right leg, so you¡¯ll need to use a wheelchair for a while, the doctor said cheerfully as if delivering the good news.

    Reba red. ¡°<b>A </b>wheelchair?¡± That was the worst news she could hear. She was no longer Mrs. Specter; her life was going to changepletely, and the fact that she had. to use a wheelchair made her panic.

    ¡°Just for a while, until your fracture heals,¡± the doctor replied, winking.

    ¡°How long?¡± Reba asked, her voice choked.

    ¡°Every patient is different, but typically it¡¯s about six to eight weeks.¡±

    After the doctor left, Reba stared at the ceiling, her mind racing about what steps to take now that she was no longer someone¡¯s wife.

    11:26 Wed, Aug 14 G.

    ¡°Becky? <b>Is </b>everything okay?¡± Nichs asked cautiously.

    ¡°Not at all. This wheelchair will make it hard for me to start over. Why was I <b>so </b>stupid to cross the street without looking around? I really hate myself¡­¡±

    Nichs

    sighed deeply. ¡°Come on, this isn¡¯t the end of everything! You have me<b>. </b>Use me as your legs for now; I don¡¯t mind at all,¡± he said sincerely.

    Reba looked at Nichs for a long time, trying to understand his thoughts. ¡°You know what? Your sudden appearance scares me a little. I¡¯m curious why you were at the party that night when I don¡¯t remember having you on the guest list, and-¡± she couldn¡¯t finish her sentence as a sudden headache made her wince, her eyes nearly closingpletely.

    ¡°Becky? Are you okay?¡± Nichs asked, looking at her worriedly.

    ¡°My head¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t overthink. I¡¯ll call the doctor for pain relief. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    , </i>Becky, save any questions for

    now,¡± Nichs said firmly.

    Becky¡¯s mind was suddenly filled with troubling questions when the doctor returned. She wondered if Harvey had helped her during the ident. Did he worry about her?

    ¡°Mrs. Specter, you¡¯ll fall asleep in a few minutes, make yourselffortable,¡± the doctor said after injecting something into her IV tube.

    ¡®Mrs. Specter?¡® Hearing that name made Becky¡¯s tears flow, wetting the pillow. She closed her eyes and fell asleep again, hoping everything that happened was just <b>a </b>nightmare.

    One Week Later,

    ¡°Nic, how long will it take to settle the divorce?¡± Reba asked as they had just arrived. at Nichs¡¯s apartment.

    ¡°For your <b>case</b>, it might be quicker since there¡¯s no property dispute. I bet about one or two months. Do you want to stay here for now? Or do you want me to take you to your room?¡± asked Nichs as he took out Reba¡¯s sandals.

    Reba just watched Nichs in silence<b>, </b>curious about the fate that brought them together. ¡°Nic, you haven¡¯t answered my question, the one I asked youst week,¡± she said, looking deeply into Nichs¡¯s eyes.

    +<b>83</b>%

    Nichs sighed deeply and then stood up. ¡°I might need a can of beer,¡± he said as he walked to the fridge and grabbed a cold beer ¡°Do you want anything? Almond milk, maybe?¡± he asked, surprising Reba because he knew exactly what her favorite drink

    was.

    ¡°No, thanks.¡±

    ¡°Alright, so you want to know why I was at The Great Harvey Specter¡¯s birthday party that night?¡± Nichs said, his hands busy opening the cold beer in his grasp and quickly drinking it until it was half empty.

    Reba just nodded slightly. She had every reason to be suspicious. After Lucy¡¯s betrayal, she had no reason to trust anyone so easily.

    ¡°I was investigating Specter¡¯spany. I¡¯m working with the DEA because, ording to some sources, there¡¯s significant tax evasion going on. I showed up at the party that night because I wanted to meet you. I thought getting close to you would make it easier for me to conduct my investigation,¡± Nichs said, spinning the beer can in his hand.

    ¡°What?¡± Reba opened her mouth and then closed it again, shocked. ¡°You¡¯re not making this up, are you? I know Harvey¡¯spany well enough¨CI mean, they do everything by the book-¡±

    Nichs shrugged. ¡°Well, the investigation will tell us how clean they really are. So, your question is answered, right?¡± he said cheerfully as if a burden had just been lifted from his shoulders.

    Reba stared at him sharply, searching for any hint of deceit but found none. Finally, she nodded. ¡°Why are you being so kind to me then? I mean, if your mission was for that investigation, doesn¡¯t that reason no longer apply now that I¡¯m no longer Mrs. Specter?¡± she asked softly.

    nas

    Nichs nearly choked on his beer, looking at Reba as if she were crazy or something.

    ¡°Um, about that, well¡­¡±

    ¡°Nic, you know it¡¯s 2024, it¡¯s hard to find people who do good deeds without a motive, right?¡± Reba persisted, waiting for an honest answer from Nichs.

    Nichs sighed deeply. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll answer, but I hope my answer won¡¯t change anything.¡±

    11-20 Wed, Aug 14 G.

    ¡°Go ahead¡­¡±

    ¡°I, um, I¡¯ve had feelings for you for a long time¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

 BIT 8

    ¡°Whoa, easy, Becky! I didn¡¯t expect anything from my confession! You asked me, and I just answered your question, that¡¯s all!¡± Nichs eximed, seeing the change in Reba¡¯s expression.

    ¡°But-¡± Reba bit her lip, searching for the right words. ¡°But isn¡¯t everything going to get weird now? I mean, isn¡¯t it cruel of me to take advantage of you like this when I don¡¯t have any intention of returning your feelings?¡± she said, looking deeply at Nichs without any nervousness because she didn¡¯t share the same feelings.

    Nichs gave a bitter smile. ¡°Well, no one thinks you¡¯re cruel, okay? We¡¯re friends, old friends! I¡¯m doing all this because I care about you, so get those wild thoughts out of your head, and let¡¯s focus on your recovery. Are we on the same page now?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll repay your kindness someday,¡± Reba replied softly. She had been living independently since she was a child. Growing up as an orphan in an orphanage taught her the value of hard work and the taboo of getting something for nothing.

    Nichs smiled slightly, nodding his head. ¡°Alright, think about how you¡¯ll repay meter. For now, do you want something to eat?

    Reba took a deep breath, ncing at her wrist, which had thinned because she had lost a lot of weight in the past two weeks. ¡°I¡¯m craving forsagna bolognese. Can you get it from the fridge for me? I¡¯ll heat it up myself.¡±

    ¡°Whoa! Have you forgotten that your shoulder is still bruised? I¡¯ll do everything for you, so just sitfortably and wait for yoursagna to be ready,¡± Nichs responded. With a swift motion, he opened the fridge, took out thesagna, and put <i>it </i>in the microwave.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking of moving somewhere else,¡± Reba blurted out suddenly, causing Nichs to turn in surprise.

    ¡°What? You mean moving for good?¡± Nichs asked, his eyes widening. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

    Reba nodded three times. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left for me here. If I stay here any longer, <i>my </i>hatred for Harvey and Alicia will eat away at my sanity. They are no match for me

    now-

    Nichs blinked twice, shocked by Reba¡¯s words. ¡°What did you say? No match for you now?

    +83%1

    ¡°Yeah, for now, but someday, I will be a worthy opponent for them, and I promise I will make them pay for everything they did to me. I <b>swear </b>on the baby that disappeared from my womb,¡± Reba said, her voice trembling.

    Nichs was about to reach out to embrace Reba, but the microwave beeped loudly, drawing both of their attention.

    Reba continued to ponder her future while chewing on hersagna. She thought about what she could do with her legs still in the healing process. She calcted her savings,

    ¡°Airne ticket, renting a studio apartment, buying a camera<b>¡­ </b>

    ¡°I¡¯m moving to LA!¡± Reba suddenly eximed, causing Nichs to turn in surprise. ¡°LA? Are you serious? Why LA?¡±

    Reba wiped the corner of her mouth with her thumb, unaware that Nichs was watching her every move. ¡°Um, I don¡¯t know, New York is too cold for me,¡± she answered, her chest feeling like a sword was piercing it as she said it.

    ¡°Alright! LA then!¡± Nichs eximed, nodding his head excitedly as if he were the one moving there.

    ¡°Why are you so excited?¡± Reba asked, feeling a bit offended because Nichs seemed happy about her departure as if he acknowledged that she was just a burden.

    ¡°Well, I have a branch office there, so I can apany you, at least until you can walk again,¡± Nichs replied casually, ignoring the shock on Reba¡¯s face.

    ¡°What? No, you can¡¯t move to LA just because of me! That¡¯s ridiculous!¡± Reba eximed. She didn¡¯t want to burden Nichs, especially since she had no feelings for that poor man.

    ¡°Yes, I can! I won¡¯t let you face all this hardship alone. Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t expect you to return my feelings or anything. I¡¯m doing this purely because we are friends. Sorry, there¡¯s some bolognese sauce on your cheek, Nichs said as he approached and gently wiped Reba¡¯s check, wiping away a sauce that wasn¡¯t there.

    Reba cleared her throat, breaking the sudden awkwardness.

    ¡°Nic, you can¡¯t-¡±

    ¡°Ssh, Becky, we have an uninvited guest,¡± Nichs said, his eyes <i>fixed </i>on the small 11-

    11:26 Wed, Aug 14 W G

    Chapter <b>8 </b>

    inch screen disying the CCTV footage of the apartment¡¯s front door.

    Reba turned to the screen, frowning. ¡°Shit, is that Harvey?¡± she eximed in surprise.

    +83%1

    Nichs raised an eyebrow. ¡°Let me deal with him. You stay here and don¡¯t make a sound.¡±

    ¡°Why is he here?¡± Reba murmured almost in a whisper, wondering if Alicia knew that Harvey hade to see her. A foolish thought crossed her mind that maybe Harvey was there to ask her to return to him.

    ¡®Should I forgive him after what he did to me?¡±

    ¡°Move! I know she¡¯s in there!¡± It was Harvey¡¯s voice, and not long after,

    ¡°It makes sense now!¡± Harvey eximed, pping his hands three times, causing Reba to turn to him with wide eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t understand why you made such a fuss just to divorce me, but it turns out this man is the reason,¡± Harvey said in his deep, cold voice.

    ¡°Watch your mouth!¡± Reba hissed, her voice trembling.

    ¡°You know, you just had to ask. You didn¡¯t need to use Alicia as a tool-¡±

    ¡°Fuck you! How dare you say that to me! One, Nichs and I just reconnected two weeks ago, and obviously, he and I are just good friends. Two, I will never change my statement about the crime Aliciamitted against me. I¡¯m sure she deliberately destroyed the evidence of my pregnancy to ostracize me. Three, get out of my sight! I¡¯m sick of seeing you!¡± Reba roared with fury,

    Before long,

    ¡°Please escort this man out of here. He trespassed on my property without my consent,¡± Nichs said firmly to the apartment¡¯s security guards who just arrived.

    Harvey stared at Reba silently, then angrily brushed off the security guard¡¯s hands. ¡°Get your hands off me. I can walk <i>by </i>myself! he barked.

    Suddenly, Harvey stepped closer to Reba.

    ¡°What are you doing<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

 BIT 9

    Reba held her breath as Harvey suddenly bent down and looked at her from such a close distance that their lips almost touched. Their eyes locked silently until suddenly,

    ¡°She isn¡¯tfortable with that, so leave before I really call the NYPD,¡± Nichs said, pulling Harvey away from Reba.

    Harvey adjusted his tie, gave Reba a deep look, then turned and left the apartment.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Nichs asked gently.

    Reba didn¡¯t answer. She just stared at the dining table nkly, still too shocked by Harvey¡¯s sudden appearance. She suddenly felt very deste, realizing that Harvey truly didn¡¯t believe she had miscarried back then.

    ¡°I want to move to LA immediately.¡± Reba stated firmly.

    Nichs stared in shock. ¡°Okay, but not right now, right?¡±

    ¡°Now, I mean in the next two or three days. I can find a studio apartment online, but I might need a bit more of your help to get there¡­¡±

    Nichs restrained himself from smiling at Reba¡¯s words. He cleared his throat, ¡°I already told you I would go with you to LA. I might need some time to adjust the branch offices here and there, so I¡¯ll be flying back and forth,¡± he said casually, as if it was no burden at all.

    ¡°Thanks, Nic. Um, I think I need to lie down for a bit,¡± Reba said, suddenly feeling dizzy.

    <b>¡®</b>Sure, I¡¯ll take you there!¡±

    ¡°No, I can-¡±

    ¡°Ssh, as long as I¡¯m by your side, don¡¯t do anything alone. Ask for help; it¡¯s perfectly normal,¡± Nichs said, pushing Reba¡¯s wheelchair towards the bedroom.

    Reba nodded, grateful that she had someone to rely on during her lowest moments. ¡°Nic,¡± she called after Nic helped her lie down on the bed.

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    +83%

    ¡°I really want to leave New York soon. Can you arrange it for me? I¡¯ll transfer the costs to you,¡± Reba asked, looking at Nichs pleadingly.

    Nichs nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, when you wake up, everything will be taken care of. Now close your eyes and sleep, you¡¯ll feel better.¡± He raised his hand to stroke Reba¡¯s head, and the atmosphere became awkward instantly.

    Reba cleared her throat. ¡°Thanks,¡± she said, hurriedly closing her eyes. Thest thing she wanted was to get involved with another man; she wanted to focus on her healing. She knew revenge was unnecessary, but she had an overwhelming desire to prove to Harvey that she had indeed been pregnant with his baby and that on that fateful morning, she had been the victim of Alicia¡¯s crime. Harvey had to know. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    The next day,

    ¡°What time is the flight?¡± Reba asked, her hands busy spreading peanut butter on

    toast.

    ¡°In three hours. Are you sure you¡¯ve found a ce? You know, you can stay at my apartment in LA for a while,¡± Nichs said, still hoping Reba would agree <i>to </i>his suggestion.

    Reba smiled slightly. ¡°I want to learn to be independent. This wheelchair is no hindrance at all. Besides, Nic, seriously, you should reconsider your n to move to LA I mean-¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re not discussing that again, okay? I¡¯m moving to LA, and that¡¯s my final decision. I¡¯m going to the office for a bit and will be back in an hour. Will you be okay?¡±

    Reba nodded, feeling strange because their interaction was truly like a couple living together.

    ¡°Great! See you soon!¡± Nichs eximed, bending down to kiss Reba¡¯s head, but Reba stared at him in surprise. Nichs chuckled, ¡°Sorry, I got carried away, haha!¡±

    Reba just grimaced, not knowing whether to be angry orugh.

    That afternoon, they flew to LA. Despite her body and soul aching, Reba hoped that LA would embrace her and piece back together her shattered self. But suddenly, she felt anxious. What if things didn¡¯t <b>go </b>as nned?

    ¡°Hey, all good?¡± As if reading her mind, Nichs turned to her, looking at her with

    concern.

    <b>+ </b>83%

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Reba replied, forcing a smile, unable to hide her anxiety. ¡°This will make you feel better,¡± Nichs said, grabbing Reba¡¯s hand and holding it tight. ¡°You have me.¡±

    Reba knew she should be ted that Nichs cared so much for her, but her heart said otherwise. Perhaps it was because she and Nichs had only recently reconnected. or because her heart was closed off to other men?

    Theynded safely in LA six and a half hourster. ¡°You¡¯ll stay at my apartment tonight. and move to your new ce tomorrow, okay? Nichs said, pulling his suitcase as Reba insisted on wheeling herself without help.

    ¡°Nic, l¡¯appreciate your kindness, but I really want to spend some time alone for now. I and haven¡¯t really given myself a chance to grieve. That pregnancy meant a lot to me, ¨C¡°Reba stopped her wheelchair.

    Nichs nodded. ¡°Okay, okay. Take all the time you need ande back stronger. I¡¯ll always support you, you know that, right?¡± he said, extending his hand to stroke Reba¡¯s head, causing people around them to smile as they watched.

    Thirty minutes from LAX, they arrived at Reba¡¯s new, still very empty apartment, -with only one bed left by the previous tenant.

    ¡°We need to shop; you don¡¯t have anything,¡± Nichs remarked, looking around the studio apartment.

    ¡°Nic, this process of living independently is part of my healing, so please let me do everything myself. Besides, this apartment is very wheelchair¨Cfriendly,¡± Reba argued, not wanting her life to depend on Nichs. Or maybe she just didn¡¯t want to validate Harvey¡¯s usation that she had a special rtionship with Nichs?

    ¡®Everything is always about Harvey¡­ she muttered silently.

    Nichs looked disappointed but tried to smile. ¡°Okay! Should we order food for dinner?¡±

    ¡°Nic, I just ate an hour before the nended. Um, I know this sounds annoying, but I really want to be alone,¡± Reba said, nervously twisting her cold fingers.

    Nichs took a deep breath, crouched in front of Reba¡¯s wheelchair, and took both her hands. ¡°Becky, I know you¡¯re very hurt. Of course, that pregnancy meant a lot to you, but I feel like this is all about Harvey, right? <b>If </b>you let this feeling eat you up, you¡¯ll keep being disappointed. I mean, look-¡± He released Reba¡¯s hands and took his

    +<b>83</b>%

    phone out of his pocket, scrolling through the screen.

    ¡°Look! While you¡¯re busy letting your wound fester, Harvey and Alicia have confidently appeared in public even though your divorce is still in process. Don¡¯t let Harvey¡¯s name linger in your head, Becky, and forget your revenge ns. Move on¡­

    Reba took Nichs¡¯s phone with trembling hands and felt a pain in her chest as she

    saw the photo.

    *****

 BIT 10

    Chapter <b>10 </b>

    On the phone screen, a picture of Harvey and Alicia passionately kissing at a fine dining restaurant in New York spread wildly on the inte. Although they were not celebrities, Harvey was quite famous as a New York billionaire, and Alicia was a former model who had once walked the runway with Gigi Hadid.

    ¡°Third¨Cparty always wins: Harvey Specter chooses Alicia Fox. Where is his wife now?¡±

    Reba wiped away the tears that were about to fall. ¡°I bet Alicia will hold a press conference to defend herself and use this moment to make aeback in the modeling world,¡± she muttered bitterly.

    ¡°People nowadays are very savvy about the news. They surely know that you are the one who¡¯s been hurt,¡± Nichs replied, taking his phone back from Reba¡¯s hand.

    Reba cleared her throat softly.

    AL

    ¡°Nic, just because I want to be alone doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m still crying over my rtionship with Harvey. I just want to clear my mind. So can you leave me alone? No offense, you cane backter,¡± she said, pleading with her eyes.

    After a few seconds of silence, Nichs nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about turning off your phone and making me worry, okay?¡± he said, then raised his right hand and patted Reba¡¯s head, making her wince awkwardly

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯ll be okay?¡±

    ¡°Nic,e on! I just broke my right leg, I¡¯m notpletely paralyzed,¡± Reba replied desperately. Nichs grinned, ¡°Alright! Just, please be careful!¡±

    ¡°I will.¡±

    After Nichs disappeared behind the door, Reba took a deep breath. She knew she should be grateful that Nichs was there for her, but her body¡¯s reaction said. otherwise. She wanted to be alone.

    ¡°Okay, Becky, you gotta pull yourself together!¡± she pped her cheek once, quite hard. She ordered an iced coffee and arge cheese muffin, then wheeled her chair closer to the window and started scrolling through her iPad.

    She ordered cheap furniture online to furnish her tiny studio apartment and bought a

    Èý+83%ˆD

    camera that almost drained her savings. All the items arrived just two hours after shepleted the payment. She wanted to do everything quickly because she didn¡¯t want Nichs to do everything for her.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± she said, handing a tip to the courier who helped her arrange all the furniture. she had ordered.

    ¡°It looks better,¡± she murmured, looking around her tiny apartment. Suddenly, an idea. shed in her mind when her gaze stopped at the khaki two¨Cseat sofa she had covered with a boho¨Cpatterned nket.

    Carefully, she tried to move from her wheelchair to the sofa with the help of her normal left leg, and it turned out to be easier than she had imagined.

    ¡°Nichs is too worried. This is quite easy for me to do myself,¡± Reba said, patting the sofa proudly. Suddenly, she felt much better. Her situation wasn¡¯t as bad as she had thought: She could definitely achieve her goals.

    With more confidence, she turned on the camera and started recording a video of herself. She was a little surprised to find that she looked more beautiful than she had thought all this time. Her marriage to Harvey had destroyed her self¨Cesteem because she was never loved. She had tried everything to make Harvey see her differently, but it had all been in vain.

    Her hand continued scrolling through her iPad, looking for thetest trends. After getting some ideas for content for her newly created social media ount, she hurriedly ordered arge amount of skincare and makeup, thinking her savings would soon be gone. Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The clock on her phone screen showed 8 PM. She was just about to cook instant noodles when her doorbell rang. She wheeled her chair to the door, annoyed that she couldn¡¯t peek through the peephole,

    ¡°Hey!¡± Nichs shouted as the door opened wide.

    Reba smiled, feeling happy, not because of his presence, but because of the Chinese food he was carrying.

    ¡°Wow! Are you a magician or a wizard?¡± Nichs eximed, looking around the room, which felt homier after being filled with furniture and boho¨Cthemed wall decorations.

    Reba shrugged, ¡°I was even thinking of casting a spell to heal my leg, but it turns out

    Wed, Aug

    my magic skills aren¡¯t that advanced,¡± she replied, half¨Cjoking.

    <b>+</b>83%

    Nichs smiled broadly, not because Reba¡¯s joke was funny, but because she finally managed tough, even if faintly.

    ¡°Let me set it up! I already bought the tableware!¡± Reba eximed, reaching for the food bag from Nichs¡¯s hand, then wheeling her chair to the small cab near the sofa where she kept her four sets of tableware.

    ¡°You bought a camera? And lighting too?¡± Nichs murmured, frowning at the camera on the table. Reba didn¡¯t respond, embarrassed to tell Nichs she wanted to be an influencer.

    ¡°Becky? Is there a reason why you bought this video recording equipment?¡± Nichs asked as he approached Reba and helped her set the tableware.

    Reba took a deep breath, ¡°Um, I can¡¯t answer that right now,¡± she replied without looking Nichs in the eye.

    ¡°You¡¯re not nning an online press conference or anything, are you? Becky, haven¡¯t I told you to get Harvey and Alicia out of your head? They-¡±

    ¡°I never thought of doing that! Jeez! I mean, what¡¯s the point for me now? People won¡¯t believe the words of a wife who came from an orphanage, they¡¯vebeled me a gold digger from the start,¡± Reba interrupted, pouring rice onto a te.

    Nichs just stayed silent, waiting.

    Reba took a deep breath, ¡°I¡¯m trying to be a digital content creator, people call it an influencer or something like that, I want to make myself famous,¡± she said, staring emptily at the paper bowl of Kung Pao Chicken.

    Nichs was surprised, ¡°What?¡±

    Nichs¡¯s tone sounded strange, annoyed Reba, ¡°You sound like you hate the idea,¡± she remarked. Even though Nichs¡¯s opinion wouldn¡¯t affect her decision much, she was still curious about why Nichs always seemed unsupportive when she told him she wanted to appear in public.

    ¡°Well, I thought there were other jobs you might enjoy more. I mean, bing famous can be a bit ufortable, right? Isn¡¯t it more pleasant to make your life more private now? For your own sake,¡± Nichs replied seriously.

    9+<b>83</b>%

    Reba stared at Nichs, contemting whether to exin to him that she wanted to be famous so her voice could be heard, so she could get the justice she wanted, so she could know what Alicia did to make her pregnancy seem like it never happened. But what came out of her mouth was-

    ¡°I like being famous. I will have value, and I will definitely have money!¡±

    She was quite surprised to see Nichs smiling broadly as if a heavy burden had just been lifted from his shoulders after hearing her answer, ¡°Alright, if that¡¯s your goal, then I will fully support you. Let¡¯s eat!¡±

    Reba winced, not understanding what was going on in Nichs¡¯s mind. Could Nichs truly want the best for her, or did he have other motives?

 BIT 11

    One monthter.

    Morning sunlight streamed through the gaps in the window blinds. Reba squinted, waking up from a long sleep. Last night she felt very exhausted after creating content for her social media and deliberately drank two sses of wine before going to bed.

    With half¨Cclosed eyes, she groped for the nightstand, picking up her phone that was lying there. She unlocked her phone, and her sleepiness vanished instantly.

    ¡°No way¡­¡±

    There were tens of thousands of notifications on her phone; the makeup challenge she didst night had gone viral just minutes after she uploaded the content,

    ¡°Oh God, is this even real?¡± she murmured, unable to believe what she was seeing. Nervously, she restarted her phone and checked her social media ount once more to ensure she wasn¡¯t hallucinating.

    ¡°This is magic, how could I gain ny thousand new followers in one night!¡± she eximed, covering her mouth in disbelief. She was about to jump but immediately remembered that her right leg was broken. Instead, she hugged her pillow tightly and

    away from smiled broadly, something she hadn¡¯t done since Alicia had taken that smile

    her.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll reach one million followers in two weeks, I can definitely do it!¡± she eximed, then quickly moved to her wheelchair, a skill she had recently mastered.

    She wheeled herself to the pantry and enthusiastically made coffee. She didn¡¯t even bother to wash her face because her mind was filled with dopamine.

    As she was sipping her hot coffee, suddenly the doorbell of her apartment rang loudly. She frowned, not expecting anyone to visit her since Nichs had been back in New York for almost two weeks to handle her divorce trial.

    Reluctantly, she opened the door and-

    <i>¡°</i>Bonjour! I bought you croissants!¡± Suddenly, Nichs stood in front of her, looking handsome in his jeans and dark blue crewneck. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be in New York?¡± Reba asked, confused.

    11:27 Wed, Aug 14 G¡¤

    Nichs chuckled,

    ¡°Well, I have floo powder, you know? Harry Potter?¡± he joked as he stepped into the apartment past Reba, who was still staring at him with a furrowed brow.

    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Nic, did my divorce trial go smoothly?¡± Reba pressed, not at all interested in Nichs¡¯s joke.

    Nichs ced the paper bag containing the croissants on the table and then turned to look at Reba seriously. He extended his right hand, making Reba even more confused, ¡°Come on, don¡¯t joke around! I¡¯m dead serious!¡±

    ¡°Congrattions! As of today, you are officially Reba Harper, and your divorce process ispleted faster than I expected. So, should we celebrate it?¡± Nichs said,

    anyone else. smiling broadly as if he wanted the divorce more than

    Reba felt a sting in her chest upon hearing the news, but she tried to cover it up and just smiled slightly.

    ¡°Good then, um, where did you buy these croissants? They look delicious!¡± Reba eximed, changing the topic. She grabbed a chocte¨Cfilled croissant and stuffed it into her mouth in one big bite. She chewed quickly as if every chew could reduce <i>the </i>pain in her chest.

    ¡°Hey, is it that good?¡± Nichs teased as he grabbed a piece of croissant and bit into it slowly. His eyes couldn¡¯t leave Reba, who looked even more beautiful without any makeup on.

    ¡°Wow, your makeup and skincare products are increasing, this apartment looks much

    suitcase smaller than the first time I saw it,¡± Nichs mumbled when he saw an open filled with various makeup and skincare products that Reba used for her makeup challenge content.

    ¡°I know, but I still feel quitefortable here¡± Reba replied, she could read where the conversation was going.

    ¡°Becky¡­¡± Nichs suddenly knelt in front of Reba¡¯s wheelchair, making her widen her eyes in shock. ¡°Nic, What are you doing? Don¡¯t do this okay? Just stand up!¡± Reba asked, swallowing her croissant with difficulty

    ¡°Do you know the quickest way to forget someone?¡± asked Nichs out of the blue.

    Reba shrugged, ¡°What are you talking about? I don¡¯t know-¡±

    ¡°Start a new rtionship with someone new, it will help,¡± Nichs said, looking deeply into Reba¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Nic, you know I can¡¯t, I¡¯ll just end up hurting you because I don¡¯t have the same feelings for you. Can you just stop? I mean-

    Nichs took Reba¡¯s hands, holding them gently. ¡°I don¡¯t care if you use me as a tool to heal from your deep wounds because your happiness is <b>all </b>that matters. Becky, I¡¯m fully aware of my words, so use me! Use me to bring back the light in your eyes¡­¡±

    ¡°But-

    ¡°At least try! If it doesn¡¯t work, you can always try other ways,¡± Nichs interrupted with a pleading look that disturbed her.

    Reba ed to refuse, but she knew Nichs would never give up until she said ¡®yes¡®. Finally, she nodded, ¡°Well, only if you think this will change something.¡±

    Nichs¡¯s eyes sparkled instantly. ¡°I promise there will only be good days with me, we¡¯ll do everything together, no more loneliness, I promise!¡±

    Reba just grimaced, running out of words.

    ¡°Um, I need to pee,¡± she said so Nichs would let go of her hands. Nichs nodded, still smiling from ear to ear. ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll take you there!¡±

    ¡°No, I can do it by myself. Please Nic, if you still want to try with me, stop being so overprotective, I don¡¯t like being treated that way,¡± Reba said a bit curtly. She didn¡¯t know if it was just her feelings or if she actually saw Nichs¡¯s face turn angry. She hurriedly wheeled herself to the bathroom and locked herself in.

    She just stayed in the bathroom for a few minutes, still too shocked by the change in her status with Nichs. She sshed some cold water on her face, trying to gather her thoughts. Her mind raced with the implications of starting a rtionship with him. Could she really move on so easily?

    As she dried her face and took a deep breath, she heard a muffled sound from the living room. Her heart pounded. She unlocked the bathroom door and wheeled herself out, finding Nichs standing by the window, his back to her.

    ¡°Nic? What happened?¡±

    He turned around, his expression unreadable ¡°Becky, there¡¯s something you need to

 12

    ×ÔÈý+83<b>%</b>ˆD

    ¡°Nic, don¡¯t scare me, what¡¯s going on?¡± she asked, pushing her wheelchair towards Nichs.

    ¡°YOU¡¯RE FAMOUS!¡± eximed Nichs with a broad smile on his face. ¡°My secretary just sent me a link to your social media ount, and wow! I didn¡¯t expect you to be this famous.¡±

    Reba winced. ¡°Yeah, ny thousand followers, not bad,¡± she replied, reaching for her phone on the table.

    ¡°Ny thousand? You better check your phone now,¡± Nichs said impatiently.

    ¡°You¡¯re making me nervous,¡± Reba muttered as she opened her phone, which was filled with endless notifications draining its battery. She quickly opened her social media ount, and her eyes almost popped out when she saw her follower count had hit eight hundred thousand. ¡°Jeez, is this even real?¡± she murmured in disbelief.

    Suddenly, Nichs bent down and hugged her from behind. ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you!¡± he eximed, kissing her head gently. Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

    Reba felt all her muscles tense up. She still wasn¡¯t used to any touch from Nichs.

    ¡°So! Now that you¡¯re this famous, what will you do?¡± Nichs asked, releasing his hug and walking around to sit on the sofa before Reba.

    Reba cleared her throat softly, trying to dispel the difort from her mind. ¡°Well, I¡¯m just going to go with it. This is just the beginning. After a few pieces of content I created in the past month, I gained over eight hundred thousand followers in just one day. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a more promising job for me than this,¡± she said, trying to sound more rxed so Nichs would believe her.

    ¡°Good! Want to bet? Of the thousands of direct messages in your social media ount, some are probably from clients wanting to coborate with you,¡± Nichs said with a confident smile.

    Reba swallowed hard. ¡°Do you think so?¡± she replied, scrolling through the direct messages

    in her inbox. Nichs was right; several brands were inquiring about her rate card. She ced her phone back on the table and covered her mouth with her hand, her face shocked. She still couldn¡¯t believe the path to sess was wide open for her<b>. </b>

    11:27 <b>Wed</b>, Aug 14 W

    G+ 83%#

    Nichs smiled. ¡°See! Without Harvey, your life is even better! You more than deserve all this,¡± he said, approaching Reba and gently stroking her head.

    Those words were supposed to beforting, but instead, they made Reba uneasy. She didn¡¯t want anyone to stop her from avenging Alicia¡¯s crime towards her, including Nichs. But she still put a smile on her face, appreciating Nichs¡¯s kindness, who even moved to LA just to make sure she was okay.

    ¡°Want to celebrate together?¡± Nichs said cheerfully, making Reba unable to refuse.

    ¡°Okay! Um, let¡¯s order some food and cold beer! It¡¯s on me!¡± Reba eximed, grabbing her phone, hoping Nichs would move away from her side.

    Nichs snatched Reba¡¯s phone. ¡°No, please! Let¡¯s go out! Let¡¯s have dinner at a good restaurant around here! Becky, you can¡¯t keep locking yourself in here, you need to go out and breathe in a lot of fresh air!¡±

    Reba winced, squeezing her sweaty hands, then nodded slowly. ¡°Okay then.¡±

    ¡°Great! I¡¯ll pick you up at seven, wear something nice. I¡¯ll take you to a fine dining restaurant that serves the best steak in LA!¡± Nichs eximed, kissing Reba¡¯s cheek, and waved goodbye.

    Reba sighed deeply. She didn¡¯t know why it was so hard for her to get Harvey out of her head. She even felt ufortable every time Nichs tried to touch her as if she were betraying Harvey.

    ¡°Damn it! Have I lost my mind? Harvey cruelly dumped me and chose that devil woman over me! Come on, Becky, what¡¯s wrong with you? You need to focus on avenging Alicia, not on holding onto feelings for your foolish ex¨Chusband!¡± she muttered, hitting her head in frustration.

    ¡°If Nichs really loves me, why don¡¯t I try to give him a chance? Come on, Becky! Life must go on!¡± she muttered, trying to convince herself.

    After patting herself and feeling better, she chose the best outfit she had in her closet but then she realized that she didn¡¯t even have an outfit suitable for a fine dining restaurant, and her bank ount was almost empty. While she was still confused, a message suddenly came from Nichs.

    ¡®Hey, a courier will deliver a dress for you soon, hope you like it!¡±

    +83%

    Reba smiled slightly. Maybe a man like Nichs was what she needed in her life. She sighed deeply, then opened her iPad, starting to n new content to upload on her social media.

    A few hourster.

    At seven p.m., Reba¡¯s doorbell rang loudly. Reba cleared her throat nervously. She felt like a seventeen¨Cyear¨Cold girl about to go to prom night. She grabbed the small ck purse Nichs had bought for her, then wheeled her wheelchair to the door and slowly opened it.

    In front of her stood Nichs<b>, </b>smiling broadly, looking handsome in his ck suit. ¡°Wow! You look perfect!¡± Nichs eximed, not bothering to hide his admiration.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Reba replied with a small smile.

    ¡°Shall we?¡± Nichs moved his hand like a prince inviting a princess to dance.

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Reba didn¡¯t refuse as Nichs pushed her wheelchair down the quiet apartment hallway. Though it was a bit tricky moving from the wheelchair to the car, they finally made it to the restaurant.

    ¡°Sorry for the trouble,¡± Reba said after Nichs finished helping her out and seating her back in the wheelchair. Nichs smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t be sorry! Let¡¯s get in, I¡¯m starving!¡± he eximed, gently pushing Reba¡¯s wheelchair toward the restaurant area where they were greeted by two hosts in all¨Cck and white uniforms.

    As Nichs helped Reba move from the wheelchair to the restaurant chair, a few people turned and looked at them<b>, </b>making Reba¡¯s face turn slightly red with embarrassment.

    ¡°I must look ridiculous now,¡± she murmured, looking down at the cemat on the table.

    Nichs red. ¡°Are you kidding? You look amazing! Listen, stop thinking badly about yourself, okay? Let¡¯s order a nice set menu and go home happy!¡± he said<i>, </i>reaching out to stroke Reba¡¯s hand on the table.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Reba replied. She took a deep breath and felt better after that.

    While they were enjoying their appetizers, Reba suddenly heard <i>a </i>¡®click¡® of a camera from a fairly close distance, startling her. She turned towards the sound and saw

    someone aiming a phone at her.

    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Reba shouted louder than she intended to.

    ¡°Becky? What¡¯s going on?¡± Nichs asked, surprised.

    Reba pointed to where the woman had suddenly disappeared from her seat. ¡°Someone took our picture! She was right there!¡± she eximed, irritated.

    ¡°Becky, there¡¯s no one there, okay?¡± Nichs replied patiently.

    +83%1

    Reba took a deep breath. She was sure the woman deliberately took their picture, but for what? She wasn¡¯t even that famous.

    The dinner celebrating Reba¡¯s eight hundred thousand followers went pleasantly. Reba tried to forget about the woman who photographed her and returned to her apartment feeling better. But on the way back, she was suddenly shocked by a direct message from one of her followers who sent a link to a gossip news article.

    ¡®Billionaire Harvey Specter¡¯s ex¨Cwife, Reba Harper, was spotted in an intimate dinner with her new boyfriend, who happens to be her high school sweetheart, just hours after the court granted her divorce. Something fishy is stirring public questions, has Reba been cheating since she was still Harvey Specter¡¯s wife? Click the link on the bio to know the details.¡¯¡±

    Reba¡¯s body was instantly covered in cold sweat.

 BIT 13

    Reba knew that whoever was behind that article was certainly Alicia¡¯sckey. Although Harvey was a billionaire, the media rarely reported on him because he hated the spotlight. On the other hand, Alicia used to be a supermodel until her career imploded due to her bad behavior.

    ¡°That snake woman must be seeking attention by dragging Harvey¡¯s name into this. She thinks I¡¯ll react and cause a scene, but I won¡¯t! Poor her!¡± Reba muttered to herself. She deleted the news link from her phone and switched it to airne mode. She wouldn¡¯t act recklessly.

    ¡°Everything has to go ording to n¡­¡±

    She yawned and closed her eyes, trying to ignore the disturbing news.

    Two monthster.

    ¡°Come on, Becky, you can do it!¡± Nichs cheered, watching Reba try to walk with a crutch under her right arm. She grimaced in pain but managed to step forward sessfully. Nichs pped enthusiastically, a broad smile on his face.

    ¡°You¡¯re truly a fighter!¡± he eximed. He walked over to her and ruffled her hair. Reba smiled faintly. ¡°Thanks, if it weren¡¯t for you, things might have turned out differently,¡± she replied sincerely.

    Nichs smiled, ¡°Call me crazy, but I truly believe our meeting was destined, I mean the party, the hospital hallway, everything led us here,¡± he said, standing just a step away from Reba, close enough to feel her warm breath.

    Reba felt a sudden rush of nervousness. Although they often spent time together, they had never gone beyond hugging, and even sitting close felt weird to her.

    Suddenly, Nichs lowered his face and everything happened so fast. He kissed her gently

    lv on the lips. Part of her wanted to push him away, but she couldn¡¯t do it. After a few seconds of hesitation, she closed her eyes and tried to enjoy the moment.

    Nichs¡¯s soft kiss gradually turned into a passionate one. His hands began to slip off Reba¡¯s cardigan, but she instinctively pulled away.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Nic. I can¡¯t!¡± she whispered, touching her lips, slightly breathless.

    11:28 <b>Wed</b>, Aug 14

    +83%

    Nichs looked disappointed, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? We¡¯re in a rtionship Becky,¡± he said, still in disbelief at the rejection.

    Reba bit her lip hard, intending to tell Nichs she wasn¡¯t ready for that step yet but instead, she said, ¡°I felt ufortable because of my leg, sorry¡­¡±

    The excuse worked, and Nichs nodded. ¡°Oh, shit! Did I hurt you? I¡¯m sorry, I was¡­

    ¡°No, don¡¯t be sorry! It was not you, it¡¯s me,¡± Reba interrupted as she buttoned her cardigan back up.

    Secondster, suddenly her phone rang, and she hobbled on her crutch to pick it up from the table. ¡°Sorry Nic, I have to take this, she said, ncing at Nichs who was struggling to calm his desires.

    <b>¦§ </b>

    ¡°Reba Harper!¡± she answered cheerfully, knowing the caller represented a worldwide popr.cosmetic brand. ¡°YES, I DO!¡± She shouted with a wide smile when the brand offered her a coboration to be their ambassador. With her three million Followers, it was easy for her to attract potential clients, but her goal was beyond <i>that</i>. She aimed to secure luxury brands to reach a level above Alicia.

    ¡°See? You¡¯ve already gotten so many brand offers, yet you still choose to stay in this studio apartment. Please, Becky, let¡¯s move to my apartment. I promise you can have your own room, you don¡¯t have to sleep with me,¡± Nichs pleaded in frustration. He has tried to persuade Reba for the past two months but always received the same. rejection.

    Reba was silent, looking down at her phone. After a moment, she asked, ¡°Are you serious about your offer?¡±

    Nichs sighed, ¡°Jeez, of course! Why else would I consistently remind you to move to my apartment if I¡¯m not serious about it?¡± he replied impatiently. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll do it only if you agree to ept rent from me,¡± Reba said firmly. She was determined not to take advantage of Nichs¡¯s kindness.

    ¡°What? Are you joking? I thought we were more than that, how could you ask me to ept rent from you?¡±

    Reba shrugged, ¡°Fine<b>, </b>then I¡¯ll just stay here,¡± she replied casually.

    ¡°Yes! Okay! I¡¯ll let you pay rent, happy?¡± Nichs had no choice but to agree to Reba¡¯s request. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s waste no time! I¡¯ll help you pack!¡± he eximed.

    ¡°Like right now?¡± Reba stared in surprise.

    ¡°Yeah, right now.¡±

    +83%

    Reba¡¯s leg healed much faster than expected. Despite undergoing walking therapy, she did it with enthusiasm. Her rtionship with Nichs remained stagnant, with no progress beyond kisses that Reba gave half¨Cheartedly.

    Call her crazy, but Harvey still frequently appeared in her dreams. She had thought it would¨Cbe easy to move on from her ex¨Chusband, especially with Nichs always by her side for the past four months. However, letting go of her feelings for Harvey was far more difficult than she had imagined.

    ¡°Becky, are you sure about taking that job?¡± Nichs asked while they were having dinner together in their apartment.

    sn¡¯t scary to

    Reba nodded, ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s a great opportunity for me. Besides, New York me anymore,¡± she lied. A week earlier, she had been invited as an honored guest at the Met G representing famous designer Arnault Saverio.

    Nichs extended his hand, holding Reba¡¯s.

    ¡°Just promise me one thing,¡± he said with a deep gaze.

    Reba looked back, wondering when the right time would be <i>to </i>tell Nichs that she was giving up on their stagnant rtionship. She couldn¡¯t love Nichs as he loved her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t look back anymore, I mean, you and Harvey<b>¡­</b>¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t! Don¡¯t worry!¡± She barked, quickly diverting her attention to the Vodka Salmon Spaghetti on her te, hoping Nichs couldn¡¯t read her mind.

    That night, while checking her email inbox, she was shocked to find dozens of emails from unknown addresses. She was about to delete them all, assuming they were spam when one email identally opened.

    -Dear Mrs Harper, it¡¯s me, Lucy, your former maid¡­-

    Reba¡¯s body tensed, and the anger she had sessfully suppressed resurfaced. ¡°Lucy? How dare she contact me again¡­¡±

 14

    ¡®I know you must be furious when you see my name in your email inbox, but I had no other way to contact you. I won¡¯t exin everything in detail because it concerns my safety, but I want you to know that I didn¡¯t mean to betray you; there¡¯s a specific reason why I lied then. The purpose of this email is to warn you not to attend any events in New York because Alicia Fox will do anything to prevent you from meeting Mr. Specter again. Please prioritize your safety.¡®¡±

    Reba was stunned as she read the message from Lucy. She covered her mouth, and suddenly everything made sense. She should have known from the start that Lucy would never stab her in the back. She became curious about how much Lucy knew about Alicia¡¯s deceit.

    ¡°Poor Lucy, she must be living in fear¡­¡±

    Restless, Reba got out of bed and went to the kitchen to get a ss of wine to help calm her nerves. She leaned against the kitchen ind, sipping her wine slowly, Despite Lucy¡¯s warning not to set foot in New York, Reba¡¯s desire for revenge only grew stronger. She clenched her free hand, eager to bring Alicia down. She had never hated anyone so much in her life, but Alicia was an exception.

    After two sses of wine, Reba felt better. She slept soundly, hoping that the day of her revenge woulde soon.

    Two weekster,

    ¡°I¡¯m done packing, how about you?¡± Nichs asked while chopping broli on the cutting board. Reba frowned, ¡°Are you going to New York too?¡±

    Nichs looked up, his face suddenly darkening. ¡°Yeah, why? Are be able to meet Harvey freely?¡±

    you

    afraid u won¡¯t

    you

    Reba red, surprised. ¡°What?¡± she almost angrily exploded, but Nichs waved his hand dismissively. ¡°It¡¯s not that, okay? I have some business to take care of at the headquarters, besides, don¡¯t you need a plus one for the Met G? Or do you want to go alone so the media will report it and the news will reach Harvey?¡± Nichs said. casually.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? If you¡¯re so sick of Harvey, can you stop mentioning his name?¡± Reba replied, putting the carrot back in the fridge and leaving the kitchen, Josing her appetite.

    Irritated, she went to her room and flopped onto her bed. She had run out of patience with Nichs, who had constantly talked about Harvey since she decided to <b>ept </b>Arnault Saverio¡¯s offer to attend the Met G in New York. Even though her main goal in New York was revenge on Alicia, getting back with Harvey was not part of her n.

    Suddenly, there was a knock on her bedroom door.

    ¡°Becky?¡±

    Reba sighed deeply, then dragged herself to open the door, finding Nichs looking at her intently.

    ¡°Can we talk?¡± Nichs asked, stepping into the room before Reba could invite him in.

    ¡°About what? Harvey?¡± Reba asked, deliberately standing by the door, folding her arms across her chest.

    Nichs rubbed his face, and Reba noticed his trembling fingers as if he was suppressing some emotion. ¡°Can you understand that I¡¯m so afraid you¡¯ll go back to Harvey and make the same mistake again?¡± he whispered, staring at Reba without blinking.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going back to Harvey, but I think you need to understand something, Nic. I don¡¯t think our rtionship will work,¡± Reba finally managed to say.

    Nichs¡¯s eyes shed with anger. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°So because you¡¯re going to New York, you¡¯re ending our rtionship? Or you¡¯re dumping me because you can walk and care for yourself now?¡±

    Reba felt emotionally drained, making her headache. ¡°Nic, I think you forgot that from the start, our rtionship was just-¡±

    ¡°Give me one more chance!¡± Nichs suddenly knelt on the floor in front of Reba, shocking her.

    ¡°Nic, don¡¯t do this¡­¡±

    ways might be wrong and make you ¡°I¡¯m too afraid of losing you, Becky. I know my ufortable, but please don¡¯t give up on us. Let¡¯s try again,¡± Nichs said, grabbing Reba¡¯s hanging hand and holding it gently.

    ¡°Nic, the problem is..¡±

    ¡°Please?<b>¡± </b>

    +82%

    Seeing Nichs¡¯s face, Reba remembered all the kind things he had done for her, and she felt reluctant to hurt him. She sighed deeply, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try one more time, but if it doesn¡¯t work, please, being friends like before isn¡¯t a bad idea,¡± she said. carefully.

    ¡°This time it will work, I promise!¡± Nichs stood up and hugged Reba, who stood stiffly.

    The next morning, Reba woke up with a heavy head after a restless night. She regretted her decision to give her rtionship with Nichs another chance, but she felt trapped by his past kindness.

    ¡°Morning!¡± Nichs greeted as Reba emerged from her room. ¡°I made you coffee and waffles. We have thirty more minutes.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Reba replied with a faint smile, then sat down next to Nichs, who acted as if nothing had happened the previous night. Fortunately, Nichs received a call from one of his associates at hisw firm, sparing Reba from having to make conversation.

    The flight from LA to New York felt longer than usual, with Reba¡¯s mind racing with countless thoughts. She tried to distract herself by editing video content on herptop and asionally chatting with Nichs about trivial matters.

    ¡°I already ordered a suit from Arnault Saverio. The event is at 5:30 PM the day after tomorrow, right?¡± Nichs said suddenly.

    Reba turned, surprised. She hadn¡¯t even mentioned it yet, but Nichs had already made the decision without consulting her. He raised an eyebrow, ¡°Do you mind if Ie with you? Don¡¯t worry, I can keep the suit and wear it another time,¡± he said with a wry smile<i>. </i>

    ¡°No, I mean, you cane with me. Yeah, the event starts at 5:30 PM Reba replied, not wanting to argue and lose focus.

    Nichs smiled broadly and gently stroked Reba¡¯s cheek.

    Landing at JFK Airport, Reba put on her Prada sunsses and walked confidently. She knew she wasn¡¯t a celebrity, but she had a million followers, some of whom might

    11:28 Wed, Aug 14 Wu G

    be from New York. Her instinct was right, as suddenly two teenage girls approached

    her,

    ¡°Excuse me, are you Becky Blush¨COff?¡± one of them asked, examining Reba¡¯s face closely.

    Reba took off her sunsses, smiled slightly, and nodded. The two girls cheered, ¡°Can we take pictures with you?¡±

    -5

    Soon after leaving the airport, Reba¡¯s arrival, known online as Becky Blush¨COff, went viral.

    ¡°Enjoying your fame?¡± Nichs muttered, ncing at Reba, who was busy scrolling through her phone.

    Reba nodded, ¡°Yeah, this is what I want,¡± she replied, still hiding her true motive.

    As she checked the viral posts about herself, she suddenly received an email from Lucy.

    ¡®Ma¡¯am! Didn¡¯t I tell you not toe back to New York? You have no idea what you¡¯re up against! Go back to LA before it¡¯s toote! Alicia knows almost everything about you, I don¡¯t know how but don¡¯t trust anyone!¡®

    *****

 BIT 15

    ¡°Everything okay, Becky?¡± Nichs asked as he noticed the change in Reba¡¯s expression.

    ¡®Don¡¯t trust anyone!¡® Lucy¡¯s words echoed in her mind. She stared at Nichs for a long time, wondering if he was someone she could truly trust.

    ¡°Becky?¡±

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Sorry, I was just thinking about work, but yeah, everything¡¯s okay!¡±

    She suddenly felt like asking Nichs about his cooperation with the DEA in Harvey¡¯spany investigation, but she was afraid Nichs would get angry because discussions about Harvey Specter always caused arguments between them.

    ¡°We¡¯re staying at my apartment, right?¡± He asked casually.

    Reba frowned. ¡°Um, of course not. I have to go straight to the hotel. Arnault Saverio¡¯s team is already waiting for me,¡± she replied, her mind distracted by Lucy¡¯s email. She knew she shouldn¡¯t be scared, but she was starting to have trust issues with everyone, especially Nichs.

    ¡°Is that so? Alright then, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be busy with the beauty stuff and everything, so I¡¯ll stay at my apartment and see you tomorrow before the party,¡± Nichs said with a warm smile.

    Suddenly, Reba felt a pang of guilt. How could she doubt Nichs after everything he had done for her?

    ¡°Thanks, Nic,¡± she said sincerely. She turned her gaze to the window, and a thought crossed her mind.

    ¡°What if Lucy is ying me? What if Alicia told Lucy to scare me so I¡¯d this town?¡® That idea made a lot of sense.

    for retum to

    Minutester at the hotel, Reba was warmly weed by Arnault Saverio¡¯s team. She was escorted to her room and given a schedule for her fittings, makeup, hair, and other preparations.

    After everyone left, the inte in her room suddenly rang. She quickly answered it,

    @ +82%

    thinking it was the receptionist, but suddenly. ¡°Reba Harper, you really have some nerveing back here¡­¡±

    Reba¡¯s body tensed instantly, cold sweat flooding her back<b>. </b>That voice, the voice <b>she </b>hated most.

    ¡°Oh, hi Stalker! I knew you¡¯d know about my arrival. As my number one <b>fan</b>, you wouldn¡¯t miss it, right?¡± Reba said, trying hard to stay calm<b>. </b>

    Aliciaughed mockingly. ¡°Look at you! Do you think after all your efforts, Harvey will notice you? He doesn¡¯t care if you¡¯re alive or dead!¡±

    Rebaughed so hard she almost cried. ¡°Well, if what you say is true, then why are you so scared?¡±

    ¡°Oh, shut up, bitch! You know I can ruin your fledgling career anytime!¡± Alicia snapped angrily..

    ¡°Believe me, Foxy, I can do worse than you imagine. I have nothing to lose, remember that!¡± Reba hissed and mmed the phone down. Her entire body was trembling. Hearing Alicia¡¯s voice brought back bitter memories of what happened a few months

    ago.

    ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this, Alicia! I promise you will!¡±

    Suddenly, her phone vibrated with a message from Nichs.

    you, right?¡±

    ¡°Get some rest. It¡¯s going to be a long <i>day </i>tomorrow. You know I love you,

    Reba gripped her hair, confused. ¡®Maybe I should learn how to love Nichs after my revenge isplete¡­¡±

    She grabbed her phone and typed quickly.

    ¡°U too, thank you, Nic.¡±

    That night, Reba decided not to join the Arnault Saverio team for dinner and stayed in her room instead. Her mind was too cluttered, thinking about what would happen the next day. She took a sleeping pill and slept soundly.

    The next day.

    After lunch, preparations for the Met G began. Several people who called themselves

    11:28 Wed, Aug 14 Wu G.

    the ¡®m team¡® gathered in Reba¡¯s room and got to work.

    ¡°Um, I¡¯ll just do the basics because Arnault wants you to do your own makeup. He¡¯s really impressed with your makeup skills,¡± said a woman, applying base makeup to Reba¡¯s wless skin.

    +82%

    Reba nodded. ¡°No problem,¡± she replied, observing the six people in her room and wondering if any of them were Alicia¡¯s spies.

    ¡°Um, do you know Alicia Fox?¡± Reba asked the non¨Cthreatening makeup girl. The girl frowned momentarily, thinking, and then said, ¡°Oh, the model who just made aeback?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I heard she¡¯s attending the event tonight, Reba murmured, hoping no one in the room followed news about the Specter family. The girl tilted her head, unsure. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I mean, she just made aeback, and I don¡¯t see why Vanity would invite her.¡±

    Reba felt very satisfied hearing the girl¡¯s response as if it validated that she was far more deserving of being there than Alicia. She observed her m team one by one and felt sure none of them were behaving suspiciously.

    ¡®It¡¯s not one of them¡­¡®

    At 4 PM, Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Becky, are you expecting someone? Nichs Bet?¡± asked a staff member with an Arnault Saverionyard around his neck. Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, let him in.¡±

    Shortly after,

    ¡°Wow<i>, </i>is that your boyfriend? He looks really handsome!¡± eximed the hairdresser, ncing at the mirror before them.

    Reba looked up and saw Nichs walking towards her. The hairdresser was right; he looked incredibly handsome in his Arnault Saverio suit. ¡°Hey, Nic!¡± she greeted, smiling genuinely.

    ¡®He deserves <i>to </i>be loved, Becky!¡® a voice in her head barked, reminding her.

    ¡°Done! We¡¯ll change your outfit now, and youll be ready to make your debut at the Met G! Damn, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be the center of attention tonight!¡± the hairdresser chirped.

    11:28 Wed, Aug 14 Wu G.

    Áã<b>+</b>82%ˆD

    ¡°Hey, have you had lunch?¡± Nichs asked, standing next to Reba, gently stroking her satin pajama¨Ccovered shoulder.

    ¡°Yeah, I just had a small cupcake. I didn¡¯t want my stomach to look bloated from eating. too much,¡± she replied, giving a wry smile as she realized that being famous wasn¡¯t easy.

    Nichs chuckled. ¡°Well, promise me you¡¯ll eat properly after the party is over!¡±

    Reba nodded. She looked at Nichs and suddenly realized something. ¡°Nic, how did you know I was in this room?¡± she asked, still smiling to avoid offending him with her question.

    Nichs looked surprised. There was a brief pause before he said, ¡°I¡¯ve been messaging with one of your m team members,¡± he replied, nodding his head as if to reassure

    her.

    ¡°Oh, I see¡­¡± Reba fell silent, almost certain that when Nichs arrived, none of the Arnault Saverio staff seemed to know who he was. One of them even asked her if she had an appointment with someone waiting at the door.

    She nced at Nichs, who was calmly looking out the window, and suddenly a great fear gripped her. What if Nichs and Alicia¡­

 16

    Chapter <b>16 </b>

    The long<b>¨C</b>awaited moment finally arrived. Reba stepped into the museum where the Met G was being held.

    ¡°Shall we?¡± said Nichs, offering his arm for Reba to link hers through.

    Brushing off her suspicions, Reba took his arm and walked the red carpet with two members of the Arnault Saverio m team following closely behind, ensuring her dress looked perfect.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have any idea how beautiful you are,¡± Nichs whispered close to Reba¡¯s ear, causing some journalists to capture the intimate moment.

    As they entered the main area where celebrities posed for photos, Reba began to feel a wave of panic. She felt a tightness in her chest and her stomach churned.

    ¡°Becky? Are you okay?¡± Nichs turned to her, frowning in concern.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. ¡°I¡¯m not sure I can do this, I mean, look at them!¡± she whispered, ncing at Kate Winslet who was posing gracefully.

    ¡°Becky, you belong here, that¡¯s why you¡¯re here, okay? And you¡¯ve got me! All you need to do is walk the red carpet, climb the stairs, and pose, that¡¯s it!¡± Nichs reassured her.

    Reba closed her eyes, reminding herself why she was there. She took another deep breath and opened her eyes to see Nichs smiling at her.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you,¡± she murmured honestly, her suspicions fading. Among all the Arnault Saverio staff at the hotel, how could she suspect Nichs?

    Nichs smiled,

    ¡°This is your turn,e on!¡± he nodded, encouraging Reba to continue.

    ¡°Over here! Becky, over here!¡± a female journalist shouted, making Reba feel pleased to be recognized as Becky Blush¨COff. As Reba posed with Nichs standing next to her, she suddenly saw Alicia entering in a red dress that matched her personality, and shortly after-

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Harvey Specter? Wait, isn¡¯t Becky Blush¨COff, I mean Reba Harper, his <b>ex- </b>wife? Wow, this is going <i>to </i>be big news even though they¡¯re not the main stars tonight!¡±

    11:31 Wed, Aug 14 ti Ww¡¤

    ¡°Becky! Did you know your ex¨Chusband would be here? Turn around! He¡¯s right there! What do you think?¡± ¨¤ male journalist shouted obnoxiously.

    Reba felt her face heat <b>up</b>, she looked down at her stilettos,

    ¡°Lift your head, Becky! Are you giving them a free show of a wounded ex¨Cwife?¡± Nichs whispered, startling Reba. Thest thing she wanted was to look weak in front of Harvey and Alicia. She lifted her head, straightened her back, and continued posing as some journalists kept taking their pictures.

    As she was about to turn around, her eyes locked with Harvey¡¯s, standing not <b>far </b>from her and Nichs. The world seemed to stop. Reba felt weightless, experiencing an indescribable floating sensation. For a few moments, she and Harvey just stared at each other, even though it was only a fraction of a second, she could see the amazement in Harvey¡¯s eyes as he looked at her. No matter how bad their rtionship was, <i>they </i>had spent three years together.

    ¡°Reba! I didn¡¯t expect to see you here,¡± greeted Alicia with a broad smile and eyes filled with hatred.

    Reba just scoffed, not responding. She nodded to Nichs, signaling him to take her away from Alicia and Harvey.

    Nichs nodded, briefly ncing at Alicia and Harvey before leading Reba into the museum where hundreds of famous people were mingling.

    ¡°Is your heart still racing after seeing that bastard?¡± Nichs asked once they were far enough from Alicia and Harvey. Reba turned, surprised, ¡°Really?¡± she replied, annoyed.

    ¡°Becky, I think we need a little touch¨Cup, could youe with me for a moment?¡± asked one of the Arnault Saverio staff who had been following her. Reba nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll back,¡± she said to Nichs. She followed the staff member down a hallway to a restroom and stood there while the staff member finished their work.

    ¡°Okay, perfect!¡± eximed the staff member after applying lip cream to Reba¡¯s lips. Looking more perfect, she returned to the party area and found Nichs was not where he had been.

    She looked around and everyone seemed busy chatting with each other, as if she were the only <b>one </b>who didn¡¯t know anyone at this cool event. She took a white wine from <b>a </b>passing waiter and sipped it slowly, needing the alcohol to regain her confidence.

    +81%1

    ¡®Where¡¯s that snake woman?¡® she wondered, looking for Alicia but failing to find her. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    ¦°

    <i>¡°</i>You¡¯re Becky Blush¨COff, right?¡± Suddenly, a young actress named Emily Peterson, who was rising to fame, greeted her, leaving her stunned. She nodded slowly, ¡°Yeah, you know me?¡± she asked incredulously.

    Emily waved her hand, ¡°Are you kidding? You¡¯re amazing with your makeup challenges. I even asked my makeup artist to do my look like the one you didst week for my birthday! I think we should take a photo together!¡± she chirped, signaling her assistant to help take the picture.

    ¡°God¡­¡± Reba still couldn¡¯t believe that Emily Peterson, a top actress with sixteen million followers, had just asked to take a photo with her.

    The party continued, she still didn¡¯t know where Nichs was but began to feel rxed as some people genuinely chatted with her. Suddenly, she felt the need to go to the toilet after finishing three sses of white wine. ¡°I¡¯ll help you,¡± said the Arnault staff member when she mentioned needing to pee.

    ¡°No need, I can do it myself, this dress isfortable enough! Don¡¯t worry, I promise I won¡¯t ruin it!¡± Reba said, feeling sorry because the staff looked exhausted.

    She walked lightly down the hallway to the restroom, but suddenly a hand grabbed her, pulling her into a narrow nook just big enough for two people. Reba looked up and froze when she found Harvey standing close in front of her, looking down at her with an unreadable expression.

    ¡°What the fuck are you doing? Let go of me!¡± Reba snapped coldly, but Harvey refused to release his grip. For a few moments, they just stared at each other in silence, until Reba tried to leave the nook but Harvey held her back.

    ¡°Becky! Where have you been? I¡¯ve missed you so much¡­¡±

    Reba red, unable to believe what she was hearing.

 BIT 17

    +81%

    ¡°So, is this your new habit? Teasing your ex¨Cwife just to embarrass her? Keep your words to yourself, I don¡¯t need them,¡± she said, jerking her hand free from Harvey¡¯s grasp.

    Harvey looked at Reba in shock. He was about to say something, but Reba shook. her head.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare act as if what happened to me is normal! I know you never loved me and you don¡¯t need to exin that, but letting our baby die in Alicia¡¯s hands is a sin you¡¯ll carry forever!¡± Reba hissed, her chest heaving with emotion.

    ¡°Becky, there was never a baby-

    ¡°THERE WAS! I¡¯ll prove it to you! We¡¯ll see!¡± Reba snapped and stormed out of the narrow alcove. Behind her, Harvey watched her with uncertainty. He had never missed someone so much in his life. He never thought Reba, the woman he believed he didn¡¯t love, could create such a huge void in <b>his </b>heart. Even Alicia¡¯s presence couldn¡¯t fill that void.

    Meanwhile, Reba hid in the restroom, trying to calm herself down.

    ¡®How could Harvey talk to me like everything was normal as if nothing terrible happened between us before we separated? Did the pain I felt all this time mean nothing to him?¡® She ranted silently.

    After calming herself, Reba returned to the party, her moodpletely altered. Her encounter with Harvey left her feeling chaotic, calling her an idiot because her body seemed to betray her sanity. She couldn¡¯t lie to herself that she missed Harvey¡¯s touch. more than anything.

    ¡°Becky, where have you been?¡± Suddenly, Nichs appeared behind her.

    ¡°Restroom. You?¡± she asked, looking around in confusion because Nichs had disappeared for a while. ¡°I got a call from the firm, sorry for leaving without notice,¡± he replied, holding Reba¡¯s hand. ¡°Your hands are so cold, are you feeling sick?¡± he asked, squeezing Reba¡¯s cold fingers.

    Reba cleared her throat softly, unable to remove Harvey¡¯s face from her head. ¡°Yeah, maybe because I haven¡¯t eaten enough since morning,¡± she replied, finding a usible

    excuse.

    Wed, Aug 14 x1

    Chapter <b>17 </b>

    ¡°Have you heard? E¨Cnews posted your picture on their social media feed,¡± Nichs murmured lightly. Reba widened her eyes in surprise, ¡°Really?¡± Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    <b>+</b>81%

    Nichs grimaced, ¡°Yeah, but they paired your photo with Alicia¡¯s<b>. </b>It looks like E¨Cnews is trying to get the inte topare you two. If you don¡¯t want to be seen as an unhappy ex¨Cwife, you better stick with me like glue, okay?¡±

    Reba forced a smile, impatient to check her phone and read thements about her. But the Met G was still ongoing, and the Arnault Saverio team asked her to meet their ambassadors from other countries. As she carried out her duties, Nichs stayed close by her side, not leaving her alone even just a second.

    Everything was going well until a reporter suddenly approached her and thrust a microphone in her face. ¡°Becky, there¡¯s a rumor that you deliberately fell down the

    pstairs and crashed into a car just to frame Alicia Fox. <i>Is </i>that true?¡±

    steep

    Reba stared in shock, remaining silent momentarily until she heard Nichs say, ¡°Becky is here representing Arnault Saverio, so she won¡¯t be answering any questions other than that. Excuse us.¡± Nichs took her hand and led her away from the crowd.

    ¡°Wait, stop!¡± Reba cried, halting in her tracks and causing Nichs to turn to her in surprise.

    ¡°I¡¯m not guilty, why should I avoid her? I¡¯ll answer that damn question!¡± Reba shouted. She shook off Nichs¡¯s grip and prepared to approach the reporter, but Nichs quickly blocked her.

    ¡°Do you have any evidence to refute that statement?¡± Nichs asked gently.

    Reba wanted to say she had Lucy¡¯s confession email, but she remembered Lucy¡¯s warning not <i>to </i>trust anyone so she shook her head slowly instead.

    Nichs sighed deeply, ¡°<i>You¡¯ll </i>only make them more eager to chase you and bombard you with questions that will make you look even crazier because you don¡¯t have proof to refute it. So, how about we skip the after¨Cparty and go to dinner instead? You must be hungry, right?¡±

    Reba nodded, deciding to let Alicia win for now.

    about ¡°Wait here, no one will be around. I¡¯ll get the car,¡± Nichs said, quickly disappearing from Reba¡¯s sight. ¡°Shit! Where should I start?¡± Reba muttered, thinking the best way to begin her revenge n against Alicia.

    31 Wed, Aug 14

    ¦°

    While she was busy debating with herself, a very familiar car suddenly drove by and stopped right in front of her. Reba frowned in confusion. Shortly after, the car door opened, and Harvey stepped out, approaching her.

    Every encounter with her ex¨Chusband made the world seem to move in slow motion. She looked at Harvey, her heart pounding faster than ever. It would be a lie to say she had moved on from him because, in reality, he still provided the best energy for her.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± she hissed cautiously..

    Harvey stopped in front of her. ¡°rity,¡± he answered in his deep, charismatic voice.

    Reba scoffed. ¡°Isn¡¯t my confession clear enough for you? Didn¡¯t I tell you that your beloved woman deliberately pushed me down the stairs because I was carrying your baby¨Cour baby!¡±

    Harvey sighed deeply. ¡°Becky, the doctor himself said you weren¡¯t pregnant at the time, and Lucy¡¯s confession-¡±

    ¡°What? What confession? Lucy lied because-¡± Reba¡¯s words caught in her throat as

    saw Alicia walking quickly towards them, looking furious.

    ¡°Harvey, what are you doing here?¡± Alicia asked, almost in tears. Reba rolled her eyes. in disgust. Harvey sighed deeply, looking back and forth between Alicia and Reba.

    ¡°She just wants to know if you¡¯re a liar or not. Trust me, Foxy, no matter how well you hide a carcass,

    it will still smell. I¡¯ll just wait for the universe to reveal your lies. Harvey, I think you¡¯re smart enough to analyze a lie unless your Cum Laude degree is fake. Okay, I¡¯m leaving, my ride¡¯s here!¡± Reba said, stepping towards Nichs¡¯s car, which had just pulled up. As she was about to get into the car, she suddenly heard Harvey shout,

    ¡°So, the rumors are true? You secretly cheated on me with him while we were still married, didn¡¯t you?¡±

    Reba clenched her fists. She turned around, walked quickly up to Harvey, and pped him hard.

    *****

 BIT 18

    <b>Chapter </b>18

    ¡°Bitch! Don¡¯t you darey a hand on his facel Alicia yelled, rushing to attack Reba, but Harvey stopped her by extending his right arm.

    Reba and Harvey stared at each other in silence, unaffected by themotion around them. Strangely, Reba didn¡¯t detect any anger on her ex¨Chusband¡¯s face, even after she had pped him so hard.

    ¡°Becky? Let¡¯s go!¡± Nichs pulled Reba¡¯s Hand, guiding her into the car. Even as Reba sat down and fastened her seatbelt, Harvey kept watching her with his indescribable expression that made Reba shudder.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Nichs asked, reaching out to touch Reba¡¯s cheek. He did it deliberately, ensuring Harvey could see their intimacy through the open car window.

    Reba took a deep breath and nodded, not saying a word. As Nichs¡¯s car sped away from the museum suddenly, Reba felt tight in her chest, the same feeling she had experienced when she first separated from her ex¨Chusband. She realized how much she loved that arrogant man and how impossible it was to rece him, no matter how hard she tried.

    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t worry about them, okay? Alicia and Harvey are a perfect match¨Ca snake and a devil. I know you¡¯re angry and hate them, but don¡¯t let yourself get drawn into revenge; it¡¯s pointless. Let¡¯s finish our work here and get back to LA as soon as possible.¡± Nichs said earnestly. He even smiled when he said that.

    Reba felt a surge of emotions but managed to keep them in check. She gave a small, expressionless nod and checked her phone before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll stay here for about a month. I have some projects toplete, and the contracts are too valuable to turn.

    down.¡±

    ¡°What? A month? But-¡±

    T

    you

    from

    ¡°Nic, I know this sounds harsh, but I really want to focus on my career. I told the start that starting a new rtionship would be hard for me. You encouraged me to try with you, so I did, and I¡¯ve been trying to fall in love with you every day, but I can¡¯t¡­¡± Reba closed her eyes with her left hand <b>as </b>her head throbbed suddenly. Nichs stared, shocked. ¡°What do you mean? Are you breaking up with me?¡± he hissed, pulling the car over suddenly, causing Reba to grip the dashboard to avoid hitting her head.

    Aug 14

    <b>+</b>81%

    ¡°You¡¯re wasting your time with me, Nic. I want to feel the same way about you, but I can¡¯t,

    way even a spark. My heart is too broken to love anyone else. You don¡¯t have to

    wait for me! It¡¯ll take years, God knows how long, and you don¡¯t deserve to wait without certainty. So let¡¯s end this here, please¡­¡± Reba finally found the courage to express feelings she had held back for months.

    ¡°How could you?¡± Nichs shook his head, unable to believe what he was hearing. ¡°This is all because you saw Harvey earlier, isn¡¯t it? Do you still love that arrogant man after what he had done to you? Where¡¯s yourmon sense?¡±

    Reba sighed deeply.

    ¡°It¡¯s not about Harvey, okay? It¡¯s just me. I don¡¯t want to give you false hope and make you wait. You deserve someone who truly loves you. I appreciate all you¡¯ve done for me, but for now, I think staying friends is best. I¡¯m burdened by trying to love while I¡¯m still so hurt,¡± she said honestly, hiding the fact that she also distrusted Nichs after receiving an email from Lucy.

    Nichs¡¯s face turned red, his jaw clenched, and disappointment was evident in his eyes. For a moment, Reba thought he would explode and yell at her, but his response surprised her.

    ¡°Alright, <b>I </b>won¡¯t force you into a rtionship. But I don¡¯t want things to change between us. I don¡¯t want any awkwardness, so can we stay like this?¡± Nichs said, extending his hand to hold Reba¡¯s cold fingers.

    ¡°Stay like this?¡± Reba asked, confused, because she truly wanted to end <i>it</i><i>. </i>

    ¡°I mean, can we stay good friends-¡±

    ¡°Nic, of course, we¡¯ll still be friends. Ending ourmitment doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯re enemies, but we can¡¯t stay like this. I need to move out of your apartment,¡± Reba interrupted before Nichs could misunderstand her again.

    Nichs swallowed hard, shocked. He turned to face forward, driving in silence, not responding to Reba¡¯s words as if they were too painful to acknowledge.

    ¡°Nic, I¡¯m sorry-¡± Reba felt a sudden pang of guilt. She knew she should be grateful and reciprocate Nichs¡¯s kindness appropriately, but she was too tormented to continue.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t <b>be </b>sorry,¡± Nichs finally spoke, sighing deeply and nodding. ¡°I respect your

    decision. So, do you still want to have dinner with me, or should I take you to your hotel?¡± he asked without looking at her.

    Reba exhaled in relief as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She smiled slightly, pushing aside her suspicion about Nichs¡¯s involvement with Alicia. ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll have dinner with you! This dress is too good to wear for just a short while; I¡¯ll keep it on as long as possible!¡± she said cheerfully, trying to dispel the awkwardness.

    Nichs nodded, smiling thinly, keeping his focus on the road. His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, silently channeling his anger.

    After enjoying dinner and a few sses of wine, the tension between them gradually eased. Reba felt morefortable talking with Nichs as a friend, without any

    pressure.

    ¡°Ah, this is so nice! Finally, I can really talk to you!¡± Reba said, swirling her wine ss.

    Nichs frowned slightly, ¡°What do you mean? Haven¡¯t we-

    ¡°Well, ever since you showed interest in me, I¡¯ve honestly held back and unknowingly built a wall between us. But now, I feel morefortable,¡± Reba interrupted honestly. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Nichs¡¯s good reaction had significantly reduced her suspicion towards him.

    Nichs gave a faint smile, lifting the wine bottle <i>to </i>refill Reba¡¯s ss while ignoring his own.

    ¡°You¡¯re not pouring your ss?¡± Reba asked, her face slightly flushed.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m driving.¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°Alright, this will be myst ss before we go,¡± she said, sipping her wine slowly.

    Meanwhile, Nichs watched the woman he had admired for so long, feeling intensely angry that he couldn¡¯t have her. But he knew forcing her wouldn¡¯t change anything between them. He racked his brain, looking for a way to make her his forever.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll take you back to your hotel,¡± Nichs said, helping Reba who was slightly drunk, up from her chair.

    Wed, Aug 14 ti

    +81%

    Reba frowned. She did feel a bit drunk, but she was still fully conscious. She lightly pped her cheeks, trying to stay alert, and sat beside Nichs while scrolling through her phone to keep herself awake.

    Nichs started the car and drove towards the hotel. Once they arrived at the lobby, he turned to look at Reba deeply.

    ¡°Becky, can I ask you for one thing?¡±

    Reba looked up. ¡°Okay? What is it?¡±

    ¡°Can.l¨Ckiss you onest time?¡± he asked.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Please? I promise our rtionship will be nothing more than friends after this,¡± Nichs said, his eyes dim as he looked at Reba¡¯s pink lips.

    Reba nodded stiffly<i>. </i>Nichs quickly leaned in and kissed her passionately. He knew that not far from them, someone was watching.

 BIT 19

    @ +81%

    ¡°Nic, I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t-¡± Reba pulled away as Nichs¡¯s hand started to move up her thigh. Nichs looked at her with disappointment, as if her rejection deeply hurt

    him.

    They sat in silence for a moment until a hotel security guard knocked on the car

    window and asked if they were nning to drop off or park. Reba turned to look at Nichs, who was staring nkly at the steering wheel. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Nic, but I think I have to-¡± she pointed her finger at the hotel entrance.

    Nichs nodded. ¡°No worries, love will find its way! In the end, you¡¯ll realize that not one loves you more than I do! So, good night, Becky!¡± he interrupted, not looking at Reba at all.

    Despite being confused by Nichs¡¯s reaction, Reba nodded twice and quickly opened the car door to get out. ¡°Wait! I¡¯ll walk you to the elevator!¡± Nichs suddenly called out. He jumped out and handed his car keys to the valet.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to, it¡¯ste, just go home,¡± Reba said, feeling ufortable with Nichs¡¯s increasingly strange behavior.

    Nichs grinned coldly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I have to he replied, taking Reba¡¯s hand and causing her to shiver. ¡°Nic, what are you doing?¡±

    ¡°Let her go! She¡¯s ufortable with that!¡± hissed a voice from behind them. Reba and Nichs turned to see Harvey Specter standing with his hands in his pockets.

    Reba¡¯s stomach dropped. She swallowed nervously. On one hand, she wanted to pull her hand away from Nichs, but on the other, she didn¡¯t want to appear weak in front of her ex¨Chusband who had abandoned her. As her instincts urged her to pull her hand away from Nichs, he tightened his grip until Reba¡¯s knuckles ached.

    ¡°Harvey Specter! So you¡¯re the hero now? Sorry, but Becky doesn¡¯t need you! Isn¡¯t <i>that </i>right, babe?¡± Nichs turned to Reba with <i>a </i>meaningful look.

    Reba looked back at Harvey and felt her heart pound. ¡®Don¡¯t be stupid, Becky! He abandoned you for that evil woman, don¡¯t be swayed by his fake kindness!¡® a voice in her head scolded her.

    ntinued toward the elevator with Nichs still ¡°I¡¯m tired,¡± was all she could say. She holding her hand, grinning triumphantly. Behind them, Harvey clenched his jaw,

    11:32 Wed, Aug 14 ti W

    <b>+</b><b>81</b>%

    realizing that Reba was more than just an essory in his life. His chest ached as he faced the reality that he might lose her forever.

    ¡°You can let go of my hand now,¡± Reba hissed at Nichs when they reached the clevator, and Harvey was far behind.

    Before Nichs could release her, the elevator doors dinged open and Alicia Fox stepped out with her two assistants. She smirked upon seeing Reba and Nichs holding hands.

    ¡°Such a sweet couple!¡± she eximed annoyingly. She stopped right in front of Reba. ¡°See? Don¡¯t get too caught up in ying the victim. I mean, you¡¯re even enjoying all this, aren¡¯t you? Turns out you¡¯re more hypocritical than I thought!¡±

    ¡°Just shut your mouth!¡± Nichs snapped angrily.

    Alicia chuckled. ¡°Whatever, I don¡¯t have time for this! My fianc¨¦ is waiting for me in the lobby, bye!¡±

    Reba felt a surge of electricity through her body. She couldn¡¯t deny the overwhelming jealousy that pierced through her.

    ¡°Nic, I¡¯m so tired, good night!¡± She yanked her hand free from Nichs¡¯s grip, stepped into the elevator, and pressed the button for her floor, leaving him alone.

    ¡°Oh, shit! What is wrong with me?¡± Reba muttered as she opened her hotel room door, which suddenly feltrger because she was alone. She took off her shoes and slipped out of her Arnault Saverio gown, curling up under the nket in only the satin pajamas she found in the closet.

    She felt frustrated with herself for losing focus after her encounter with Harvey. Even his words,

    ¡®Becky, where have you been? I¡¯ve missed you so much,¡® kept haunting her, causing her to feel strange sensations she didn¡¯t think she could feel after what Harvey and Alicia had done to her.

    That night, without removing her makeup, she fell asleep and had an erotic dream about Harvey that made her heart race when she woke up the next morning.

    ¡°Morning! How was your sleep?¡± greeted a member of the m team from Arnault Saverio named Dave, who was there to do her hair and outfit.

    +81

    Reba¡¯s checks flushed instantly because the question reminded her of her erotic dream about Harveyst night. She cleared her throat softly, ¡°Yeah, not bad.¡± Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

    ¡°You know there was quite amotion in the lobbyst night,¡± murmured Dave, ncing at Reba meaningfully.

    Reba frowned, ¡°Really? What happened?¡±

    Dave cleared his throat. ¡°I watched the news about you, I mean, you, Alicia Fox, and your ex¨Chusband-¡®

    ¡°So what?¡± Reba looked at Dave, raising one eyebrow.

    ¡°Well, they, I mean, Alicia and your ex¨Chusband had a big fightst night. Um, not a fight, more like Alicia had a meltdown and cried, she even threatened to hurt herself,¡± Dave said dramatically.

    Reba frowned, quickly searching for the news online but finding nothing<b>. </b>Daveughed, ¡°You really think the inte would cover it? Becky, everything that happens in this hotel area is confidential, so don¡¯t expect any juicy gossip aboutst night,¡± he said while taking out <i>the </i>dress Reba was going to wear from the suitcase.

    Reba was taken aback, agreeing with Dave. ¡°Do you know why Alicia Fox freaked outst night?¡± she asked cautiously, trying not to sound too curious even though she was sure Dave was on her side.

    Dave shook his head.

    ¡°I was a bit tipsyst night, so I couldn¡¯t hear everything clearly. But I do remember Harvey Specter saying, ¡®I won¡¯t forgive you if I find out she was right.¡±

    Well, I¡¯m not sure who ¡®she¡® is supposed to be, but it couldn¡¯t be you, right?¡±

    Reba shivered instantly.

 BIT 20

    Throughout themercial photo and video shoot that day, Reba kept thinking about the previous argument between Harvey and Alicia.

    ¡®Was Harvey talking about me or someone elsest night? What if he¡¯s starting to believe that Alicia has been manipting him all along?¡±

    ¡°Becky, your phone,¡± one of the magazine crews called out. Reba nced at her vibrating phone and was startled to see Harvey¡¯s name on it. She quickly grabbed her phone, her heart pounding, contemting whether to answer the call.

    ¡®No, just ignore him, Becky!¡® A voice in her head made her confidently press the red button to reject the call. But soon after, her phone vibrated again<b>, </b>signaling a new

    message. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    -Becky, I¡¯ll be at Urban Backyard Cafe in one hour. Come, we need to talk.

    Reba felt her whole body tense. She gripped her phone with cold¨Csweaty hands.

    ¡°Hey, are you okay?¡± Dave asked as he prepared to retouch Reba¡¯s makeup. ¡°Yeah, Reba nodded nervously. ¡°Great! We¡¯ll be done <b>in </b>thirty minutes. Are you heading straight back to the hotel or

    ¡°Um, I haven¡¯t decided yet,¡± Reba replied, unable to resist the urge to meet Harvey. She quickly finished the photo shoot and changed out of her Arnault Saverio dress into jeans and a white t¨Cshirt.

    She waved down a cab.

    ¡°Where do you want me to take you to?¡± the cab driver asked, ncing at Reba. through the rearview mirror.

    Reba cleared her throat. ¡°Urban Backyard Cafe,¡± she replied, her cheeks flushing inexplicably. She decided to follow her instincts, nning to leave before Harvey arrived if she suddenly changed her mind.

    ¡°Keep the change, thanks, have a good day!¡± said Reba to the driver as she hopped out of the cab. She stood in front of the cafe, hesitating. Her eyes scanned the surroundings, but Harvey was nowhere to be seen.

    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s still on his way,¡± She muttered.

    Hesitantly, she stepped into the cafe and was greeted by a smiling waitress.

    ¡°Miss Harper?¡±

    Reba frowned, ¡°Me? Yeah, I am Reba Harper,¡± she replied, a bit confused.

    ¡°Of course you are! Right this way, Ma¡¯am. M. Specter has already reserved a table for you both,¡± the waitress said, quickly walking ahead of Reba, and leading her to at table with the best view.

    ¡°Thanks, um, I¡¯d <i>like </i>to o

    ¡°Mr. Specter has already ordered you a Matcha Latte and a Special New York Cheesecake. Would you like to change it to something else?¡±

    Reba stared in surprise, ¡°Oh? Really? Alright, Matcha Latte and Cheesecake it is,¡± she said, blushing. She felt touched that Harvey remembered her favorite drink and dessert.

    After the waitress left, Reba sat up straight and got tense immediately.

    ¡°You still have a chance to run! Don¡¯t even think about going back to a man who dumped you!¡® a voice in her head babbled, making her even more uncertain about meeting Harvey.

    ¡®You lost your baby, and that man didn¡¯t even believe you! Get hotel now!¡®

    and up

    <b>go </b>

    back to the

    She held her head, gently tapping it. After some deliberation, she stood up, deciding to leave before Harvey arrived. However, as she rose, she suddenly bumped into someone Looking up, she found Harvey standing in front of her. His ideal body was wrapped in an elegant ck suit, his eyes hidden behind matching sunsses.

    ¡°You¡¯re here,¡± Harvey murmured, removing his sunsses and gazing deeply at her.

    Reba cleared her throat nervously and sank back into her chair, her face tense. She wanted to speak, but her face felt stiff. She only stared out the window in silence, avoiding Harvey¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Thanks foring,¡± Harvey said suddenly, pulling out the chair before Reba and sitting down calmly.

    ¡°How are you doing?¡± Harvey asked, staring intently at her, hoping she would look back

    Chapter

    at him. Reba snorted. Can we ship the small talk and get straight to <b>the </b>point?¡± she snapped

    Harvey sighed dumply, unbuttoning his sun and leaning towards Reba, making her hold her breath as they were only five inches apart.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Reba hissed, anmeyer.

    Are you dating Nichs Harvey asked, leating in further until <b>their </b>noses touched.

    Rebenna swallowed hard her body araving Harvey¡¯s touch just like before, and she struggled to control her desire.

    ¡°That¡¯s none of your busness!¡± She retorted curtly

    Harvey pulled back, sighing deepix.

    ¡°Okay, so you really want me to get straight to the poin?¡±

    Reben didn¡¯t respond. <b>She </b>clenched her fists and had them under the table.

    Harvey took a deep breath, his sharp eyes or leaving Reba¡¯s ¡°Becky. I¡¯m here to tell you something important Something that we realized only recently.¡±

    Rebenna¡¯s heart raced. She clenched her fras tighter, her knuckles turning white. ¡°What is it? Just say it.¡±

    Harvey cleared his throat. ¡°I know you might have hoped for the pregnancy then, but this is the truth. You never get pregnant, I¡¯ve checked in and the hospital was very sure

    about in

    ¡°WHAT?¡± snapped Rebeca, half¨Cshiking.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to carry the sadness and suffering over something that never actually happened. I know how devastated you were over the pregnancy that never existed. I¡¯m telling you this because¡ª¡°

    ¡°STOP! Don¡¯t talk about something you dont understand! You don¡¯t have any idea about my pregnancy Reba snapped, her chest heaving with anger.

    ¡°I saw <b>that </b>positur pregnancy test with my own eyes! The red line was so clear, and I was sure I was pregnant! If you¡¯re too much of a coward to admit it, them do whatever you want. I dont care Beba hissed as she stood up from her chair, ready to leave

    11:32 Wed, Aug 14 ti u

    <b>+</b>81%

    at him. Reba snorted, ¡°Can we skip the small talk and get straight to the point?¡± she snapped.

    Harvey sighed deeply, unbuttoning his suit and leaning towards Reba, making her hold her breath as they were only five inches apart.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Reba hissed, annoyed.

    ¡°Are you dating Nichs?¡± Harvey asked, leaning in further until their noses touched.

    Reba swallowed hard, her body craving Harvey¡¯s touch just like before, and she struggled to control her desire.

    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business!¡± She retorted curtly.

    Harvey pulled back, sighing deeply.

    ¡°Okay, so you really want me to get straight to the point?¡±

    Reba didn¡¯t respond. She clenched her fists and hid them under the table.

    Harvey took a deep breath, his sharp eyes not leaving Reba¡¯s. ¡°Becky, I¡¯m here to tell you something important. Something that I¡¯ve realized only recently.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart raced. She clenched her fists tighter, her knuckles turning white. ¡°What, is it? Just say it.¡±

    Harvey cleared his throat, ¡°I know you might have hoped for the pregnancy then, but this is the truth. You never get pregnant, I¡¯ve checked it and the hospital was very sure about it.¡±

    ¡°WHAT?¡± snapped Reba, half¨Cshaking.

    ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to carry the sadness and suffering over something that never actually happened. I know how devastated you were over the pregnancy that never existed. I¡¯m telling you this because-¡±

    ¡°STOP! Don¡¯t talk about something you don¡¯t understand! You don¡¯t have any idea about my pregnancy!¡± Reba snapped, her chest heaving with anger.

    ¡°I saw that positive pregnancy test with my own eyes! The red line was so clear, and I was sure I was pregnant! If you¡¯re too much <i>of </i>a coward to admit it, then do whatever you want, I don¡¯t care!¡± Reba hissed as she stood up from her chair, ready to leave

    but Harvey grabbed her hand.

    ¡°I just want you to be free from that burden. You¡¯ll only waste your time holding at grudge over something that never happened, Harvey replied firmly.

    +81<b>%</b>1

    Reba mmed the table. ¡°Listen carefully! I will prove it to you! I will show you how disgusting the woman you love truly is!¡±

    ¡°The woman I love? Becky, I don¡¯t-¡±

    Before Harvey could finish his words, a familiar voice interrupted them.

    ¡°Such a lovely reunion¡­¡±

 BIT 21

    @+81%

    Alicia stood between Reba and Harvey, an infuriating smile on her face, her arms crossed over her chest. Reba yanked her hand away from Harvey¡¯s grasp, grabbed her bag, and prepared to leave. Suddenly, Harvey grabbed her hand again, stopping

    her.

    ¡°We¡¯re not done yet,¡± Harvey said in his distinctive, charismatic voice.

    Alicia red, pulling Harvey¡¯s hand away from Reba. ¡°Have you lost your mind? In case you forgot, this woman right here is the one who cunningly used me of causing her ident! Wake up, Harvey! She just wanted to use you. Don¡¯t be fooled!¡± she ranted furiously.

    Alicia¡¯s words didn¡¯t provoke Reba at all. She snorted disdainfully and looked up sharply at her ex¨Chusband. ¡°Shame on you!¡± she hissed in his face then quickly walked out of the cafe without ncing at Alicia.

    ¡°Becky, wait!¡± Harvey shouted.

    ¡°Harvey, for God¡¯s sake, you know what will happen if you leave me?¡± Alicia threatened,

    Reba shivered instantly, slowing her steps and looking back at Alicia holding Harvey¡¯s hand. ¡®What does that devil woman really want from Harvey?¡±

    As Reba stood by the roadside waiting for a cab, a motorcycle sped by and nearly hit her, but someone quickly pulled her to safety, She looked up in shock to find Nichs gazing at her with concern.

    ¡°Nic?¡± Reba whispered, astonished.

    Nichs sighed in relief. ¡°Thank God you¡¯re okay.¡± He released Reba from his embrace and straightened her slightly disheveled hair.

    Reba frowned, certain Nichs¡¯s presence wasn¡¯t a coincidence. ¡°Why a suddenly here?¡± she asked, not bothering to hide her suspicion. First Alicia, now Nichs Reba was sure they had a connection.

    yo

    you

    Nichs gave a small smile. ¡°I asked one of the Arnault Saverio crew, and they said you came here,¡± he replied casually.

    ¡°Really? I don¡¯t recall telling anyone,¡± Reba murmured, uncertain. Nichs smiled.

    11:32 Wed, Aug 14 ti 7

    ¡°You told Dave. Do you want me to call him?¡±

    +81%

    ¡°No, sorry. So why did you follow me here?¡± Reba asked, ncing into the cafe to see Harvey and Alicia, but arge potted nt blocked her view.

    Nichs sighed. ¡°I need you toe with me to the hospital.¡±

    ¡°What? Why are you going to the hospital?¡± <b>Reba </b>asked, frowning in confusion.

    ¡°Can we talk in my car?¡± Nichs pointed to a car parked not far from where they were talking. Reba clenched her cold fingers, wondering why staying away from Nichs was so hard for her.

    ¡°I think I may have cancer,¡± Nichs said abruptly.

    Reba stared in shock. ¡°What? You¡¯re joking, right? There¡¯s no way you have cancer. You¡¯re the healthiest person I know,¡± she replied incredulously.

    Nichs gave a thin smile. ¡°I¡¯m just as skeptical as you, but the hospitalb results will prove it,¡± he muttered bitterly. Reba looked deeply at Nichs, wanting to make sure he was serious, but she found no hint of deception.

    ¡°Okay then,¡± Reba said. No matter how annoyed she was with Nichs, she couldn¡¯t ignore him when he needed her. She suddenly heard a loud snort as they were about to get into the car. She turned to see Alicia ring at her while holding Harvey¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Look at her! She doesn¡¯t look miserable or heartbroken. She¡¯s even enjoying life with her high school boyfriend. So save your empathy for someone who needs it most, and that person is me!¡± Alicia shouted at Harvey, loud enough for Reba and Nichs to hear.

    Reba paused, feeling the urge to pick up a rock and throw it at Alicia, but Nichs shook his head and said, ¡°Engaging with crazy people will only make you look just as crazy.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Reba said, stepping into the car elegantly. From the rearview mirror, she could see Alicia still trying to make Harvey smile, but failing as Harvey¡¯s eyes. remained focused on Nichs¡¯s car, as if he wanted to jump out and force Reba toe back.

    Nichs¡¯s car weaved through the heavy New York City traffic. Reba leaned back in her seat, ncing at Nichs and studying his face intently. ¡°So what made you think you have cancer?¡± she asked, curious because Nichs <i>didn¡¯t </i>seem sick at all. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    1-32 Wed, Aug 14

    Nichs sighed deeply. ¡°I never told you this but I often have severe headaches that sometimes make me vomit. So, a while ago, I had it checked, and the doctor said abnormal cells were growing in my head. Today, I want to confirm what those cells <b>are</b><b>.</b><b>¡± </b>

    Suddenly, Reba was overwhelmed with guilt. She knew she shouldn¡¯t have doubted Nichs. She had known him since high school; how could she think there was a connection between Nichs and Alicia?

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry-¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine! I¡¯ve prepared myself for the worst,¡± Nichs replied calmly, his reaction making Reba feel even more guilty.

    A few minutester, they arrived at the hospital. Despite feeling exhausted from a day of shooting and photo sessions, Reba apanied Nichs inside..

    ¡°That¡¯s my doctor,¡± Nichs said, pointing to an office named Chloe Donovan on its door. Reba nodded slowly. ¡°Should I go in with you?¡±

    Nichs shook his head. ¡°No<i>, </i>just wait here, okay? I¡¯d feel morefortable seeing the doctor alone,¡± he said, standing up and gently ruffling Reba¡¯s hair..

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    Reba nodded slowly, wondering why Nichs asked her toe if he didn¡¯t want her with him when he saw the doctor. She watched Nichs¡¯s back as he walked away, briefly considering that he might be lying. However, seeing the hospital¡¯s credibility made her dismiss the thought; that such a hospital couldn¡¯t employ an unqualified doctor.

    About thirty minutester, Nichs emerged from the doctor¡¯s office, holding arge envelope that looked like MRI results. Reba stood up, looking at Nichs impatiently.

    ¡°How was it?¡± she asked, taking the envelope from his hand.

    Nichs slumped into a chair next to Reba and sighed deeply. He stared at the floor, nervously clenching his fingers. ¡°Stage three gliostoma,¡± he said, his voice choked with emotion.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°What? Are you sure about this?¡±

    Nichs nodded stiffly. He bent over, covering his face with his hands. ¡°I¡¯ve never been

    this scared in my life¡­¡±

    <b>+81 </b>

    <b>81</b><b>% </b>

    ¡°Oh Nic, I¡¯m sorry. We¡¯ll get through this together, okay?¡± Reba said, gently rubbing Nichs¡¯s back.

    Suddenly, Nichs straightened up, looking at Reba with hope. ¡°Marry me!¡±

 BIT 22

    Chapter <b>22 </b>

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened as she nervously swallowed. ¡°What? You¡¯re just joking, right?¡± she replied, halfughing, but Nichs didn¡¯t smile at all. ¡°Oh,e on, this isn¡¯t the right time for jokes. Shouldn¡¯t we be discussing the best treatment for you?¡± Reba tried to change the subject.

    Nichs turned his gloomy face away, staring down the empty hospital corridor. ¡°Becky, I¡¯m at stage three gliostoma. I doubt there¡¯s much chance of me living much longer.

    ¡°Nic! Stop, okay? There¡¯s always a chance to recoverpletely! I know many cancer survivors; you just need to believe and trust that your efforts will yield good results,¡± Reba insisted, squatting in front of Nichs and holding both his hands.

    Nichs sighed deeply. ¡°I can¡¯t face all this alone-¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not alone! Hey, I¡¯m here! We¡¯ll get through this together, okay?¡± Reba nodded, assuring Nichs that she meant every word.

    Nichs¡® eyes lit up. ¡°Then let¡¯s get married! At least once, I want to feel what it¡¯s like to be loved by someone I love. My life may notst much longer, and I don¡¯t want <b>to </b>die with regrets¡­¡±

    Reba was taken aback. She opened her mouth, then closed it again, at a loss for words. ¡°Nic, we¡¯ll talk about thister, okay? I¡¯m going to meet with your doctor to discuss the treatment you¡¯ll undergo,¡± she said, standing up.

    ¡°Don¡¯t! I mean, I already discussed it earlier with her.¡± Nichs grabbed Reba¡¯s hand, stopping her.

    Reba frowned.

    ¡°y and?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll undergo periodic chemotherapy at home. There will be a nurse and doctor visits to assist me,¡± Nichs answered, nodding his head.

    ¡°Okay then, <i>I </i>promise <i>I¡¯ll </i>be there whenever you need me. And shouldn¡¯t we hire a caregiver, you know? Just in case-¡±

    fine! You know what? If you don¡¯t want to be with me, you don¡¯t need to ¡°No! I¡¯ll be make me look like a dying patient by hiring a caregiver to take care of me! You¡¯d better go back to the hotel. I¡¯ll drive you!¡± Nichs stood up, his face reddening with anger.

    11:32 Wed<b>, </b>Aug 14 ti

    ÈÕ³£+81%d

    Reba ran her fingers through her long hair, confused. She sighed deeply and matched Nichs¡® pace. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to offend you, it¡¯s just-¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just you don¡¯t want the hassle of being with me through this crisis. Well, that makes sense! You¡¯re a rising star right now, and I¡¯d only hinder your career,¡± Nichs ranted, walking quickly.

    ¡°Nic,e on! I never thought that way! I will stand by you through all of this, I promise! But marriage isn¡¯t a solution,¡± Reba said desperately, facing a difficult choice. She had just felt relieved to be free from her unhappy rtionship with Nichs and was afraid of falling into the same trap again.

    Nichs stopped in his tracks. ¡°At least stay with me. I¡¯ll really need your presence,¡± he pleaded with a sad face that touched Reba. They stared at each other in silence for a few moments until Reba finally responded, ¡°At least give me some time to think, this is all very shocking for me too.¡±

    ¡°I know, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Nichs released her hand and continued walking with a sullen

    face.

    ¡°Let me drive.¡± Reba snatched the car keys from Nichs and jumped into the driver¡¯s seat. Nichs didn¡¯t protest and remained silent throughout the ride back to his apartment.

    Minutester.

    ¡°Give me your phone,¡± Reba snapped after parking Nichs¡® car in his apartment¡¯s garage. Nichs frowned in surprise, but before he could say anything, she had already grabbed it.

    ¡°You just need <i>to </i>press number one if you need me, okay? And number two if you need 911, Reba instructed while quickly setting up speed dial on Nichs¡® phone.

    Nichs looked at her in surprise and then nodded twice.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m heading back to the hotel now. I have a lot of work to do tomorrow and remember, I¡¯m just one call away! Okay<i>? </i>I¡¯ll order healthy food for your dinner, so you don¡¯t need to cook. Good night, Nic!¡± Reba waved her <i>hand </i>and jumped out of Nichs¡® car, walking casually out of the parking area.

    From inside the car, Nichs stared at the woman he admired without blinking. His feelings for Reba were more than just ordinary love; there was a strong <b>desire </b>to

    possess her that he could never shake off.

    +81% N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    By the roadside, in front of Nichs¡® apartment building, Reba stood waiting for an empty cab to pass by. After several minutes without getting a ride, she walked along the still¨Cbusy sidewalk. She nced at her watch; it was 8:00 p.m.

    ¡°Shit, I¡¯m starving,¡± she whispered, rubbing her t stomach. After passing two blocks, she saw an Italian restaurant she used to visit with Harvey when they were together. She clearly remembered how Harvey was crazy about the Ravioli Al Pesto they served. She shook her head, trying to push Harvey out of her mind.

    ¡°Buona Sera! Dine in or take out?¡± asked a host who greeted her at the entrance. ¡°Dine in and delivery¨Corder,¡± replied Reba, she intended to order delivery for Nichs.

    ¡°Okay, this way, Ma¡¯am!¡± The host in white and red attire led her to a small table for two in the corner near the window. After ordering her favorite food, Reba sat at her table, staring nkly at a sunflower in a water¨Cfilled vase in front of her.

    ¡®What¡¯s wrong with my life? Why does Nichs have to get sick just when I¡¯m about to break free from him? I have every right to ignore him, but he¡¯s helped me so much, and shouldn¡¯t I do the same?¡±

    While she was busy debating with herself, a waitress approached her.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, would you mind sharing your table with another customer? All tables are full,

    So we-

    ¦°

    Reba nodded, ¡°Yeah, no problem. I¡¯ll just eat and then leave anyway,¡± she replied, shrugging indifferently.

    ¡°Great! Thank you!¡± the waitress eximed before walking away. While waiting for her order, she took a piece of warm wee bread and dipped it into the balsamic sauce on the table.

    ¡°Yummy, it tastes the same,¡± she muttered, slightly cheered up by the warm focia bread melting in her mouth.

    As she reached for her second piece of bread, she saw the waitress who had spoken to her earlier approaching with someone behind her. The closer they got, the faster her heart pounded. She put her focia back in the basket, her back suddenly tensing.

    ¡°Harvey? Are you stalking me?¡±

    11:32 Wed, Aug 14 ti W

    Harvey looked just as surprised as she was. ¡°Becky? Why are you here?¡±

    ¡°Sorry, you guys know each other?¡± the waitress interjected.

 23

    ¡°What do you mean why am I here? Of course, I¡¯m here to get my dinner,¡± Reba r¨¦torted defensively.

    ¡°So your handsome boyfriend doesn¡¯t feed you after spending the whole day with you?¡± Harvey sneered.

    ¡°Shut your mouth if you don¡¯t know anything!¡± Reba snapped angrily.

    Suddenly, the waitress cleared her throat loudly, interrupting their argument. ¡°If you two don¡¯t want to share a table, I can-¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine!¡± Reba and Harvey replied simultaneously.

    ¡°Okay, perfect!¡± the waitress said, turning around and leaving Reba and Harvey still staring at each other withplex emotions. Fortunately, Reba¡¯s food arrived shortly after. ¡°We¡¯ve already processed your delivery order for Mr. Nichs Bet; here is the bill,¡± the waitress said, cing the receipt on the table.

    Hearing Nichs Bet¡¯s name, Harvey straightened up and red at Reba. ¡°You act as if you¡¯re devastated, but you¡¯re actually enjoying your post¨Cdivorce life, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Reba stuffed arge forkful of spaghetti into her mouth, trying hard not to rise to Harvey¡¯s taunts. She knew that no matter how hard she tried to exin, Harvey would never believe her without solid proof.

    ¡°At least find someone who truly loves you. You might not know, but Nichs Bet is just using <i>you</i>! Why do you think he suddenly reappeared in your life and acted nice? Where was he all this time?¡± Harvey ranted, bing increasingly irritated as Reba ignored him.

    Reba mmed her fork and spoon onto the table, her eyes zing as she red at Harvey. ¡°<i>Why </i>do <i>you </i>care if Nichs Bet is using me? Your girlfriend<i>, </i>that wicked Foxy, is doing far worse, yet you defend her as if she¡¯s innocent!¡± she shouted, drawing the attention of several onlookers.

    Harvey fell silent and took a deep breath.

    ¡°Just because she reappeared in my life after my grandfather forced her to leave doesn¡¯t

    mean-

    @ +81%

    ¡°No one ever forced her to leave. Your grandfather gave her a choice, and that wicked Foxy chose money! She¡¯s back because she ran out of it and needs to dig into you again. Admit it, Harvey, you¡¯re weak and naive, which is why that wild Alicia Fox is with you now,¡± Reba hissed with hatred. Whenever she mentioned Alicia Fox¡¯s name, she felt her blood boiling.

    ¡°I am not weak!¡± Harvey mmed the table, making the restaurant fall silent.

    Reba scoffed, ¡°Yeah, maybe you¡¯re not weak, but you¡¯re stupid and naive. That¡¯s why your gold¨Cdigging girlfriend can control you! Shame on you, Harvey! If it weren¡¯t for your blindness, our baby might still be alive!¡± she cried with a trembling voice. She stood up, put money on the table, and walked away, leaving Harvey staring in disbelief.

    Reba hurried out of the restaurant and walked down the deserted sidewalk. Her chest felt full of anger, ready to explode at any moment. She needed to find Dr. Theo, who had treated her before, and interrogate him.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you stop running away every time we¡¯re talking?¡± Suddenly, Harvey stood in front of her, blocking her path, panting from running after her.

    Reba stopped, startled. She looked at Harvey, confused. ¡°What do you actually want from me? Can¡¯t you just be my enemy? We don¡¯t need to discuss anything, and it would be easier for me. You¡¯re happy now that you finally divorced me, right? So celebrate your victory and stop bothering me!¡± she barked angrily.

    Harvey stood still, opening his mouth and then closing it again, lost for words.

    <i>¡°</i><i>I </i>just ¡±

    ¡°Whatever happened between us <i>is </i>over. Even if I¡¯m still trying to prove that Aliciamitted a crime against me, I¡¯m doing it for the sake of the baby that was once inside me, not for you. So move away and let¡¯s deal with our lives separately,¡± Reba. said firmly.

    She brushed past Harvey, feeling like her ns were falling apart. She needed to rearrange everything <i>to </i>ensure things went as she wanted.

    ¡°Wait!¡± Suddenly, Harvey grabbed her arm, nearly causing her to fall, but he caught her and held her in his embrace.

    Reba knew she should push Harvey away and run, but her body rejected the idea. Her body craved that embrace more than anything. She felt a peace she had never <i>felt </i>

    11:33 Wed, Aug 14 ti W

    +81%

    before, and oddly, that feeling made her sad, bringing tears streaming down <b>her </b>face.

    People walked past them as the seconds ticked by, but they continued to hold each other, silently expressing the longing they were too proud to voice.

    Reba was jolted back to reality by her phone vibrating in her handbag. She pulled away from Harvey, clearing her throat awkwardly.

    ¡°Let¡¯s end it here and never meet again,¡± she said, her tone softening. She took a deep breath and turned away. ¡°I can¡¯t,¡± Harvey blurted out before Reba could leave.

    Reba stared at him in shock, she wanted to turn around and ask for an exnation, but a voice in her head told her not to do something so foolish. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    She clenched her fists and walked away again, her steps slower as her energy was drained.

    ¡°You still have feelings for me, don¡¯t you?¡± Harvey said, walking beside Reba, matching her pace.

    Reba remained silent while pressing her lips tightly, ignoring him.

    ¡°Spend this night with me and decide whether you will hate me forever or-

    ¡°<i>Or </i>what?¡± Reba challenged. ¡°Is there anything left of our rtionship? For three years, I lived without being loved, and in the end, I was trampled on and discarded. What makes you think I still love you the same way? Do you think I¡¯m stupid or what?¡±

    Harvey clenched his jaw, looking uncertain as <i>if </i>unsure of what he was doing. He was just following his instincts. All he knew was that his body had been used to

    relureba¡¯s

    presence for three years. He missed her, missed her deeply but was to admit

    <ol>

    <li>it. </li>

    </ol>

    ¡°I can¡¯t keep doing this. If you don¡¯t leave, I¡¯ll call <i>911 </i>and report that I¡¯m being stalked,¡± Reba said, pulling out her phone from her handbag.

    Harvey stepped closer, and in one swift move he cupped Reba¡¯s face andnded a soft kiss on her lips.

 BIT 24

    Reba was too stunned to react immediately. The warmth of Harvey¡¯s lips against hers stirred a torrent of emotions she had buried deep within. For a moment, she forgot about the pain, the betrayal, and the anger. She closed her eyes and let herself get lost in the kiss.

    But reality soon crept back in. She pulled away, her eyes brimming with tears. ¡°This doesn¡¯t change anything, Harvey,¡± she whispered, her voice trembling. ¡°You can¡¯t just kiss away all the hurt and expect everything to be okay.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s face softened with regret and longing. ¡°I know,¡± he said quietly. ¡°I know I can¡¯t undo the past, but I still care about you, Becky. I can¡¯t just let walk

    trying to make things right.¡±

    <b>you </b>

    away without

    Reba shook her head, her tears falling freely now. ¡°It¡¯s toote. Too much has happened. I¡¯ve lost too much.¡± She took a step back, her resolve hardening. ¡°We need to move on with our lives. Separately.¡±

    Harvey watched her, his eyes pleading for understanding. ¡°Please, just one night. Let¡¯s talk¨Creally talk. If you still want to walk away after that, I won¡¯t stop you.¡±

    Reba hesitated. Part of her wanted to leave and never look back, but another part, a smaller, quieter part, wanted to believe that maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for closure. Or even a new beginning.

    She took a deep breath, wiping away her tears. ¡°One night,¡± she said, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°But no promises, Harvey.¡± She couldn¡¯t believe she just said that.

    Harvey nodded, relief washing over his face. Thank you,¡± he said softly. ¡°We¡¯ll go somewhere quiet, away from all this.¡±

    Reba followed Harvey to his car, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she was making a mistake, but she also couldn¡¯t deny the part of her that still cared about him. As they drove through the city streets, she- stared out the window, trying to make sense of her feelings.

    They arrived at a small, cozy bar one hour away from New York City. It was quiet, almost empty, with soft music ying in the background. Harvey led her to a corner table, away from prying eyes. They sat down, an awkward silence hanging between them.

    <b>1/3 </b>

    11:33 Wed, Aug 14.

    +81%

    After shots of Vodka, Harvey finally broke the silence. ¡°Becky, I¡¯m sorry for everything. I know I¡¯ve hurt you, and I regret it more than you can imagine. I was a fool, and I let my pride and stupidity ruin what we had.¡±

    Reba looked at him, searching his eyes for any sign of deceit. ¡°Why now? Why are you saying all this now?<b>¡± </b>

    Harvey sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°Because I¡¯ve realized what I¡¯ve lost. Losing you was the biggest mistake of my life and I¡¯ve been too stubborn to admit it until now.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart ached at his words, but she forced herself to stay strong. ¡°Words are easy. Actions are what matter.¡±

    Harvey nodded, reaching across the table to take her hand. ¡°I know, and I want to prove to you that I¡¯ve changed. I want to try it again, Becky. Give me a chance to show you that I can be the man you deserve.¡±

    Reba looked down at their joined hands, her mind racing. Could she really trust him. again? Could she open her heart to him after everything they¡¯d been through? Could she believe someone who could never love her after three years of marriage?

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can,¡± she said honestly. ¡°Too much has happened, and I¡¯m scared of getting hurt again.¡±

    Harvey squeezed her hand gently. ¡°I understand, and I don¡¯t expect you to forgive me overnight. But please, let¡¯s start with tonight. Let¡¯s talk and see where it leads. No pressure, no expectations.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, her heart wavering. She had been so sure she was done with Harvey, but now, sitting across from him, she couldn¡¯t deny the glimmer of hope that flickered in her chest. Her mind told her to reject him but her body betrayed her. She nodded her head faintly and whispered, ¡°Okay.¡±

    She didn¡¯t know what the future held, but she felt a small seed of possibility take root in her heart. Maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for them after all. For her to heal, for her to forgive.

    They walked back to the car in silence. Harvey drove to a nearby hotel, and Reba followed him inside, her mind <i>a </i>whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. They checked in and made their way to <i>the </i>room, the tension between them was palpable. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    11:33 Wed, Aug 14 ti W

    +81%

    Once inside, the atmosphere shifted. Harvey closed the door, and they stood facing each other, the weight of their shared past pressing down on them. Slowly, tentatively, they moved closer. Harvey reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from Reba¡¯s they moved closer. Harvey reached out, <b>face</b>. She looked up at him, her eyes searching his for any sign of hesitation. There were none. Something that she never saw in him when they were still together.

    They came together in a rush of passion. They kissed deeply, their hands exploring each other as if they were doing it for the first time. Clothes were shed, and barriers were broken. Reba suddenly felt like she was alive again, and above all, she could finally feel that Harvey wanted her.

    As theyy intertwined on the bed, the world outside ceased to exist. They were lost in the moment, their bodiesmunicating what words could not. It was as if time stood still, allowing them a brief respite from the chaos of their lives.

    But just as they began to drift into a peaceful slumber, Harvey¡¯s phone buzzed loudly on the nightstand. He ignored it at first, unwilling to break the spell, but it buzzed again, more insistently. With a groan, he reached over and grabbed it, squinting at the screen.

    ¡°It¡¯s my assistant,¡± he said, his voice heavy with reluctance. He answered the call, and Reba watched as his expression changed from annoyance to shock.

    ¡°What happened?¡± he asked, sitting up. ¡°Is she okay?¡±

    Reba felt a knot form in her stomach. She knew something was terribly wrong.

    Harvey listened intently, his face growing paler by the second. ¡°I¡¯ll be there as soon as I can,¡± he said finally, ending the call and turning to Reba.

    ¡°Alicia¡¯s been in an ident,¡± he said, his voice strained. ¡°I need to go.¡±

    Reba felt a tightness in her chest; she knew everything was always about Alicia. She

    knew she should have let him go, but her body was telling her to do otherwise. She

    reached out her hand and gripped Harvey¡¯s wrist tightly. ¡°Stay¡­¡±

    *****

 BIT 25

    Chapter <b>25 </b>

    Harvey hesitated, torn between his concern for Alicia and the unexpected connection he had rekindled with Reba. His eyes darted between Reba¡¯s pleading gaze and the phone, his mind racing. Reba¡¯s grip tightened, her eyes silently begging him to

    stay.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Becky, I have to go,¡± he said softly, his voiceced with guilt. ¡°Alicia could be seriously hurt.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart sank. She knew deep down that Harvey would always be there for Alicia, no matter what. But a part of her couldn¡¯t let go¨Cnot now<b>, </b>not when she had just begun to feel something again.

    ¡°Harvey, please,¡± she whispered, her voice cracking. ¡°Just a little longer.¡±

    Harvey swallowed hard, overwhelmed by his indecision. Suddenly, his phone vibrated with an iing call from his assistant. ¡°Yes, John?¡±

    Harvey¡¯s face immediately tensed. He released Reba¡¯s grip on his wrist. ¡°Alicia needs me, I really have to go.¡±

    Reba felt a deep ache in her joints. Even though she had known it would end this way, she couldn¡¯t avoid the disappointment in her heart. She stared nkly as Harvey¡¯s back receded and disappeared through the hotel door, her tears beginning to fall one by one.

    As she was getting dressed, her phone suddenly rang. She frowned at the unfamiliar number on the screen. Hesitantly, she pressed the green button and held the phone to her ear with curiosity.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get the wrong idea, Harvey was just caught up in the moment, haha! He will alwayse back to me; he loves me more deeply than you think. Enjoy your loneliness, bitch! Want me to send you some sex toys? Hahaha!¡± The call ended. It <i>was </i>Alicia¡¯s voice, and Reba was absolutely sure of it.

    Reba gripped her phone tightly. ¡°Damn it, Alicia!¡± she cursed angrily. She was tempted to tell Harvey about Alicia¡¯s lies, but she had no proof since Alicia had called from a disposable number.

    Her disappointment turned into anger. This <i>was </i>no longer about Harvey, but about <i>her </i>unresolved grudge against Alicia. She quickly ordered an online taxi to return to

    Manhattan, an hour away.

    wanted to do?

    +81%

    In the car, she was busy thinking about the quickest way to expose Alicia¡¯s misdeeds. She couldn¡¯t waste any more time and let that crazy woman go any further. Initially, she this only because of her loss of the unborn child, but now she also wanted. to do it for Harvey. She didn¡¯t care if Harvey ended up with another woman who loved him, as long as it wasn¡¯t Alicia.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am? We¡¯ve arrived at the hotel,¡± the Uber driver said, waking Reba from her nap in the passenger seat. Reba opened her eyes slowly, her head feeling heavy. After tipping the driver, she stepped out of the car and dragged her feet towards the hotel lobby. She nced at her watch; it was one in the morning.

    As she was passing the reception desk, suddenly, ¡°Ms. Harper, Ma¡¯am?¡±

    Reba turned, surprised. ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a package for you,¡± the receptionist said, quickly approaching Reba and extending a brown envelope. Reba frowned. ¡°For me? From whom?¡±

    The receptionist shook her head uncertainly. ¡°You can refuse the package if you want, she said, trying to stay awake. Reba stared at the envelope for a few seconds, debating whether to ept it, but eventually, she took it. ¡°Thanks.¡±

    Once in her room, she hurriedly opened the brown envelope and was shocked to find a photograph inside. She squinted <i>at </i>the unclear picture.

    ¡°Shit! Alicia and who?¡± she muttered, struggling to identify the man sitting across from her. After scrutinizing the man closely, a realization hit her. <b>She </b>covered her mouth in shock. ¡°Doctor Theo?¡±

    She was stunned, wondering who had sent her the envelope, and found <i>no </i>clues until she finally fell asleep at 3:00 AM.

    The next morning, Reba woke up in a foul mood because she had dreamed about

    The slick marble staircase, the <i>blood </i>the incident when she lost her unborn child. running down her thigh, the intense pain in her abdomen¨C<i>it </i>all felt so real in her dream.

    If it weren¡¯t for a photoshoot with a magazine that <i>day</i>, she would have curled up in her hotel room all <i>day</i>. However, her desire to be famous and influential was powerful because she wanted everyone <i>to </i>listen when she had all the evidence to bring Alicia

    down.

    She dragged herself out of bed. The photo shoot was set to start at 9:00 AM, and she had barely enough time to prepare. She sshed cold water on her <b>face</b><b>, </b>hoping it would wash away the remnants of her nightmare.

    By 8:30, she was in an Uber heading to the studio. The city was already bustling, but she felt disconnected as if she were moving through a haze. Her phone buzzed in her bag, startling her out of her reverie. It was a message from Arnault Savorie¡¯s staff, Julia. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡®Becky, we need you at your best today. You know, this shoot is crucial for your career, right?¡±

    Reba sighed and typed a quick reply, ¡®I¡¯ll be there, don¡¯t worry.¡±

    The studio was a hive of activity when she arrived. Assistants hurried about, adjusting lights and setting up props. Julia spotted Reba and rushed over; her expression was a mix of relief and concern.

    ¡°Becky, you look¡­ tired. Are you okay?¡± Julia asked, her voiceced with genuine worry. She hid the fact that she saw Reba return to the hotel with a sad face earlier this

    morning.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just had a rough night,¡± Reba replied, forcing a smile. ¡°Let¡¯s get this over with.¡±

    Julia nodded, though her eyes lingered on Reba for a moment longer. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get you to makeup.¡±

    As Reba sat in the makeup chair, she closed her eyes, trying to push <i>away </i>the thoughts of Harvey and Alicia. But it was no use; they kept creeping back. She needed to focus and channel her emotions into the shoot.

    ¡°Reba, we¡¯re ready for you,¡± called the photographer.

    Reba took a deep breath and walked onto the set. The lights were blinding, but she weed the distraction. For the next few hours, she threw herself into the shoot, posing and smiling as directed. But underneath it all, a storm was brewing.

    During a break, Reba checked her phone and saw eight missed calls from Nichs. She frowned in confusion and then decided to call back.

    ¡°Hello?¡± A woman¡¯s voice.

    11:33 Wed, Aug 14 <b>t </b>

    <b>¡°</b>Excuse me? Who are you?¡± Reba asked, straightening herself warily.

    ¡°I¡¯m Emma, a nurse in the emergency unit at Santa Theresa Hospital, are you looking for Nichs Bet?¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened suddenly. ¡°Yeah, where is he?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s unconscious now, if you don¡¯t mind, could you give us the contact information of

    his family or close rtives?¡±

    Reba felt her body go limp.

 BIT 26

    She gripped the phone tightly, her knuckles turning white. ¡°What happened to him?¡± she managed to ask, her voice trembling.

    ¡°I¡¯m not at liberty to discuss details over the phone, but we must get in touch with his next of kin,¡± Emma replied, her tone calm but firm.

    Reba¡¯s mind raced. She didn¡¯t have contact information for his rtives, but she knew she had to go to the hospital immediately.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there as soon as I can,¡± she said and hung up.

    She turned to Julia, who had been watching her with concern.. ¡°I have to leave, it¡¯s an emergency.¡±

    Julia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Is everything okay?¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I need to go.¡±

    ¡°Alright, take care. We¡¯ll manage here,¡± Julia said, her voice full of empathy.

    Reba rushed out of the studio, her heart pounding. She hailed the nearest taxi and directed the driver to Santa Theresa Hospital. The ride felt interminable, each minute stretching out as her anxiety mounted.

    When she arrived at the hospital, she hurried inside, her eyes scanning for any signs of Nichs. She approached the reception desk breathless. ¡°Nichs Bet, emergency unit,¡± she said urgently.

    The receptionist checked herputer and nodded. ¡°Room 305. Take the elevator to the third floor.¡±

    Reba thanked her and hurried to the elevator, her mind whirling with fear and uncertainty. When the elevator doors opened on the third floor, she quickly found room 305. She paused outside, taking a deep breath, before pushing the door open.

    Nichs <iy </i>on the bed, pale and unconscious, with various monitors and tubes connected to him. Emma, the nurse <i>who </i>had called her, was adjusting one of the machines. She looked up as Reba entered.

    ¡°Are you a friend of Nichs<b>?</b>¡± Emma asked.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Reba Harper,¡± she replied, her voice shaky. ¡°What happened to him?¡±

    Emma sighed. ¡°He was in a car ident. He¡¯s stable now, but we need to contact his family.¡±

    +81%

    Reba nodded, her mind racing. ¡°He doesnt have family around here. I¡¯m probably the closest thing he has to family.¡±

    Emma gave her a sympathetic look. ¡°You can stay with him. He¡¯ll likely wake up soon, but he¡¯ll need support.¡±

    Reba pulled a chair to Nichs¡¯s bedside and sat down, her eyes never leaving his face. She reached out and gently held his hand, willing him to wake up.

    Minutes felt like hours, but finally, Nichs stirred. His eyes fluttered open, and he looked around, disoriented. When his gaze settled on Reba, relief washed over his

    face. 4

    ¡°Becky,¡± he whispered, his voice weak.

    ¡°I¡¯m here, Nic. You¡¯re going to be okay,¡± she said, her voice breaking with emotion. ¡°What happened? How could you get a car crash? Shouldn¡¯t you be at home?<b>¡± </b>She couldn¡¯t wait to interrogate him.

    <i>¡°</i><i>I </i>was going to get something from the office but-

    ¡°From the office? Couldn¡¯t you just call your assistant or something? Don¡¯t you realize that your cancer could affect

    your

    focus?¡±

    ¡°I know, I¡¯m sorry but I¡¯m fine now,¡± said Nichs while reaching Reba¡¯s hand and gripping it gently.

    Reba let out a long sigh. ¡°Does it affect the cancer? I think I need to see the doctor,¡± she said, getting up from the chair but Nichs¡¯s hand stopped her, ¡°Just stay here, please!¡±

    Reba looked <i>at </i>Nichs who was looking at her with pleading eyes and couldn¡¯t help but sit back down. ¡°Alright, now get some rest,¡± she said firmly.

    Can¡¯t

    Nichs shook his head, ¡°I¡¯ve told the doctor to move my treatment to home, I stay in the hospital for too long, this will trigger stress and affect my <i>illness</i><b>,</b>¡± he said quietly. Reba red, ¡°What? Are you sure? But <i>all </i>these cables<b>?</b>¡±

    ¦°

    THE

    ¡°I don¡¯t need it, I¡¯m sure I¡¯m fine, I just have a little bruising on my chest and a little. swelling on my heart-¡±

    ¡°Nic, have you lost your mind? Are you ying with your life? I¡¯ll talk to the doctor, you¡¯re not going home, not in this condition! Reba interrupted as she let go of Nichs¡® hand and walked quickly out of the room.

    ¡°Can I meet the doctor who handles Nichs Bet?¡± Reba asked a doctor who was standing near Nichs¡® room. ¡°You¡¯re talking to him, how can I help you?¡± the doctor asked, looking up from the boardwalk in his hands.

    ¡°Um, about his gliostoma, does the ident affect-¡±

    The doctor frowned. ¡°What? Gliostoma? Are you sure we¡¯re talking about Mr. Bet?¡± He interrupted, confused.

    Reba nodded, ¡°Yes, have you had an MRI scan?¡±

    The doctor took a deep breath and said, ¡°Ma¡¯am, of course we did and we didn¡¯t find-¡±

    Before the doctor could finish his sentence, Nichs suddenly shouted, ¡°Becky, let¡¯s go home!¡± He stood in the doorway of his room, clutching his bleeding arm where he had forcibly removed the IV drip.

    ¡°Nic! What the hell are you doing?¡± Reba red in surprise. She walked quickly over to Nichs. ¡°What are you doing?¡± she asked, looking at him in disbelief.

    ¡°My adoptive father is on his way here. Someone must have contacted him, and he¡¯s thest person <i>I </i>want to see right now. Let¡¯s go, quickly!¡± Nichs took Reba¡¯s hand, ignoring the doctor¡¯s attempts to stop them.

    ¡°Nic, this is so wrong! You can¡¯t just go home like this,¡± said Reba as she walked, following Nichs¡® fast steps. ¡°Nic, wait!¡± Reba held Nichs¡® hand as he crossed a room and saw Harvey there. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    but

    <i>¡°</i>Becky, I don¡¯t have time for this. Let¡¯s go!¡± said Nichs, forcing Reba <i>to </i>move, she let go of his hand and entered the room before the nurse shut it. She stood at the door, looking at Harvey, who was standing at the edge of the bed<i>, </i>and watching Alicia, who was lying with an oxygen tube in her nose. She just stood there for a long time with her hands clenched tightly. She believed Alicia was manipting <i>Harvey</i>, but didn¡¯t know how to prove it.

    ¡°Babe? Let¡¯s go!¡± Nichs suddenly said, making Harvey, who heard the voice, turn

    ¦°

    towards the door to catch them.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Harvey red, surprised by Reba¡¯s appearance there.

    ¡°Sorry, we have the wrong room! Let¡¯s go, Babe!¡± said Nichs, then grabbed Reba¡¯s hand and took her out.

    ¡°Nic, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Reba hissed irritably, yanking her hand away. As she turned her head in another direction, her eyes suddenly locked on a man in a white doctor¡¯s coat, someone she recognized immediately. ¡°Doctor Theo?¡±

 BIT 27

    Chapter <b>27 </b>

    +81%#

    Reba approached Dr. Theo, her hands tightly clenched. She was one hundred. percent sure that Dr. Theo had a hand in falsifying her medical records when she lost her pregnancy because Alicia pushed her from the top of a high staircase.

    ¡°You¡¯re Dr. Ronald Theodore, aren¡¯t you? Remember me?¡± Reba greeted coldly. Dr. Theo¡¯s eyes widened, surprised by Reba¡¯s sudden appearance. He frowned, ¡°Yeah, you are Mrs. Specter, right?¡±

    Reba snorted, ¡°Stop pretending! You can¡¯t have forgotten me, not after what you did to me! How much did Alicia pay you to break your medical oath?¡± she snapped, her eyes shing.

    Dr. Theo frowned in confusion, ¡°Mrs. Specter, I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about-¡±

    ¡°Becky, we have to go now, please!¡± Nichs grabbed Reba¡¯s hand, looking at her with a pained expression. Reba was faced with a difficult choice: go home with Nichs or confront Dr. Theo, but Nichs¡¯s tight grip on her hand made her give in.

    ¡°Don¡¯t think you can escape your crime; I will chase you and make you confess everything you¡¯ve done!¡± Reba hissed sharply, knowing Dr. Theo was just pretending to know nothing.

    She helped Nichs walk unsteadily down the corridor and suddenly felt someone watching her. She turned back, following her instincts, and saw Harvey standing in front of Alicia¡¯s room, looking at her with an indescribable expression.

    ¡°Becky, my chest hurts,¡± Nichs whispered, making Reba turn her attention back to him, leaving Harvey gazing at her with a wave <i>of </i>jealousy he had never felt before.

    ¡°Where¡¯s your

    ¡®s your car?¡± Reba asked when they were already in the lobby. ¡°In the repair shop. Can you order an Uber for us?¡± Nichs replied, leaning against a pir. Reba nodded, ¡°You said your adoptive father is nearby; we could run into him at any moment here. Are you okay with that?¡± she asked while opening the Uber app.

    Nichs cleared his throat softly, ¡°Um, my informant says they¡¯re still a few minutes away, so I think we have enough time, and don¡¯t ask why I¡¯m avoiding my father; I can¡¯t tell anyone yet.¡±

    Reba sensed something odd about Nichs¡¯s words but chose not to ask. Five minutester, the Uber <i>she </i>ordered arrived. She helped Nichs into the car, which

    took them to the apartment.

    leaned back in the car s

    +81%

    and stared out the window. Her head felt so full it was about to explode. Suddenly, her phone vibrated. She opened it and felt her heart race when she saw Harvey¡¯s name.

    ¡®I can¡¯t watch you walk away from me.¡±

    She almost dropped her phone but managed to catch it again.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Nichs turned to her, surprised.

    Reba cleared her throat, ¡°Yeah, my hand¡¯s a bit sweaty,¡± she replied, turning off her phone screen and shoving it into her bag. She didn¡¯t know why, but she chose to keep everything from Nichs, maybe because she didn¡¯t want to burden him or because she didn¡¯t fully trust him.

    As they arrived at Nichs¡¯s apartment, Reba helped Nichs lie down in his room. ¡°Have you called a doctor or nurse <i>to </i>make sure you¡¯re okay?¡± she asked, sitting on the edge of his bed.

    Nichs nodded, ¡°Yeah.¡± He reached out, holding Reba¡¯s warm fingers. ¡°Can you stay here for a while? I really need you,¡± he pleaded, tears welling up in his eyes, making it hard for Reba to say no.

    ¡°Alright, just until you feel better, okay?¡± Reba responded cautiously.

    ¡°Okay. Um, there¡¯s something I need to tell you,¡± Nichs said, looking deeply into her

    eyes.

    Reba frowned, ¡°Okay? What is it?¡±

    Nichs took a deep breath. ¡°What happened to me earlier was no ident,¡± he said confidently.

    ¡°What? I don¡¯t understand-¡±

    ¡°Someone deliberately targeted me. They followed me on a motorcycle from the moment I left the apartment building and tricked me into crashing into a <i>bridge</i>,¡± Nichs exined angrily.

    Reba stared in shock. ¡°Are you sure? But who would want to hurt you? I mean, don¡¯t you not have any enemies?¡±

    9<b>+</b>81%% Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Nichs withdrew his hand from Reba and looked up at the ceiling. ¡°I¡¯ve had my people trace the bike, and-¡±

    ¡°And?¡± Reba urged impatiently.

    ¡°And it turns out the bike belongs to one of Harvey Specter¡¯s bodyguards. Isn¡¯t that a strange coincidence?¡±

    Reba gaped in disbelief. ¡°What? Are you sure? But Harvey I know wouldn¡¯t do something like that. I mean, he might be a jerk, but he¡¯s not a killer,¡± she rambled uncontrobly.

    ¡°Can you stop defending him? For god¡¯s sake, he ditched you in the worst way!¡± Nichs snapped, extremely angry, as if jealousy had taken over him.

    ¡°Nic! Chill, okay? I¡¯m not defending anyone, I¡¯m just saying what¡¯s on my mind. Alright, have you reported your findings to the authorities?¡± Reba asked calmly, trying hard to control her emotions. Deep down, she was sure Harvey wouldn¡¯t do something so cheap like that.

    ¡°Are you kidding me? I¡¯m not letting your ex¨Chusband think I¡¯m afraid of him. I¡¯ll handle this my way,¡± Nichs replied without looking at her.

    750

    Reba was silent for a few moments, then nodded slowly, ¡°If that¡¯s what you think is best.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s it? My life doesn¡¯t mean anything to you, does it?¡± Nichs finally turned to her, looking at her with a strange expression that gave her chills.

    ¡°Really? If your life didn¡¯t matter to me, I wouldn¡¯t havee to the hospital when the nurse called me! What is wrong with you?¡± Reba responded, feeling very upset.

    Nichs stared at her for a moment, his anger slowly subsiding. He sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Becky. I just I¡¯m scared and frustrated. It¡¯s like everything is falling apart, and I don¡¯t have anyone to talk to.¡±

    Reba let out a long sigh and nodded.

    ¡°I know, I¡¯m sorry too. You need to take your pills and get some rest,¡± she said, taking the medicine from the nightstand and helping Nichs with them.

    <i>¡°</i><i>You¡¯ll </i><i>be </i>here when I wake up, won¡¯t you?¡± Nichs asked, gripping her wrist.

    Reba nodded, feeling ufortable with his grip. ¡°Close your eyes, I¡¯ll be right here,¡± she said, gently freeing her hand and moving to the sofa near the bed.

    Nichs fell asleep within ten minutes after taking the pills. Just as Reba was about to leave the room, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Harvey.

    ¡®Can youe downstairs? I¡¯m in the car right across the building.

    Reba almost dropped her phone in shock,

 BIT 28

    Chapter <b>28 </b>

    Reba nced at Nichs, who was now sound asleep, his breathing steady. She slipped out of the room quietly, closing the door behind her. Her heart pounded as she made her way to the elevator, the weight of Harvey¡¯s message heavy in her mind.

    As the elevator descended, her thoughts raced. Why was Harvey here? What could he possibly want?

    The doors opened to the lobby, and she walked out, scanning the area until she saw Harvey¡¯s car parked across the street. She crossed over and saw him sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, looking out at her with a mix of relief and anxiety.

    Reba opened the passenger door and slipped inside, closing it behind her. ¡°What are you doing here, Harvey?¡± she asked, her voice a mixture of curiosity and annoyance.

    Harvey looked at her closely, ¡°I can¡¯t get you out of my mind,¡± he answered without blinking. Reba felt her cheeks flush red. Her heart was beating so fast that it was deafening her ears. She felt like a high school student who fell in love for the first time.

    ¡°Oh,e on! We both know you¡¯re just making it up! Just go straight to the point, What do you want?¡± Reba said, pretending not to be affected by Harvey¡¯s words. ¡°You really want to know what I want?¡± Harvey asked in his deep, soothing voice.

    Reba turned her head, and suddenly Harvey brought his face closer until they were only five inches apart. Reba swallowed hard. She could feel Harvey¡¯s warm breath and was sure Harvey could hear her heartbeat.

    ¡°What are <i>you </i>doing?¡± she whispered. She knew she should have pushed him away, but her body betrayed her.

    Harvey didn¡¯t answer, but his face got closer until their lips touched. ¡°My body is used <i>to </i>your presence,¡± he whispered, then kissed Reba gently<i>. </i>

    Three secondster, the rain fell heavily, as if it were deliberately trapping the two of them in the car. Reba tried to fight the urge to kiss back, but her body rejected the idea. She put both hands on Harvey¡¯s face instead and kissed him passionately.

    For a moment, the world outside the car ceased to exist. The rain drummed on the roof, creating a cocoon around them and sealing them off from everything and everyone. Time seemed to stop as their kiss deepened, a mixture of longing and

    <b>Wed</b>, Aug 14

    desperation fueling the intensity.

    +81%%

    Reba pulled back slightly, her breathing ragged. ¡°This isn¡¯t right, Harvey,¡± she said, her voice shaky. ¡°You know it can¡¯t be.¡±

    ¡°I know, but I can¡¯t help what I feel. Every time I see you and every time I think about you, it¡¯s like I¡¯m drawn to you. I don¡¯t know what happened to me, but I felt empty after we divorced,¡± said Harvey earnestly.

    Reba felt her stomach churn. She felt ttered and couldn¡¯t believe what had juste out of her ex¨Chusband¡¯s mouth. She took a deep breath, trying to think clearly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand, Harvey. If you love Alicia so much, why do you have time to think about me? Have you forgotten? For fuckin¡® three years, I tried to make you fall in love with me, but what did I get? Now, when I¡¯m trying to put my life back together, how could you appear and say that you can¡¯t forget me? You are such a selfish bastard!¡±

    Harvey looked down, his arrogance fading instantly.

    ¡°I know, I just-¡±

    When he turned to Reba, their lips identally touched. They stared at each other for a few seconds, and suddenly an agreement seemed to be made without a sound.

    Reba didn¡¯t resist when Harvey kissed her once again, and when his hands moved to open her dress<b>, </b>she knew that night would be a turning point in their rtionship.

    Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions as Harvey¡¯s hands roamed over her. The familiarity of his touch, the electricity between them, it was all too much to resist. She tried to remember why this was wrong and why she should stop, but the reasons seemed to slip away with every touch of his lips on her skin.¡±

    The rain continued to pour outside, masking their movements within the car. It felt like they were in a world of their own, a world where nothing else mattered but the two of them. As Harvey¡¯s lips traveled down her neck, Reba let out a soft moan, her hands gripping his shoulders.

    Suddenly, a sh of lightning illuminated <i>the </i>car, followed by a p of thunder that shook them both. It was like a wake¨Cup call, pulling Reba back to reality. She pushed Harvey away, her breathing in short gasps.

    We can¡¯t do this,¡± she said, her voice trembling. ¡°This isn¡¯t right!¡±

    ¡°Harvey, stop We can¡¯t <i>do </i>this,¡± she N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    11:34 Wed, Aug 14 ti.

    +

    Harvey¡¯s face fell, and he pulled back, his eyes filled with regret. ¡°I know, Becky. I know. But I just¡­ I miss you. I miss us.¡±

    Reba closed her eyes, trying to steady herself. ¡°We can¡¯t go back to the way things. were. I¡¯m not a robot! All I want is your love, not just your body! I will not let you hurt me one more time.¡±

    Harvey sighed, looking defeated. ¡°Becky, I just¡­ I can¡¯t exin it to you right now; it¡¯splicated, I-¡±

    Reba reached out, taking his hand. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on inside your head, but this¡­ this can¡¯t happen again, unless-¡±

    ¡°Unless what?¡±

    ¡°Unless you can choose between me and Alicia,¡± Reba said firmly.

    Harvey took a deep breath, a sad smile ying on his lips. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple, Becky.¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°Why not? She is evil, Harvey! I swear to God she had purposely pushed me off the top of the stairs that day and hidden the fact about my miscarriage! She¡¯s working with Doctor Theo! You should know that!¡±

    Harvey massaged his head. ¡°We¡¯ve discussed this before. I know you hate Alicia, but she¡¯s a loving person; she couldn¡¯t possibly do all that.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really? So you believe that I deliberately harmed myself just to make you hate her? Does that sound more reasonable?¡± Reba snapped back in anger.

    ¡°We¡¯ve talked about this, and it¡¯s clear already, isn¡¯t it? I mean, Lucy¡¯s testimony-

    ¡°Lucy was being pressured by Alicia all this time! She sent me an Email and said she was under pressure when she gave the testimony that day!¡± Reba shouted in despair.

    Harvey turned around in surprise. ¡°What? Did that emaile from Lucy¡¯s valid email address?¡± he asked tensely.

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°Of course not; she didn¡¯t want Alicia to know about it so she used a fake email address but the point is¡ª¡±

    ¡°The point <i>is</i>, you can¡¯t prove what you said. Becky, I¡¯ve known Alicia since she was five years old, and I know very well how she is. I¡¯m sorry if she ruined our marriage, but your usation was too much,¡± said Harvey looking away.

    34 Wed, Aug

    Reba felt disappointment gnaw at her chest. She regretted letting herself fall under Harvey¡¯s charm once again. ¡°Okay, you¡¯ve made your decision. So don¡¯t ever see me again.¡±

    ¡°Becky¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± Becky snapped without turning around.

    She didn¡¯t even look at Harvey¡¯s face as she exited his car. She mmed the car door hard and walked towards Nichs¡® apartment with tears welling in her eyes. She promised it would be thest time she talked to Harvey¨Cnever again. However, she was unaware that someone was observing her every move from a distance¡­

 BIT 29

    <b>Chapter </b>29

    Reba returned to Nichs¡® apartment, drenched from head to toe. Pecking into Nichs¡® room, she found him still sound asleep. She took a deep breath, her steps heavy and slow as she made her way to the bathroom. Without bothering to remove her soaked clothes, she stepped into the bathtub, hoping the water would help clear her mind.

    ¡®What¡¯s going on in Harvey¡¯s head? Why is he looking for me if he can¡¯t choose between me and Alicia?<b>¡® </b>

    Scenes from the car reyed in her mind, causing her stomach to churn with uninvited desire. She could still feel the touch of Harvey¡¯s hand, the kiss of his lips, the warmth of his breath¡­

    ¡®Stop, Becky! He doesn¡¯t even believe you! He has more faith in that cunning bitch!¡± a Voice inside her head screamed. Reflexively, Reba pped her cheek hard, desperate to push Harvey out of her thoughts.

    After soaking and cleaning herself for almost thirty minutes, Reba went to the kitchen and poured herself a ss of wine. Scrolling through her phone, she reopened Lucy¡¯s email and replied:

    ¡®Can we meet? I need your help.¡¯

    Her focus would now be on taking down Alicia. She would set aside her feelings for Harvey. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Just as she was about to enter the guest room, she heard a noise from Nichs¡® bedroom. Frowning, she rushed over and found Nichs bending down, picking something up from the floor.

    ¡°Are you awake?¡± Reba asked, surprised. She thought the sleeping pills would keep Nichs out for hours.

    Nichs nodded, ¡°Yeah, I need the toilet,¡± he said, clutching his chest. Reba quickly went to his side and held his arm. ¡°Let me help you,¡± she said, stifling a yawn.

    ¡°You just finished showering?¡± Nichs asked his eyes so t and emotionless that it made Reba shiver.

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Reba nodded, wondering what had caused this sudden change in Nichs¡®

    demeanor.

    981%

    ¡°You gonna be alright?¡± she asked before leaving him in the bathroom. Nichs nodded, then closed the door without another word.

    Reba frowned in confusion. Suddenly, an epiphany crossed her mind.

    ¡®What if Nichs saw what Harvey and I did in the car earlier?¡® she muttered, covering her mouth in shock.

    ¡®No, it¡¯s impossible! He clearly fell asleep after taking the sleeping pills!¡® Reba waved her hand, dismissing the thought.

    ¡®With the dose he took, he should have slept for at least six hours, but he was awake in less than two. What if¡­?¡® Reba¡¯s eyes widened, her body stiffening.

    ¡®What if he didn¡¯t take sleeping pills at all? Did he trick me on purpose? But why?

    Not long after, the bathroom door opened, and Nichs appeared, walking unsteadily. ¡°Is everything okay?¡± he asked tly.

    Reba red in surprise, feeling as if Nichs had just read her mind. ¡°Yeah, want to go back to your room? You need more sleep,¡± she said, forcing a small smile despite feeling all over the ce.

    ¡°I¡¯m hungry, but you can go to bed. I¡¯ll make my own food,¡± he said, walking into the kitchen, ignoring Reba¡¯s offer to help.

    Reba knew she should be relieved that Nichs was ignoring her, but half her heart

    Ohe on, I won¡¯t let you worried because he looked very unwell. cook for yourself. What do you want to eat? Let me make it for you,¡± she said patiently.

    1

    ¡°Anything except the ex,¡± Nichs replied, opening the refrigerator.

    Reba was stunned. She looked at Nichs, arms folded across her chest. ¡°Nic? Is there something you want to talk to me about?¡± She was sure her guess was correct.

    Nichs grabbed a can of beer and drank it quickly, emptying it in one go. ¡°The question is for you. Is there something you want to tell me?¡±

    Reba rubbed her face tiredly.

    ¡°Nic, I know this sounds mean, but can you not speak with that intonation, as <i>if </i>you are

    <b>Chapter </b>29

    my boyfriend or something?¡± she said irritably.

    Nichol

    crushed the beer can until it was dented, then threw it into the trash so hard that Reba jumped in shock.

    ¡°I witnessed how you were bleeding and injured inside and out because of your ex husband. How could you stupidly want to go back to him? Even crawling into his car like a cheap whore,¡± Nichs hissed, his eyes shing with anger.

    Reba immediately became angry. ¡°Firstly, it was Alicia who caused all my injuries, not Harvey. Second, even though I crawled into his car, it was none of your business. You have no right to judge me!¡±

    Nichs snorted, ¡°I have every right to judge you! Have you forgotten who was by your side when you were down?¡±

    ¡°No one¨Cforced you to do that, Nic. Wait, you saw me meeting Harvey downstairs earlier? So those sleeping pills, are they fake?¡± Reba asked, massaging her forehead.

    Nichs looked away, ¡°That¡¯s not the point. The point is¡­¡±

    ¡°You lied to me, that¡¯s the whole point! I don¡¯t understand why you pretended to be asleep. Was it so you could keep an eye on me? You know what, Nic? You scared the hell out of me,¡± Reba said, shaking her head in disbelief.

    Nichs rubbed his face, feeling cornered.

    ¡°You look fine, so I¡¯ll go,¡± said Reba, walking quickly to the guest room where she kept her bag.

    Nichs stared at Reba¡¯s back <i>for </i>a long time, then said a quiet ¡°Okay,¡± which made Reba stop in her tracks in surprise.

    ¡°Just enjoy your life and don¡¯t bothering to my funeral. Good night.¡±

    Nichs went back into his bedroom and closed the door slowly, leaving Reba faced with a dilemma. She sat on the guest room bed, clutching her bag tightly, afraid that she would end up making the wrong decision. She couldn¡¯t shake the image of Nichs¡® haunted eyes. She had to confront him and get to the bottom of his sudden hostility.

    ¡°There must be an answer to his action but what if he did that because he cared too much about me?¡± she muttered, unsure.

    81%

    Suddenly, she heard a loud thud from Nichs¡® room. Panic surged through her as she rushed to the door.

    ¡°Nichs?¡± she called, knocking frantically. No response. She twisted the knob and pushed the door open, her heart pounding. She found Nichs lying on the floor, unconscious.

    ¡°Shit! Nic? Nic?¡±

    ****ÂÊ

    0

 30

    +81%%%

    Reba was about to call 911 when Nichs suddenly opened his eyes<b>. </b>

    ¡°Nic? What happened to you?¡± she asked, worried. Nichs could be annoying sometimes, but she cared about him nheless. At least he was the only one who believed in her when no one else did.

    ¡°My head feels like it¡¯s splitting in two,¡± Nichs said, grimacing as he closed his eyes.

    Reba winced. ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll help you up. We¡¯ll call the doctor,¡± she said, extending her hand to help Nichs get up.

    ¡°I already have painkillers. No need to <b>call </b>the doctor,¡± Nichs replied, still closing his

    eyes.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Nichs nodded. ¡°Come here, lie down next to me. My head hurts too much to stand up.¡± he muttered, patting the empty floor beside him.

    Reba scratched the back of her neck hesitantly, but seeing Nichs¡¯s pleading look, she finallyy down on the warm carpeted floor.

    ¡°I¡¯ve decided not to undergo any treatment and to live my life as usual,¡± Nichs said. suddenly, causing Reba to turn in surprise

    ¡°What? Nic, that¡¯s not something you can joke about!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m dead serious! My doctor said I have about a year left with my current condition, so I¡¯m just going to make the most of the time I have left doing what I want. I don¡¯t want to spend my remaining time forcing my body to endure harsh and painful treatments,¡± Nichs exined confidently, with no hint of doubt in his eyes.

    Reba frowned.

    <i>¡°</i>But how will you deal with the pain? At least chemotherapy could extend your life

    reconsider?¡± expectancy. Shouldn¡¯t you

    Nichs shook his head.

    <i>¡°</i><i>I¡¯ll </i>just rely on high¨Cdose painkillers, and I think that¡¯s enough for me. I¡¯ve read many storics where chemo sess for cases like mine is very insignificant. <i>So </i>instead of

    Wed, <b>Au </b>

    seeing myself deteriorate <b>because </b>of chemo, I¡¯d rather be the best version of myself before I die,¡± Nichs said, staring at the ceiling with a faint smile <b>on </b>his face.

    Reba opened her mouth and then closed it again, lost for words. She took a deep breath and stared at the ceiling in silence as if there had never been any conflict. between them before.

    Suddenly, Nichs grasped her hand.

    ¡°I know this is a lot to ask, but can you stay with me for the rest of my short life? I just want to feel happy once before I say goodbye to this world.¡±

    Reba turned to see tears falling from Nichs¡¯s eyes, soaking the carpet. She took a deep breath. Although Nichs¡¯s words during their argument earlier had hurt her, she was not a robot immune to emotion when hearing such words from someone who was dying.

    ¡°Okay¡­¡±

    Nichs turned in surprise, ¡°Okay?¡±

    Reba nodded, ¡°Yeah, okay,¡± she replied. She didn¡¯t know how she would manage this new phase of her life, but it was the wisest decision she could make at that moment.

    ¡°Do you believe in the old saying that lovees from familiarity?¡± Nichs asked, unwilling to let go of her hand.

    The question brought Reba back to her three¨Cyear marriage with Harvey, which had ended in disaster. If love came from familiarity, why could Harvey never love her despite spending so much time together?

    ¡°Becky?¡±

    Reba snapped back to reality. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I¡¯ve never proven it,¡± she replied, grimacing.

    ¡°I¡¯ll prove it to you,¡± Nichs said, smiling faintly. Reba knew she should feel ttered, but instead, she felt a shiver when she heard those words.

    That night, they didn¡¯t discuss their previous argument. Reba ordered healthy takeout, and they ate in Nichs¡¯s room while watching a documentary about a football yer as if nothing had happened between them.

    Chapter <b>30 </b>

    ¡°I¡¯m very sleepy, Reba murmured after finishing a ss of water.

    80%

    ¡°Make yourselffortable. I¡¯ll wake you if you suddenly fall asleep,¡± Nichs said, without taking <b>his </b>eyes off the TV. Reba nodded and rested her head on a pillow she had arranged to be slightly elevated. As the film yed minute by minute, Reba fell asleep next to Nichs, who kept staring at her face without blinking, as if she were the most beautiful goddess descended from heaven.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do anything to keep you by my side, Nichs whispered, gently touching Reba¡¯s head.

    The next morning.

    Reba woke up to the bright light streaming through the window curtains. ¡°Shit!¡± she eximed, sitting up straight. She looked around and realized she was in Nichs¡¯s room. She pulled back the nket covering her and sighed in relief when she found she was still fully dressed.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Nichs?¡± she murmured, puzzled.

    She dragged her feet out of the room, and the aroma of waffles hit her nose. ¡°Nic?¡± she called, half¨Crunning to the kitchen.

    ¡°Morning, Becky!¡± Nichs said cheerfully, pouring waffle batter into the waffle maker. Reba frowned. ¡°What are you doing? Shouldn¡¯t you be resting?¡± she scolded, surprised not only because Nichs was making breakfast for them but also because he was already dressed for work.

    ¡°I feel energized this morning, so I decided to go to work. There¡¯s a client I need to handle,¡± he replied cheerfully.

    ¡°Are you sure? Nic, did you forget you fainted from the painst night? Don¡¯t take your illness lightly, okay?¡± Reba scolded, folding her arms across her chest.

    Nichs smiled. He stacked the cooked waffles on a te and set it on the table in front of Reba. ¡°Don¡¯t worry<b>, </b>I¡¯ll be home early and I won¡¯t do anything strenuous. Do you have any ns today?¡± he asked casually as if he were not a stage three¨Cbrain cancer patient.

    Reba sighed deeply.

    ¡°Yeah, a product catalog photoshoot,¡± she replied, reluctant to argue with Nichs because it made her ufortable to act like a real couple.

    ²è<b>+</b><b>80</b><b>% </b>

    Nichs nodded. ¡°What time will you finish? I¡¯ll pick you up, and we can go to the hotel. to get your stuff and bring them here,¡± he said casually<i>, </i>but it made Reba feel queasy.

    Reba slightly regretted her decision, but she knew she couldn¡¯t take back her words. ¡°Um, I don¡¯t know yet. I¡¯ll let you knowter,¡± she said, cutting arge piece of waffle and stuffing it into her mouth.

    at

    ¡°Okay, just please let me know,¡± Nichs said, looking intently.

    Reba nodded hesitantly. While she scrolled through her social media suddenly her phone buzzed, an email from Lucy. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡®Ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll be shopping at Morton Williams 57th Street at 11 today. Can we meet there?¡±

 31

    <b>Chapter </b><b>31 </b>

    Reba jumped out of the cab. She only had thirty minutes <b>to </b>meet Lucy before heading to the catalog photoshoot. Morton Williams didn¡¯t look too busy from the outside. She strode inside, her eyes scanning every aisle in search of Lucy and there she was, bending over to choose some meat. She took a deep breath, removed her sunsses, and walked towards her.

    ¡°Lucy, long time no see,¡± Reba whispered, bending over beside Lucy, pretending to pick meat.

    Lucy turned to her, startled so much that she dropped the tenderloin pack in her hand. Her body trembled as she looked down and squeezed her suddenly mmy fingers.

    ¡°Lucy, are you okay?¡± Reba asked, reflexively touching Lucy¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I shouldn¡¯t have given false testimony and caused you and Mr. Specter to divorce.¡±

    Reba sighed deeply, ¡°That¡¯s in the past, and I know you did it because you were forced to. Listen, Lucy<b>, </b>I need any evidence that can legally implicate Alicia. Do you know anything?¡± she asked, staring intently at Lucy.

    Lucy swallowed hard, ¡°I¡¯ve heard many things, but I have no evidence, Ma¡¯am,¡± she replied, slowly daring to meet Reba¡¯s gaze.

    Reba was taken aback; she had hoped for more from that meeting. ¡°Alright, tell me anything you know, anything. I don¡¯t have much time,¡± she said quickly.

    ¡°Um, your suspicion about Dr. Theodore is valid. He and Alicia have had a connection. for a long time. They often talk on the phone and there¡¯s one more thing, Ma¡¯am,¡± Lucy began to speak more normally.

    ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s someone she often talks to about you. I don¡¯t know who, but she¡¯s not alone, Ma¡¯am. There is someone else with the same agenda, to separate you from Mr. Specter.¡±

    Reba felt nauseous. ¡°And about the ident she had yesterday-¡±

    Lucy waved her hand dismissively, <i>¡°</i>Of course<i>, </i><i>it </i>was part of an act. I don¡¯t know how<b>, </b>but Alicia has connections with corrupt paramedics willing to do anything for money.

    <b>11:35 </b><b>Wed</b>, Aug 14 ti Ww

    I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t get proof, but <b>I </b>truly hope you can put her in jail, Ma¡¯am. I¡­I don¡¯t <b>care </b>if I have to go to jail too for my false testimony,¡± she said, her voice choked with

    emotion.

    Reba was stunned. She shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that; you¡¯ve done the right thing. Alright, I have to go now. Thank you for letting me know everything, Lucy, it¡¯s very helpful,¡± she said sincerely.

    Lucy couldn¡¯t hold back her tears, her guilt mounting in her chest.

    <b>+5 </b>

    over. Bye.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, Lucy. I¡¯m fine now. I hope we can meet again after all this drama Reba gently patted Lucy¡¯s shoulder, put her sunsses back on, and quickly walked out of Morton Williams.

    On her way to the studio, Reba¡¯s mind was filled with questions about who else shared Alicia¡¯s agenda. Suddenly, her phone vibrated¨Ca message from Nichs.

    ¡°Hi, Gorgeous, are you at the studio yet?¡±

    ¡°The only person close to me all this time is Nichs. What if he¡¯s the one working with Alicia? But doesn¡¯t Nichs love me? How could he n something to hurt me?¡®

    Instead of replying to Nichs, Reba got lost in her assumptions, staring nkly at her phone, she grabbed her hair in frustration at the uncertainty.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, we¡¯re here,¡± the cab driver called, peeking through the rearview mirror.

    Reba nodded and muttered, ¡°Thanks, keep the change,¡± before giving the cab driver her money and storming out of the lobby.

    Suddenly her phone buzzed again. ¡°Nic, you don¡¯t have to keep calling me. I just-¡±

    ¡°Becky, it¡¯s Harvey.¡±

    Surprised, Reba froze in ce. She had the option to end the call immediately, but she chose not to. She was confused about what to say as she stood close to the elevator, anxiously gripping her phone.

    Harvey replied in a strong <b>voice</b><b>, </b><b>¡°</b>Becky, I want to apologize forst night.¡±

    ¡°Apologies are not necessary. I gotta go,¡± she retorted coldly.

    ¡°Wait!¡±

    103480%

    ¡°Harvey, I¡¯m not the same Reba you married before. I¡¯m not going to worship you and ask for your affection anymore. I¡¯ve returned to sanity. Should I thank Alicia? I might never have realized it if she hadn¡¯t pushed me and made me hit my head hard that morning,¡± Reba snapped angrily.

    ¡°Becky, you know I never meant to-¡±

    ¡°It is toote.¡± What you statedst night rified your position. If we meet on the street, pretend we don¡¯t know each other. It¡¯s better that way. Bye, Harvey. Reba hung up the phone with shaky hands, unable to believe she had just stood up to her ex- husband, whom she still loved.

    Minutester.

    ¡°Becky! ¡°Over here!¡± yelled Cathy, an advertising agency employee. Reba took a long breath, attempting to calm her emotions. She walked over to the shooting crew with a big smile, as if nothing was wrong.

    ¡°By the

    way, Congrattions! I believe it is time for you to hire a manager or join an agency. You¡¯ll be very popr soon!¡± Cathy spoke pleasantly.

    Becky scowled, ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about.¡±

    ¡°Really? You haven¡¯t checked Arnault Saverio¡¯s social media ounts? You have over a million likes despite the fact that you are not a well¨Cknown celebrity! Sorry, I didn¡¯t want to insult you, but as a rookie, Becky, you have everyone¡¯s attention! Do you understand what that means? Many people will approach you soon with outrageous deals, so you best be prepared! You know what? I wouldn¡¯t mind being your manager,¡± Cathy said, then giggled.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Reba swiftly took out her phone from her bag and opened Arnault Saverio¡¯s social media pages. What Cathy stated was true and the number of likes had actually increased. She covered her mouth in amazement, unable toprehend what she was seeing. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Cathy smiled broadly, ¡°I wasn¡¯t lying, was I? Congrattions! You have surpassed Alicia

    up there Fox. As a fellow woman, I¡¯m delighted to see that and I¡¯m confident you¡¯ll <b>be </b>with the big names soon,¡± she said, nodding her head firmly.

    Reba looked at Cathy for a long time, making Cathy feel guilty. ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t mean

    <b>ved</b>, Aug 14

    to interfere with your personal affairs or anything, I just-¡±

    +<b>80</b>%

    ¡°No, I am not insulted at all. I am truly moved by your words. It¡¯s the support I¡¯ve been waiting for,¡± Reba said, her voice choking. She had always been alone, with just Nichs by her side, but she sensed he was doing it in the hopes that she would return his love. Sincerity was extremely difficult for her to find.

    Cathy was touched as well, she softly caressed Reba¡¯s back. ¡°I have been in your shoes. I mean, even my husband cheated on me. Oh my God, I feel like throwing up just thinking about it! Do you know what? He cheated on me with my sister! Disgusting, isn¡¯t it?¡± she said, chuckling as if she had long forgotten the pain.

    Reba was taken aback, feeling as if her worries were trivial. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Cathy,¡± she said sincerely.

    Cathy waved her hand, ¡°That is all in the past! What I mean is, you also need to let go of everything. I know you¡¯re on the right side, even though the public initially condemned you for your rtionship with Mr. Bet. But for some reason, my female intuition tells me you¡¯re the one who¡¯s been getting hurt all this time. Hang in there, Becky, that sorrow will bepensated for with other joys. Trust me.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I hope so,¡± Reba said, wiping the corners of her teary eyes.

    That day, the photo session went without a hitch. Reba¡¯s beautiful aura made the stylist and photographer believe she had a natural ability to be a celebrity.

    ¡°I heard Alicia had an ident,¡± Cathy murmured as they were enjoying coffee after the photoshoot. Reba shrugged, not wanting to discuss it further.

    ¡°She always sells drama to stay in the spotlight,¡± Cathy remarked, looking at her phone.

    Reba frowned, ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°She requested a television program to film and interview her at the hospital. I suppose she has NPD or something; she is extremely narcissistic!¡± Cathy answered, holding out her phone to Reba to show her the news.

    The story included a photo of Alicia in her hospital room, but <i>it </i>wasn¡¯t Alicia¡¯s pale makeup that drew Reba¡¯s attention; it was Dr. Theodore, the man in the white coat standing by the IV stand.

    ¡°Cathy, you know a lot of journalist friends, don¡¯t you?¡±

    + 80%

    Cathy shrugged, ¡°Well, I was a journalist before I became a PR at this agency. Why?¡±

    Reba agreed, ¡°That is even better. You should have solid investigative instincts. Can you help me figure out the rtionship between Alicia Fox and the doctor in this photo? In exchange, I¡¯ll hire you as my manager,¡± Reba stated firmly.

    Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief, ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, what do you think?¡±

    ¡°DEAL!¡± Cathy smiled broadly as she extended her hand and shook Reba¡¯s. Reba sighed, she felt better after discussing her burden with someone.

    ¡°Becky, someone is looking for you!¡± called one of the lighting staff members.

    Reba frowned, gazing at Cathy, who looked equally surprised. ¡°It must be Nichs,¡± she said, rising up and leaving the studio. She searched around but couldn¡¯t find Nichs anywhere. Suddenly, someone caressed her hip from behind.

    She turned to see Harvey standing there with a bunch of roses. Reba held her breath, not because Harvey was present, but because Nichs emerged behind him, carrying a bag from their favorite Japanese restaurant.

    ¡°Oh, shit¡­¡±

 BIT 32

    Chapter <b>32 </b>

    Reba froze, her mind racing. The tension between the two men was palpable, and she could see Nichs¡® jaw tighten as he spotted the flowers in Harvey¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Becky,¡± Nichs began, his voice strained but calm, ¡°I thought we were going to <b>have </b>dinner together.¡±

    Before she could respond, Harvey cut in, ¡°I just wanted to apologize in person. Can we talk, just for a minute?¡±

    Reba felt caught in the middle, the weight of both their expectations pressing down on her. She nced back at the studio entrance where Cathy stood, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    ¡°This is my workce, Reba said, trying to keep her voice steady. ¡°Let¡¯s not make a scene here.¡±

    Harvey stepped closer, his eyes pleading. ¡°Please, Becky. Just a moment.¡±

    Nichs put down the bag, his face hardening. ¡°Becky, you don¡¯t owe him anything. Let¡¯s go inside and talk.¡±

    Reba took a long breath, attempting to collect her thoughts. ¡°Harvey, I told you we were done. I don¡¯t need your apology, and we don¡¯t have anything else to talk about. Nic, let us go somewhere quiet and talk.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s face fell, but he nodded, taking a step back. ¡°Alright<i>. </i>I know you need some time, I¡¯ll call youter. You know I won¡¯t give up,¡± he said, turning and walking away.

    Reba¡¯s pulse pounded as she heard Harvey¡¯s words as if they were exactly what she wanted to hear from him. But she looked away, pretending not to care. She turned to Nichs and saw the hurt <i>in </i>his eyes.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the caf¨¦ around the corner. We need to talk.<b>¡± </b>This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Becky, what¡¯s going on? You don¡¯t have to take me anywhere just to talk with me. I won¡¯t demand anything from you because, like you said, we are not a couple<i>. </i><i>I </i>only came here because I was worried that you might be too busy and miss your dinner,¡± said Nichs casually. ¡°If this was about Harvey¡¯s presence earlier, I was only concerned that he would y with you again. Sorry if I overreacted, but I care deeply about you. But now I see you are a maturedy capable of making judgments, so I won¡¯t interfere

    with your business over again, I promise.¡±

    Reba looked up in amazement, unable to believe what she had heard. He stared at Nichs without blinking for several seconds, looking for signs of deception on his face. but finding none. ¡°Nic, do you realize that you change so quickly that sometimes it¡¯s hard for me to recognize you?¡± Reba muttered, not trying to hide her disbelief.

    Nichs grabbed Reba¡¯s hand with his one free hand. ¡°I understand. I used to wonder about my emotional instability, but now I know the answer. It turns out that the tumor in my head has a substantial impact on my unexpected emotional shifts; I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    Reba gulped, feeling a lump form in her throat. ¡°No, don¡¯t. I¡¯m just overwhelmed with everything. Harvey, Alicia, my jobs¡­ It¡¯s a lot to handle.¡±

    Nichs squeezed her hand gently. ¡°I understand. You know what, Becky? I will never judge you again and force you to do anything. I just want you to apany me until Ipletely lose my memory,¡± Nichs stated with a smile.

    Reba frowned. ¡°Lose your memory? What do you mean?¡±

    Nichs took a big breath. ¡°The doctor mentioned the process would be like that. He said that the tumor would eventually burn out my memory and cause me to forget who

    I was.¡±

    Reba covered her mouth in surprise. She felt everything Nichs said was like a movie script, but she couldn¡¯t deny that it was real. She took a big breath and nodded.

    ¡°Whatever it is, I will apany you as long as you keep your word not to be possessive as if we were a couple,¡± she replied, getting moreposed.

    Nichs grinned and nodded twice. ¡°I promise.¡± Can we drive to the car now? I¡¯m hungry,¡± he murmured, lifting the paper bag containing sushi in his hand.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± she said, tailing behind Nichs. She examined his straight posture, broad shoulders, and powerful muscles, wondering how he could appear healthy and normal when he was sick inside.

    They sat in Nichs¡® car, hungrily eating sushi and tempura.

    ¡°Hike seeing you living a normal life like this, he continued, nibbling on sushi.

    Reba let out a deep breath. ¡°Let¡¯s just pretend my life is normal, you just have to see

    it that way.¡±

    + <b>BU</b>%%%

    ¡°Okay, if that¡¯s what you want, we can just pretend we¡¯re ying a role. I know it¡¯s difficult for you to apany me in my condition, but because of your kind heart, you want to, so I will do the same. I want you to befortable and happy while you¡¯re with me. I know you haven¡¯t felt that way in a long time. Maybe it¡¯s because <b>I </b>force you to think like I do.¡±

    Reba looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there. ¡°I honestly feel as if I¡¯m speaking to someone other than Nichs Bet I know, but I enjoy the nice change in you. I¡¯m delighted you finally understand that I prefer to have boundaries. You should know that I have high expectations for your words,¡± she stated. She felt both relieved and odd, an emotion she struggled to define.

    Reba felt increasingly convinced that Nichs could not possibly coborate with at wickeddy like Alicia to bring her down during a lengthy chat with him. On the one hand, she was relieved but also concerned since revealing who that person was would be tougher.

    ¡°Um, do you want me to take you to the hotel to get your things or-

    ¡°Of course! I don¡¯t want the hassle of getting into a cab and carrying tworge suitcases,¡± Reba replied, wiping her lips with a wet tissue.

    Nichs smiled and nodded. He drove slowly toward the hotel, humming along to the random music ying in his car, which astounded Reba because she had never seen Nichs so happy and rxed like that.

    When they arrived at the hotel lobby, Nichs¡® cell phone buzzed and disyed an unsaved number. Reba took a quick look at his screen. At first, she didn¡¯t care, but then she instinctively attempted to memorize the number.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to pick it up?¡± Reba inquired as the cell phone buzzed for the third time.

    Nichs looked at the phone. ¡°It¡¯s just a spam number. They sometimes offer cleaning services, credit cards, security, or whatever, so I¡¯ll just ignore it!¡± He said that while staring straight ahead.

    Reba nodded, almost believing it if there hadn¡¯t been an iing message from the same number, apanied by nearly eight pop¨Cup messages.

    ×Ô¼Ò+80%

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll <b>go </b><b>in </b>alone. Just wait here,¡± Reba said, trying not to ask a question unrted to her.

    She jumped down quietly, although the corner of her eye was fixed on Nichs. She dashed into the hotel lobby and hid behind a pir to peek at him, and her stomach churned as she spotted him on the phone with a serious expression.

    ¡®Did he call that unknown number? What if it was Alicia¡¯s number?¡®

 BIT 33

    Chapter <b>33 </b>

    Reba¡¯s mind raced with suspicion as she watched Nichs from her hidden spot behind the pir. The thought of him potentially being connected to Alicia sent a chill down her spine. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. She needed to stay focused and not jump to conclusions.

    After a few minutes, Nichs ended the call and put his phone away. His expression was unreadable as he waited patiently in the car. Reba took a moment topose herself before walking back out<i>, </i>her steps deliberately calm and measured.

    ¡°All set?¡± Nichs asked with a smile as she approached.

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Reba replied, trying to match his smile. ¡°Let¡¯s get going.¡±

    As they drove back to Nichs¡¯s apartment, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off. The phone call and Nichs¡¯s evasiveness gnawed at her. She needed to find out more but decided it was best to tread carefully.

    Once they arrived at her apartment, Reba tried to push her doubts aside. They carried her suitcases inside, and she started unpacking, with Nichs helping where he could. Despite the underlying tension, they managed to settle into afortable rhythm.

    That night, as they sat on the couch watching another movie, Reba decided to broach the subject delicately. ¡°Nic, I know I shouldn¡¯t ask you this, and you have every right not to answer it, but-¡±

    ¡°Becky, what¡¯s wrong? Just fire the questions. I don¡¯t mind,¡± interrupted Nichs.

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Um, about that phone call, um, are you sure it was just spam?¡± N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Nichs nced at her, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. ¡°Yeah, pretty sure. Why do you ask?¡±

    Reba hesitated, choosing her words carefully. ¡°I don¡¯t know. It¡¯s just that you¡¯ve been acting differently, and I can¡¯t help but worry.¡±

    Nichs sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I get it, Becky<i>. </i>Things have been strangetely, and I know it¡¯s hard to trust after everything that¡¯s happened. But I promise you, I¡¯m not hiding anything from you<i>.</i>¡±

    ×Ô¼Ò+ 80%ˆD

    +6

    Reba searched his eyes, looking for any signs of deceit. All she saw was sincerity and concern. She nodded slowly, deciding to trust him for now. ¡°Okay. <b>I </b>believe you.¡±

    Nichs smiled, relieved. ¡°Thanks, Becky. I appreciate that.¡±

    They continued watching the movie, but Reba¡¯s mind was still restless. She knew she needed to dig deeper, but it had to be done carefully. For now, she decided to enjoy the moment and the rare sense of normalcy they were sharing.

    The next day, Reba woke up carly, her mind still preupied with the mysterious phone call. She decided to reach out to Cathy, hoping her journalist instincts could help uncover more about Nichs and his potential connections to Alicia.

    ¡°Cathy, do you have a moment?¡± Reba asked as they met for coffee at a small caf¨¦. ¡°Of course. What happened?¡± Cathy replied, sensing the urgency in Becky¡¯s voice.

    Reba took a deep breath, exining the situation with Nichs and the suspicious phone call. ¡°I need to know if there¡¯s any connection between Nichs and Alicia. I can¡¯t shake the feeling that something is off

    Cathy listened intently, her eyes narrowing as she processed the information. ¡°<i>Wow</i>! To <b>be </b>honest, this is somewhat unexpected. Mr. Bet should be the one you can trust the most, but I¡¯ll see what <i>I </i>can find out. It might take a little time, but I¡¯ll get to the bottom of this.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Cathy. I really appreciate it,¡± Reba said, feeling a surge of hope.

    As Reba returned to the apartment, she felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She needed answers, and she hoped Cathy could provide them. In the meantime, she would continue to y her role, bncing her trust and suspicion carefully.

    Time passed, and Reba maintained her routine with Nichs, all the while keeping a close eye on any clues that might reveal his <i>true </i>intentions. They spent time together, sharing meals and having conversations, but the underlying tension never fully disappeared.

    One thing that astonished Reba was that Harvey had stopped¨Ccontacting her. She still remembered very well that Harvey said that he would not give up, but after that day she no longer heard from him, and honestly, he was quite heartbroken.

    One evening, as they were finishing dinner, Reba¡¯s phone buzzed with a message

    ¡®Becky, I found something. Meet me tomorrow at the caf¨¦, same time.¡±

    <b>11 </b>

    Reba¡¯s heart raced as she read the message. She nced at Nichs, who was clearing the table, and forced a smile. ¡°I have to meet Cathy tomorrow for some work stuff. By the way, she is my manager now.¡±

    Nichs nodded, seemingly unbothered. ¡°Sure, no problem! You know what? I¡¯m so proud of you!¡± He eximed as he caressed her head gently.

    Reba smiled. ¡°Thanks,¡± she replied casually, trying not to get affected by Nichs¡® kind attitude.

    The next day, Reba arrived at the caf¨¦, her nerves on edge. Cathy was already there, a serious expression on her face.

    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Reba asked, sitting down across from her.

    Cathy leaned in, lowering her voice. ¡°First of all, it¡¯s not about Nichs, because I could hardly find any connection between him and Alicia.¡±

    Reba

    frowned. ¡°So why are we here?¡±

    Cathy took a big breath. ¡°Becky, I did some research and discovered a connection. between Alicia and Dr. Theodore. They never shared any moments, and that¡¯s why we couldn¡¯t find anything.¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°Okay? So?¡± She demanded impatiently.

    ¡°So, I found out that they were connected by someone!¡± Eximed Cathy, pping her hand.

    Reba felt a cold wave of dread wash over her. ¡°Who is it? Do I know that person?¡±

    Cathy cleared her throat. ¡°Just don¡¯t be surprised, okay? Don¡¯t be hurt, because it is the way it is.¡±

    ¡°Cathy, stop talking nonsense and tell me who that person is,¡± snapped Reba impatiently.

    ¡°Alright, alright! She is your ex¨Csister¨Cinw, Mia Specter.¡± Cathy nodded firmly, showing Reba that she was very confident about her discovery.

    Reba covered her mouth in surprise; she couldn¡¯t believe what she just heard.

 34

    Chapter <b>34 </b>

    <b>+ </b><b>80</b>%

    Reba¡¯s mind reeled. Mia Specter? Her ex¨Csister¨Cinw? It didn¡¯t make any sense. Miat had always been cruel but never openly hostile. How could she be connected to Alicia and Dr. Theodore?

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Reba asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Cathy nodded. ¡°I double¨Cchecked everything, Mia¡¯s been in contact with both Alicia and Dr. Theodore for months. It looks like she¡¯s the one pulling the strings behind the scenes. Here, take a look,¡± she said, showing Reba some pictures on her phone screen. Mia and Doctor Theodore were seen speaking earnestly in a restaurant. The picture appeared normal to the naked eye, but Reba saw it as aplete exnation.

    Reba felt a mix of anger and betrayal surge through her. ¡°Why would Mia do this? What could she possibly gain? I know she and her mother hated me, but I never thought she would go that far.¡±

    Cathy shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not sure yet, but I¡¯ll keep digging. There has to be a reason, and I¡¯ll find it but, to be honest, I¡¯m having trouble finding a thread connecting Nichs to Alicia or Theodore. I tried going to the hospital where he was diagnosed with gliostoma, but they keep all patients¡® medical data private, so I can¡¯t do anything.¡±

    ¡°I know, it¡¯s hard to y clean, but Cathy, as a friend, I want to hear from you. Do you think Nichs is involved with Alicia?¡± asked Reba, leaning her body to catch Cathy¡¯s raw reaction.

    Cathy cleared her throat. ¡°Well<b>, </b>to be honest, I am not sure. I mean, after you told me about Nichs, I was skeptical because there were so many coincidences, and they <b>all </b>had to do with hospitals. Do you understand what I mean?¡±

    <i>¡°</i>You think he faked his diagnosis?¡± Reba¡¯s voice stuck in her throat.

    Cathy shakes her head. ¡°It was only an assumption, Becky, and we will always feel bad <i>if </i>it turns out to be incorrect. I mean, he¡¯s dying, If we use him of charges that aren¡¯t yet proven, it willpletely kill him,¡± she replied, trying <i>to </i>be wise.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. ¡°You¡¯re right. Now let¡¯s talk about work! You said you got something for me?¡±

    Cathy smiled widely. ¡°Hell <b>yes</b><b>!</b>¡± ¡°Are you familiar with Kelly rkson¡¯s show?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba snorted. ¡°Is that even a question? Of course, I know! I mean, everyone is discussing it right now. Why? Don¡¯t tell me-

    +80<b>% </b>N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Cathy extended her hand, clutching Reba¡¯s. ¡°Yes, it is! You were asked to appear as a guest star! You were even asked to do Kelly¡¯s makeup live!¡±

    Reba covered her mouth in disbelief. She was one step closer to being popr. When all of Alicia¡¯s sins were exposed, she was certain that others would learn about her because she was no longer Miss Nobody. She is Becky Blush¨COff, the top influencer.

    ¡°Thanks, Cathy. I mean it.¡±

    Reba¡¯s joy faded as they parted ways, and she began to think about Mia¡¯s

    involvement. It added an extrayer ofplications to the problem. She needed to be more careful than ever before.

    When she returned to the apartment, Nichs was waiting for her, his smile genuine. ¡°How did the meeting go?¡±

    ¡°It was great. Cathy said Kelly rkson¡¯s show wants me,¡± Reba replied, her mind still racing.

    Nichs sensed her unease. ¡°You okay? That should be good news, but why do you look unhappy?¡±

    Reba looked up. She swiftly realized that she should only tell Nichs about work until she was certain that he had no involvement with Alicia. ¡°Yeah, just a lot to process. You know, I¡¯m a newbie!¡± She said it, forcing a smile. ¡°I¡¯m going to take a shower and clear my head.¡±

    Nichs nodded. ¡°Alright, take your time.¡±

    As Reba stood under the hot water, she tried to piece everything together. Why would Mia team up with Alicia and Dr. Theodore? What was their endgame? And more importantly, how did Nichs fit into all of this?

    ¡°Nic, I¡¯m craving Butterhalf Chocte Croissants, but the delivery service said they only serve dine¨Cin for today, so I¡¯m going toe down for a moment to buy them. The store is just <i>a </i>couple blocks away,¡± Reba grumbled as she towel¨Cdried her hair.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯lle with you!¡± Nichs eximed joyfully.

    Reba took a big breath. ¡°Nic, I¡¯m not underestimating you, but the queue will be very

    long, and I¡¯m afraid your head will be hurt again,¡± she stated sincerely, despite her doubts about Nichs¡® condition.

    +80%

    Nichs froze for a few moments before nockling gently. ¡°Thank you, Becky. ¡°I really appreciate your attention to me when no one else did,¡® she remarked, her eyes slightly. tearful, easing Reba¡¯s doubt.

    Reba waved her hand. ¡°You don¡¯t have to say that! You give me the chills like you¡¯re going to die tomorrow! I will be back with croissants and vegetable juice! You¡¯d better take a shower because we¡¯re going to have a movie marathon tonight!¡± She cried, removing the towel from her head.

    Nichs smiled slightly. ¡°Okay!¡±

    Reba dashed to her room, grabbed an oversized hoodie, and walked out of the apartment with her hair still half¨Cdamp.

    She felt miserable as she nced at the crowded pavement, knowing that she couldn¡¯t live a normal life like them.

    ¡°It¡¯s your choice. You could have let go of what happened to you and moved on, but you decided to punish Alicia, so enjoy the process!¡± yelled a voice inside her head.

    She took a long breath, unable to deny that the voice was correct. She scowled when she entered Butterhalf due to the long queue and stood at the back of the line, scrolling through her social media.

    She was about to give up after waiting in line for five minutes and still not getting her croissant when someone touched her gently on the shoulder. ¡°Double butter chocte croissants, I bought six for you. They limit purchases, so I couldn¡¯t buy more.¡±

    Reba turned, her body stiffening, as she saw Harvey standing in front of her. He looks extremely handsome in jeans and a dark turquoise turtleneck, which suits him perfectly. ¡°Are you stalking me? For real? How did you happen to be here?¡±

    Harvey took a deep breath. ¡°You may not know, but ever since you bought me this croissant a few years ago, I¡¯ve made it my favorite one.¡±

    Reba was taken aback, even ttered, until she remembered that Harvey had never loved her during their three years of marriage until their divorce. ¡°Don¡¯t make up stories just because you¡¯re worried about losing your toy. Take your croissants away; I don¡¯t mind if I have to wait for an hour,¡± she murmured, not looking at Harvey at all.

    <b>BUXI </b>

    ¡°Okay, then I¡¯ll queue with you,¡± Harvey said, taking a step forward and standing beside

    Reba.

    Reba scowled, ¡°Are you crazy?¡±

    Harvey shrugged his shoulders. ¡°I am not sure, but I had the same thought. Perhaps <b>I </b>have lost my mind.¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°Just because you have Specter behind your name doesn¡¯t mean you can get everything you want,¡± she muttered, folding her arms across her chest.

    ¡°Okay, I don¡¯t have time for this.¡± Harvey suddenly grabbed her hand and led her out of the store. ¡°What are you doing?¡± Reba yelled, unable to stop him because Harvey¡¯s body was much stronger than hers.

    Harvey led her into a little alleyway between two stores and entrapped her in his arms.

    ¡°I know that look in your eyes, Becky, and I know you still want the same thing,¡± he eximed, frantically.

    ¡°Bulshit! You know nothing about me! Even if you¡¯re right, it has nothing to do with you.¡± She hissed in anger. She could smell his signature perfume mixed with the aroma of the croissants he had dropped at her feet.

    ¡°Are you sure you didn¡¯t miss this?¡± Harvey¡¯s hand went under Reba¡¯s oversized sweater and touched her delicate skin.

    Reba held her breath and had difficulty fighting back. She could scream and use Harvey of rape, but she was fighting herself. Her body demanded Harvey more than anything else, as it always did.

    The mountains of beer crates lined up in front made no one dare enter the narrow alley. Reba¡¯s adrenaline was rushing, not only because of Harvey¡¯s touch but also because they were in a public spot where they could be caught at any moment.

    ¡°Nobody can have you, Becky. ¡°You are mine, right here and here¡­¡±

    Harvey kissed every inch of Reba¡¯s body, causing her eyes to close in resignation. She knew she should have shoved Harvey and run away, but she couldn¡¯t help herself. With a gasp, she drew Harvey into a burning kiss on his lips.

    ¡°May I?¡± Harvey whispered. Reba nodded with a tightened throat.

    @+<b>80</b>%

    They did it right there, in the heart of bustling New York. Reba¡¯s moans matched the

    sound of horns and music from street performers. Meanwhile, her cell phone. continued to vibrate, and four unanswered calls came in from Nichs.

 35

    Reba¡¯s mind was a jumbled mess of emotions and sensations as she stumbled out of the alleyway, leaving Harvey alone. She immediately altered her outfit, her mind spinning with guilt, perplexity<b>, </b>and an odd, twisted joy. How could she allow this to happen? How could she let Harvey take her back into his arms so easily?

    Her phone buzzed again, and she saw another missed call from Nichs. Panic washed over her. What was she going to say to him? How could she face him after what just happened? She knew they hadn¡¯tmitted to each other, but she was frightened of beingbeled as a cheap, or even worse, idiot, maybe because that sounded so true.

    With trembling hands, she answered the next call. ¡°Nic, I¡¯m so sorry. Someone almost robbed me and I-¡±

    ¡°Becky, are you okay?¡± Nichs¡¯s voice was filled with concern. ¡°You sound out of breath.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m all safe.¡± Reba lied, trying to steady her voice. ¡°Just¡­ New York things, you know? It¡¯s always crazy. I¡¯m on my way back now.¡±

    ¡°Okay, just be safe. I was getting worried.¡±

    Reba hung up and took a moment topose herself. She couldn¡¯t let Nichs suspect anything. She needed to push what had just happened with Harvey to the back of her mind, at least for now. She gripped the bag filled with croissants that Harvey had bought and walked back to the apartment, forcing herself to focus on her unsteady

    steps.

    When she finally walked through the door, Nichs greeted her with a relieved smile. ¡°There you are! I was starting to think you got lost.¡±

    Reba forced augh. ¡°Yeah, the queue was ridiculous. I got the croissants, but the juice store is already closed. Sorry.¡±

    Nichs got closer to her, checking her body. ¡°Are you hurt? You said you almost got robbed?¡± he asked, worried. Reba swallowed, nervous. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Falmost fell, but I¡¯m not hurt,¡± she answered, avoiding Nichs¡® gaze.

    They settled in for a movie marathon, but Reba¡¯s thoughts were far from the screen. She felt like she was walking on a tightrope, torn between her need for vengeance against Alicia, her newfound suspicions about Mia, and theplicated mess that

    Áã+<b>80</b>%

    Harvey had just brought into her life. Also, there was Nichs, who appeared to be earnest yet suspicious.

    As the movie yed, Reba found herself ncing at Nichs, trying to read hist expressions, and his bodynguage. Was he hiding something? Or was she just paranoid?

    ¡°Nic,¡± she said softly during a quiet moment in the movie. ¡°Can I ask you something?¡±

    Nichs looked over at her, his expression open and attentive. ¡°Of course, anything.¡±

    Reba hesitated, then decided to go for it. Do you ever feel like¡­ I don¡¯t know, like you¡¯re not telling me everything? Like there¡¯s something you¡¯re hiding?¡±

    Nichs¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Becky, what do you mean? I¡¯m not hiding anything from

    you.¡±

    ¡°I know, it¡¯s just¡­ I feel like there¡¯s so much happening, and I can¡¯t shake the feeling that something¡¯s off.¡±

    Nichs reached out and took her hand, squeezing it gently. ¡°I promise you, I¡¯m not hiding anything. I care about you so much, and I would never want to hurt you.¡±

    ¡°Um, no offense, but about the sleeping pills that time¡­¡±

    Nichs cleared his throat quietly. ¡°I understand; it was a mistake.¡± I lied to you because I was terrified you would leave me. I swear, I had no other motives, he stated solemnly.

    Reba smiled awkwardly. She knew Nichs would say that, and even if he was lying, he wouldn¡¯t possibly admit it.

    Nichs lifted an eyebrow. ¡°Is there anything left in your head that you want to ask? I¡¯ll answer all of it,¡± he inquired softly.

    Reba gulped hard. Of course, she had many questions in her mind, but all she did was shake her head and grin slightly. ¡°<i>No</i>, that¡¯s enough. Thanks¡­.¡±

    The next morning, she awoke feeling unsure. She could always see Harvey¡¯s face when she closed her eyes. She could feel his breath on her neck and his fingers on every inch of her skin. As if everything had been predetermined by the universe, her cell phone suddenly buzzed, and it was an iing text from Harvey.

    ¡°Last night was so amazing, I can¡¯t wait to do it all over again.¡±

    11-36 Wed, Aug 14

    +80%

    Reba felt a knot in her stomach. Deep down in her heart, she realized Harvey was probably simply too used to her body, for despite their loveless marriage, they had at fairly passionate bed rtionship.

    ¡°Ba, don¡¯t be silly! Ignore him,¡± he growled. She smacked her check lightly, hating herself.

    She hid her cell phone under her pillow so she wouldn¡¯t be tempted to contact Harvey. That day, she only had one endorsement recording appointment, after that, her schedule would bepletely empty.

    While she was getting ready, she heard a knock on her bedroom door. She opened the door hurriedly, keeping the towel wrapped over her body.

    ¡°Yes, Nic?¡± This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Um¡­¡± Nichs nced at Reba from head to toe before taking a step closer, causing her to back away uneasily. ¡°Nic?¡±

    Nichs gulped hard. ¡°Um, yes! I¡¯m heading to the office. Do you have any schedule today?¡± He asked in a voice strained with intense desire.

    Reba nodded, holding her towel to keep it from falling down. ¡°I¡¯m full until eight, but maybe I¡¯ll have dinner at home,¡± she said casually, hoping Nichs wouldn¡¯t think she had something nned for the day.

    Nichs nodded. ¡°Okay, see you at dinner?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, sure!¡± Reba took a step back and swiftly slipped behind the door.

    She peered through the hole in her bedroom door and saw Nichs still standing in front of <b>it </b>as <i>if </i>he was contemting something. Frightened, she quickly took out the pepper spray that she always had in her bag and clutched it hard.

    ¡°If he dares to touch me, I swear I¡¯ll make him blind¡­¡±

    *****

 BIT 36

    <b>+ </b>80%

    Reba grasped the pepper spray tightly as she reached out to lock the door, trying not to make a noise. When she began to quiver, Nichs suddenly turned around and left. She sighed in relief andy down on the bed.

    ¡°I can¡¯t keep living in fear like this¡­¡±

    ¡°What if he didn¡¯t have any bad intentions? Could it be that he just wanted <i>to </i>say something but decided to postpone it?¡® muttered a voice inside her head.

    She grasped her hair, confused. If she had followed her ego, she could have left Nichs right away and lived happily alone. But what if her suspicions were not true and Nichs does indeed have gliostoma? Would she ever be able to forgive herself for allowing him to die alone?

    Confused about what to do, she chose to hastily dress and leave the apartment as soon as possible to feel safe.

    She could have recorded the endorsement video in her room at Nichs¡¯s apartment, but her thoughts became worse every time she was there, so she decided to rent a tiny studio. She finished creating content in just two hours. After entrusting all her products and belongings to Cathy, she rushed to the hospital to see Doctor Theodore.

    ¡°I have made a reservation to consult with Doctor Theodore at two o¡¯clock this afternoon,¡± said Reba to the nurse on duty in the administration section.

    The nurse smiled. ¡°Alright, may I ask your full name and your date of birth?¡±

    Reba nodded, she mentioned Cathy¡¯s name and her date of birth. She knew that if she used her name, Doctor Theodore would refuse to see her. After the nurse verified her reservation, she sat peacefully in the waiting area, as if her visit to Doctor Theodore was solely for a medical consultation.

    Twenty minutester. ¡°Miss Catherine Wilson?¡±

    Reba rushed to her feet. Her steps felt light as she entered Doctor Theodore¡¯s room since she was so certain of what she believed in.

    Doctor Theodore said, ¡°Please sitfortably, Miss Wilson,¡± as he looked down and wrote something on the page.

    OX

    <b>O </b>

    DramaBox

    D

    Drama

    Drama sin fin, diversi¨®n sin fin con DramaBox

    4.7 FREE

    Google y INSTALL

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    O

    11:45 Thu, Aug 15 ra <i>1 </i>0

    ¡°Have you had lunch?¡± Doctor Theodore inquired, and his body stiffened as he noticed Reba standing in front of him, smiling calmly.

    ¡°Surprise surprise!¡± Reba eximed cheerfully. Her hand reached out to pull a chair and sit on it. Doctor Theodore immediately signaled the nurse to leave his room. ¡°Mrs. Specter? Is there a particr reason why you used a fake identity?¡± Doctor Theo asked, trying to intimidate Reba but failing because she didn¡¯t even blink when she looked at him.

    Reba snorted. She leaned forward and looked closely at Doctor Theo.

    ¡°Is there a reason you keep calling me Mrs. Specter? Did you forget that you had a major role in my divorce from Harvey Specter? Call me Reba Harper, okay? You¡¯re the one who gave me my maiden name, so don¡¯t make fun of me. You got it?¡± she growled.

    Reba could tell from the sight in his eyes that Doctor Theo had sumbed to her threat. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m not going to mince words; my body was fine after the ident, so there¡¯s nothing you need to check. So, let¡¯s get to the point! How much did Mia and Alicia pay you?¡± She inquired while ying with her nails, which were covered with fascinating nail art.

    ¡°I don¡¯tprehend what you¡¯re saying. If you don¡¯t have anything else to do, I¡¯ll call another patient,¡± replied Doctor Theo, reaching out to click the button at the end of his desk, but Reba gripped his palm hard, her eyes fiercely focused.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare! Are you sure you want to fight someone who has lost everything? To be honest, I¡¯m not terrified of death, so dying together isn¡¯t an issue for me. So answer my question! How much did Mia Specter and Alicia pay you?¡±

    ¡°Ma¡¯am¡­¡± Doctor Theo leaned forward, his eyes glinting frighteningly, causing Reba to tremble. ¡°Words without evidence are empty, so do whatever you want, and I¡¯ll call 911 and tell them you¡¯re bothering me,¡± he screamed, yanking Reba¡¯s grip away.

    Reba climbed to her feet.

    ¡°I know you and Mia know each other; it¡¯s just a matter of time before I can prove it! I can smell your downfall, Theodore, and I cannot wait to see it. There¡¯s no need to contact 911 because I¡¯ll get them here to handcuff you. Criminal doctor!¡±

    Doctor Theodore¡¯s face turned red instantly. He didn¡¯t say anything and just sat, clenching his fists tightly. If he wasn¡¯t in his doctor¡¯s office, he might have hit Reba

    O <b>DramaBox </b>

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    right on her face.

    Just as Reba was about to step out, Doctor Theo¡¯s cell phone rang on the table. Reba nced at it and saw Alicia¡¯s name there. She snorted withughter, ¡°At least change the contact name to Michael or Luke or something,¡± she mocked, and left the room, knowing she wouldn¡¯t get anything from Doctor Theodore¡¯s mouth.

    Reba clenched her fists. She was so enraged that her body shook uncontrobly. She went into Alicia¡¯s room and pushed the door open without hesitation.

    Alicia turned her head casually as if she were expecting Reba¡¯s presence.

    Reba snorted, ¡°I forgot! Surely that idiot doctor told you, huh? I mean your friend Reynold Theodore.¡±

    Alicia snorted and casually ate the pudding in her hand. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Theodore, who?¡± she asked, with the most repulsive smile Reba had ever seen.

    ¡°Miss Sluttly, you really think you won over me, huh?¡± Reba mumbled as she pulled up a chair next to Alicia¡¯s bed, took an apple, and bit it.

    Alicia shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but I have everything you no longer have, so consider that a win. At least Harvey will marry me soon,¡± she replied, disying the diamond ring on her ring finger.

    Reba screamed upughter, spilling the apple out of her mouth into the floor. ¡°You really don¡¯t know anything, do you? Poor Alicia¡­¡±

    Alicia chewed her pudding slowly, starting to pay attention to Reba, who was stillughing teasingly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare tough in front of me! Who do you think you are?¡± Alicia threw pudding at Reba, and just then the door opened, and Harvey stepped inside with a box of bread in his hand. He stared in surprise at Reba¡¯s blouse, which was dirty with pudding.

    ¡°Alicia, what the hell are you doing?¡± he snapped, looking at Alicia and Reba alternately.

    Suddenly, Alicia burst into tears. ¡°She threatened to kill me, Harvey. She¡¯s still obsessed with that unreal pregnancy,¡± Alicia lied so smoothly as if it were her specialty.

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    Harvey turned to Reba in surprise but there was no wording out of his mouth.

    Reba sat calmly, cleaning the pudding on her blouse with a tissue, unfazed by the situation. She walked over to Harvey, standing so close to him that Alicia almost jumped out of bed in a fit of jealousy.

    ¡°So, Harvey, does Alicia know about us?¡±

 BIT 37

    Harvey froze where he stood, no wordsing out of his mouth. He looked at Reba in disbelief as if he never expected such words woulde out of her mouth. Reba just smiled mysteriously, touched Harvey¡¯s chest and went out after throwing a triumphant nce at Alicia.

    ¡°What was that, Harvey?!<b>¡± </b>

    Reba was pleased to hear Alicia scream frantically at Harvey. She should have done it a long time ago; why was she so foolish and acting like an angel? She recognized that sometimes being wicked was necessary so that people would think twice about hurting her.

    ¡°That slut and her allies need to be punished and I¡¯ll do it with my own hands! <b>I </b>promise!¡® she muttered, clenching her fists.

    She checked her watch, and it showed four in the afternoon. She didn¡¯t want to return to Nichs¡® apartment because she¡¯d never felt safe there, especially after what happened earlier that day. Finally, she decided to clear her mind by walking around Fifth Avenue without any intention of shopping. She bought arge ss of bitter coffee and drank it while walking on the sidewalk.

    While stopping in front of the Tiffany store, she heard the horn honk multiple times, and someone yelled her name. She turned to see where the sound wasing from and saw Nichs waving from inside the car.

    Reba frowned in surprise. She looked around and wondered if she was being followed.

    ¡°Nic? Why are you suddenly here?¡± She didn¡¯t bother hiding her suspicion.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t look at your cellphone, did you? I told you I had a meeting at the X Cafe near here. Becky, do you honestly believe I am a criminal?¡± Nichs made a pathetic expression.

    Reba gave an uneasy smile, ¡°No, of course not! I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±

    Nichs smiled, patted her back gently. ¡°I don¡¯t have any ns after this; do you want to go home together? We can eat at my favorite vegetarian restaurant near the apartment,¡± he said enthusiastically.

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    Reba wanted to refuse, but her tongue was too tight to deliver it, so all she did was nod and get into Nichs¡® car, ignoring her fear.

    ¡°As far as I remember, your schedule was tight until 8 pm, so what were you doing there?¡± Nichs asked with his gaze straight at the road.

    Reba cleared her throat. ¡°The events were cancelled, so I had quite a lot of free tim she said casually. She didn¡¯t want Nichs to read her mind.

    Suddenly, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Cathy: ¡®I found something. Meet me at the usual ce.

    Reba nced at Nichs, then cleared her throat. ¡°Nic, Cathy needs to see me rigl away to set the schedule and everything. Can you take me to meet her? She is in a caf near here,¡±

    Nichs¡¯s face hardened. ¡°What about our dinner?¡± he asked tly.

    ¡°I¡¯ll cook something for us,¡± said Reba, pping her hands lightly. ¡°Really?¡± Nichol turned to look at her, holding back a smile. ¡°Yeah, why not? Home cooking is healthic right?¡± She tried to hard to sound sincere.

    ¡°Great!¡± He eximed as he drove his car to the cafe, where Cathy has been waiting fo Reba toe. ¡°Thanks, Nic! Don¡¯t forget to take your vitamins,¡± said Reba as sl jumped out of the car.

    Nichs smiled. ¡°See you at home, then?¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, see you at home Bye, Nic!¡± She waved, then walked away. He heart was thundering. She didn¡¯t know why, but she got more and more ufortab whenever Nichs was around her.

    She entered the cafe casually, and Cathy was already there. A folder of documents wa spread out on the table in front of her. Reba slid into the seat across from her. ¡°Wh did you find?¡± she asked impatiently.

    Cathy nced around, making sure no one was eavesdropping. ¡°Nichs doesn¡¯t have gliostoma. It¡¯s all a lie. And Doctor Theodore¡¯s involved in a massive fraud scheme

    Reba¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Cathy nodded. ¡°I dug deep. Financial records, emails, everything. Nichs is part of i too. They¡¯re all in it for the money.¡±

    Reba gulped. She put her hand on her chest and leaned back stiffly. ¡°Nichs? <i>O </i>God!¡± It felt like a bad dream for her. She didn¡¯t care if it was Mia or someone else, b not Nichs. They¡¯ve known each other since high school. How could Nichs hav the heart to do that behind her back?

    ¡°Cathy, are you sure Nichs¡® involved in all these scenes because of money? It doe sound like him. I mean, he owned aw firm muttered Reba in disbelief. ¡°They have bigger fish to fry, Becky. You¡¯re not the only target; it¡¯s Harvey. They even worl together with some bad guy from the DEA to make a false usation to put Harvey jail.¡±

    Reba felt a hard p on her face. She thought Nichs loved her, but it turned o he just used her for his own benefit.

    ¡°They could¡¯ve just killed me. It will make everything easier, isn¡¯t it?¡± muttered Reb confused. ¡°I mean, why would Nichs bother to move with me to LA? It doesn¡¯t m any sense.¡±

    Cathy bit her finger, thinking. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s truly in love with you, that¡¯s the reason you¡¯re still alive.¡± She said it tly but managed to make Reba re in surprise. made more sense.¡±

    ¡°But Becky, he¡¯s faking his cancer, and that doesn¡¯t sound like someone who¡¯s in lov said Cathy, looking at Reba seriously.

    Reba gulped nervously. ¡°What are you trying to say?¡± she demanded in a trembl voice.

    ¡°He¡¯s obsessed with you, more than anything in this world, and that¡¯s the reason wh he¡¯s willing to do anything so you wouldn¡¯t be together with Harvey,¡± said Cathy firm

    Reba felt the world spin faster. ¡°Cathy, I need to throw up!¡± N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    *****

 BIT 38

    <b>Chapter </b>38

    Reba vomited in the toilet till she thought all of the organs in her stomach were about to fall out. It would be simple if Nichs¡® primary desire was money, like Alicia, Mia, and Theodore. But that man was fascinated with her, willing to lie simply to stay together, which made her shudder and feel horrible.

    She gasped for air and rinsed her face with cold water, but she didn¡¯t feel any better.

    ¡°Here, wipe your face,¡± Cathy said, holding out a tissue to Reba, who was standing before the mirror like a living corpse. ¡°Cathy,¡± Reba said in a half¨Cwhisper. Cathy turned her head, raising one eyebrow rather than a question mark.

    ¡°When Alicia pushed me off the top of the steep marble stairs causing me to miscarry, do you think Nichs was involved too?¡± Reba inquired, hesitant to receive the answer she already knew.

    Cathy shook her head, ¡°None of us are aware of that; maybe yes, maybe no. So, what do you intend to do now? You couldn¡¯t possibly return to Nichs¡® apartment and endanger your life, right?¡±

    Reba shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m not sure what I¡¯m going to do anymore.¡± ¡°If everyone wants me to die, why am I still alive¡­?¡± N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Suddenly Cathy pped her hands in front of Reba¡¯s face. ¡°Wake up, Becky! That¡¯s not something that shoulde out of your mouth. We have to focus! Set your goal! Is knowing the truth enough or do you want them all to get their due punishment?¡± she babbled.

    Reba couldn¡¯t hold back the tears that just fell. She wiped it carelessly then looked at Cathy with a sad twitching face. ¡°I will make them all get the punishment they deserve, even worse!¡±

    Cathy smiled. ¡°That¡¯s my girl! Come on, let¡¯s go back to the table, we have to talk about what we n to do,¡± she said as she took Reba¡¯s hand and led her to leave the toilet.

    Reba clenched her fists. ¡°Cathy, we need to take them down by spreading all evidence!¡±

    ¡°All this evidence is not enough, Becky, we need other valid evidence but while looking for that evidence we have to make sure that you will be okay,¡± said Cathy seriously.

    +79%0

    Chajner as

    She leaned in, lowering her voice. ¡°I have a plin, but it requires you to go back to Nichs Pretend you believe him, get close, and gather more evidence. I know you¡¯re sick of it, but it¡¯s also the only way to keep you alive because Alicia or Theo will not harm you without Nichs¡® consent.¡±

    Reba swallowed hard. The thought of being close to Nichs again made her skin crawl. But she had no choice. ¡°Alright,¡± she said finally. ¡°I¡¯ll do it. But we need to move fast. If they suspect anything, it could get worse.¡±

    Cathy nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve got your back, Becky. Well bring them down together, okay?¡±

    ¡°Oh, Cathy, thank you! Appointing you as my manager was the best decision I¡¯ve ever made!¡± Reba eximed, hugging Cathy firmly. Reba exited the caf¨¦ with determination burning in her chest. She would no longer be the victim. It was time to fight back, and she would stop at nothing to ensure justice was served.

    She walked to Nichs¡® Apartment since she needed a moment to absorb everything. She knew Nichs would easily read her mind if she appeared before him with a trembling body like that. And suddenly, the rain was falling heavily. She dashed to the shop¡¯s terrace, seeking protection. She stood up, holding her freezing body, and then tears streamed down her cheeks, leaving her sobbing alone.

    ¡°Hey, you can take shelter inside, the wind is very strong out here,¡± said a man carrying an umbre. Reba looked up, ¡°Thanks, but no need, my clothes are already wet, I don¡¯t want to dirty your floor,¡± she said while wiping her tears.

    The man with the umbre tilted his head slightly, concern etched on his face. ¡°You look like you could use some warmth and a ce <i>to </i>sit down. Please,e inside. I own the ce, so I don¡¯t mind the floor getting a little wet.¡±

    Reba hesitated for a moment but then nodded. ¡°Thank you,¡± she murmured, following the man into the small, cozy caf¨¦. The warmth inside enveloped her, and she felt a tiny bit offort seeping into her bones.

    The man led her to a booth near the back, away from the prying eyes of other patrons. ¡°I¡¯ll bring you a hot drink,¡± he said gently before disappearing behind the counter.

    Reba sat down, hugging herself tightly, still shivering from the cold rain and the emotional turmoil inside her. A few minutester, the man returned with a steaming cup of tea. ¡°Here, this should help,¡± he said, cing the cup in front of her.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Reba said again, wrapping her hands around the warm cup. She took a

    fer throat art ca

    The men ket down across from her, his eyes the way And you are**

    ¡°Reba¡± she replied, trying to offer a small

    ¡°Nice to meet you, Reba. I don¡¯t mean to rough time out there. Is there anything I can

    Reba shook her head, her eyes welling up just trying to figure out how to deal with som me*

    Jacob nodded, not pushing for more informa even if it¡¯s just to a stranger.¡±

    Reba hesitated but then found herself pot everything but she hid their true identity. Sh danger she felt lurking around every corner.

    When she finished, he leaned back, his brow with, Reba. It¡¯s no wonder you¡¯re feeling o determined. You can get through this. Trust r

    Reba took a deep breath, feeling a bit light me, Becky, and thank you, Jacob. I appreciate

    Jacob smiled warmly. ¡°Anytime. And if you ne you¡¯re always wee here.¡±

    Reba nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope t her. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind. Thank you.¡±

    As she left the caf¨¦, the rain had slowed to a d purpose. She had to face Nichs, gather the involved. But she wasn¡¯t alone. She had Cathy

    When she reached Nichs¡¯s apartment build herself for what was toe. She put a smile door.

    ¡°Becky! I didn¡¯t expect you back so soon,¡± Nich

    ¡°Yeah. My head was so full so I decided to walk. Reba replied, stepping inside. ¡°And I realized I can¡¯t do this alone. I want to believe you, Nichs. I want to help you and I want you to help me

    Nichs¡¯s eyes softened, and he pulled her into a hug. ¡°Thank you, Becky. That was the best thing I¡¯ve heard today. We¡¯re gonna go through this together. I promise.¡±

    Reba hugged him back, her mind racing. She had to y the part perfectly to gather the evidence and bring everyone to justice. For now, she would pretend, but soon, the truth woulde to light, and she would make sure that every single one of them paid for their crimes.

    ¡°I love you, Becky¡­

    Reba felt like throwing up when she heard those words but she smiled instead. The war had just begun.

 BIT 39

    <b>Chapter </b>39

    ¡°I have something to tell you,¡± said Reba as she stepped out of her bedroom with a towel wrapping her head. Nichs looked up ¡°Yes?¡±

    She plopped down on the couch, sitting beside Nichs. ¡°I lied to you.¡±

    Nichs frowned. ¡°I¡¯m listening,¡± he said, looking at Reba intently.

    ¡°I was not attending any events earlier today, I went to the hospital instead,¡± she said, ncing at Nichs, learning his reaction. She needed to make him believe that she trusted him. Even though she knew he must have learned that fact from Alicia and Theodore, hearing it from her would be something special that would trigger him to trust her more.

    ¡°What? Hospital? For what? Were you sick? Why didn¡¯t you tell me, I coulde with you,¡± said Nichs, showing his worried face. Reba felt like smacking him right on his face because his acting was surreal.

    ¡°No, um, I met Doctor Theo and Alicia,¡± she stated firmly.

    Nichs red. ¡°Did you get something?¡± he asked, moving closer to her. Reba shrugged, ¡°No, they deny it but I made Alicia angry, I told her I have something to do with Harvey behind her back and she was totally furious!¡± she said excitedly. Nichs raised his eyebrow, ¡°You enjoyed it, do you?¡±

    ¡°Is that even a question?¡± She leaned back, hiding her thumping heart.

    Nichs cleared his throat softly. ¡°So, there was nothing happened between you and Harvey?¡±

    Reba held herself from snorting. She put on an innocent face and shook her head, ¡°Of course not! I would never do that! Me and Harvey, we¡¯ve done. There is nothing left between us. I would never forgive him for letting Alicia ruin my life,¡± she lied and she knew Nichs ate the bait.

    ¡°That¡¯s my girl!¡± He caressed her hair gently. His face was so sincere that Reba almost thought he was not acting.

    ¡°Um, so what are you doing to do with Alicia and Doctor Theo? Are you going to give up on them? Or?¡±

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    Reba let out a long sigh. ¡°I don¡¯t think I would sacrifice my new life for that. I¡¯m just gonna put that scar on the back of my head and move on¡± she lied again. Deep inside her heart, she wanted to pour her true feelings and let Nichs know how furious she was but she decided to hold it for the better result, to put them down altogether.

    Nichs¡¯s face softened, and he pulled her into a gentle hug. ¡°That¡¯s a wise decision, Becky. It¡¯s time to focus on your future and leave the past behind¡±

    Reba forced a smile, hugging him back. ¡°My future? I don¡¯t mind to call it our now,¡± she said casually.

    Nichs chuckled. ¡°Our then.¡± He looked at her deeply as if he intended to kiss her but Reba pretended to cough violently, distracting his attention. ¡°I¡¯ll get you some water,¡± said Nichs as he got up to grab a ss of water from the kitchen.

    A man as good as Nichs, why? Why did he have to get involved with Alicia? What made him so stupid?

    ¡°Here,¡± said Nichs, holding out the ss of water to Reba who immediately smiled when she took it.

    ¡°Nic, can I ask you something?¡± Reba asked as she put the ss back on the table.

    ¡°Of course, ask anything,¡± answered Nichs sitting cross¨Clegged in front of her.

    ¡°Do you really love me?¡± Reba put on her best innocent face, trying to make Nichs fall into her trap. Nichs smiled, ¡°More than love, I can¡¯t even describe it.¡± Reba took both of Nichs¡® hands and held them tightly. ¡°We might really be together as you wish but sorry, I put conditions on that¡­¡±

    Nichs frowned angrily, showing his true nature. ¡°What conditions?¡±

    ¡°I want you to do treatment, chemotherapy, or whatever. I don¡¯t want you to leave me when we¡¯ve only been together for a short time,¡± she said with teary eyes. She didn¡¯t know how she managed to have such good acting.

    Nichs¡® face immediately changed from anger to surprise. ¡°It¡¯s not something that is difficult to grant but for me, there are a lot of considerations,¡± he answered wisely,

    Reba felt a surge of hope. ¡°Please, Nichs, I don¡¯t want to lose you,¡± she pleaded, squeezing his hands.

    Nichs sighed heavily. ¡°Alright, Becky. I¡¯ll think about it. For you.¡±

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    Reba smiled warmly, hiding her relief. ¡°Thank you, Nic. It means a lot to me.¡±

    And she did it. The question about chemo dropped his mood to the bottom and made Reba feel safe because he didn¡¯t approach her at all.

    As days passed, Reba maintained her charade, gradually collecting bits and pieces c information from Nichs. She noted every suspicious conversation, every meeting h had with Alicia and Theodore. She kept Cathy updated, and they strategized their next moves carefully.

    Reba decided to examine Nichs¡® office one evening while he was not around. She had always been leery about doing this, knowing how careful and obsessive Nichs could be, but she required more proof.

    She found a locked drawer in his desk. After some searching, she located the key hidden under a stack of papers. Her heart pounded as she opened it, revealing a folder marked Confidential.¡± Inside were documents detailing financial transactions,

    Just as she was about to take photos of the documents, she heard the front door open. Panicking, she quickly put everything back in ce and locked the drawer. She hurriedly returned to the living room, trying to appear casual.

    ¡°Hey, Nic,¡± she greeted him with a forced smile. ¡°How was your day?¡±

    Nichs nced at her, his eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°It was fine. What about you?¡±

    ¡°Oh, you know, just the usual. Content making and photoshoot,¡± she lied smoothly, holding up a book she had grabbed from the coffee table.

    Nichs studied her for a moment before nodding. ¡°Alright. I¡¯m going to take a shower.¡±

    Reba watched him walk away, her heart still racing. She had to be more careful. But she had what she needed. Now, it was time to move to the next phase of their n.

    The next day, she met Cathy at the cafe. She handed over the photos she had taken with her phone. ¡°This should be enough to start with. We need to get these to authorities.¡± Cathy nodded, taking the photos. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it. You just focus on staying safe and keeping up the act.¡±

    §¿§ç

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    Reba hugged Cathy tightly, ¡°Thank you. Be careful.¡±

    While on her way home, she received an iing message from Nics.

    <b>+</b>79%

    0

    ¡®I¡¯ll prepare a lovely meal and find some decent wine. Put on something lovely; it¡¯s time to take our rtionship to the next level.¡±

    Reba was stopped in her tracks; should she run ore instead?

    <b>+</b>79%

 BIT 40

    Reba¡¯s mind raced as she stared at the message from Nichs. The words ¡°next level¡± sent a chill down her spine. She knew that whatever Nichs had nned, it would be a critical moment in their charade. She took a deep breath and typed a quick reply.

    ¡°Sounds perfect. See you soon.¡±

    She had no choice but to go. Running now would ruin everything she and Cathy had worked for. She needed to keep Nichs¡¯s trust, no matter how dangerous it felt.

    Reba hurried home and changed into a sleek ck dress<b>, </b>simple yet elegant. She applied light makeup, her hands trembling slightly. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of dread that settled in the pit of her stomach.

    What¡¯s ridiculous was that when she saw her reflection in the mirror what appeared in her head was Harvey¡¯s face. Since the confrontation she had at the hospital with Alicia and Harvey days ago, she had never heard anything from him again. He didn¡¯t text her or call her at all but she couldn¡¯t lie to herself that she missed him so much.

    When she arrived at Nichs¡¯s ce, the lights were dimmed, and soft music yed in the background. Nichs greeted her at the door, his smile warm and weing.

    ¡°You look stunning,¡± he said, leading her inside. The table was set with candles, and the aroma of a delicious meal filled the air.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Reba replied, forcing a smile. She had to keep herposure, no matter what.

    As they sat down to eat, Nichs poured them both a ss of wine. He seemed rxed, almost too rxed. Reba watched him carefully, trying to gauge his intentions.

    ¡°This is lovely, Nic,¡± she said, taking a sip of her wine. ¡°You really went all out.¡±

    ¡°I wanted tonight to be special,¡± Nichs replied, reaching across the table to take her hand. ¡°We¡¯ve been through a lot, and I think it¡¯s time we move forward, together.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart pounded. She had to y her part perfectly. ¡°I feel the same way,¡± she said softly. ¡°I¡¯m ready for whateveres next.¡±

    And the thing she feared most happened. When suddenly Nichs kissed her gently.

    She knew it should be easy to do, but every time she remembered how obsessed Nichs was with her, she became really disgusted.

    As Nichs¡® hands began to move down to her neck, Reba silently prayed that something would happen. She didn¡¯t want her body to be tarnished by a crazy person like Nichs. And her prayer was answered. Suddenly there was loud banging on the door as if their apartment was being raided.

    Nichs removed his body from Reba, shocked, ¡°I¡¯ll see whoes,¡± he said tensely.

    Minutester, suddenly;

    ¡°Mr. Bet, you¡¯re under arrest for the coboration you did with your group to impoverish and slender Mr. Harvey Specter and injure his wife who is now his ex¨Cwife, Reba Harper.¡±

    Nichs looked at Reba in disbelief but he didn¡¯t say anything.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock as she watched him being led away in handcuffs. The room was filled with chaos as officers swarmed the apartment, searching for evidence. She stood frozen, her mind racing to process what was happening.

    An officer approached her, his expression was stern yet concerned. ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you alright?¡±

    Reba nodded slowly, still in a daze. ¡°Yes, I¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll need toe with us for questioning,¡± the officer said gently. ¡°We need to understand your involvement in all of this.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart pounded as she followed the officer out of the apartment. The cold night air hit her, snapping her out of her trance. She nced back at Nichs, who was being pushed into a police car, his eyes filled with a mix of anger and betrayal.

    As she sat in the back of another police car, her thoughts raced. This was the moment she and Cathy had been working towards, but it felt surreal. She couldn¡¯t believe it was finally happening. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    At the police station, Reba was taken to a small interrogation room. She sat alone, waiting anxiously. After what felt like an eternity, the door opened, and Cathy walked in, apanied by a detective.

    ¡°Becky,¡± Cathy said, her face a mixture of relief and concern. ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    <b>11:47 </b>Thu, Aug 15 W

    Reba nodded, feeling a wave of emotion wash over her. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Cathy. What¡¯s going on?¡±

    The detective, a stern¨Clooking man in his fifties, sat down across from her. ¡°Ms. Harper, I¡¯m Detective Harris. We need to ask you some questions about Nichs Bet, Alicia Fox, and Doctor Theodore. We¡¯ve been monitoring him for some time, but your involvement is crucial to understanding the full picture.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, nodding. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you everything I know.¡±

    For the next few hours, Reba recounted her experiences with Nichs, Alicia, and Theodore. She exined her role in gathering evidence and how she had tried to maintain Nichs¡¯s trust while secretly working to bring him down. Detective Harris listened intently, asionally asking questions to rify details.

    By the time they finished, Reba felt drained but relieved. She had finally told the truth, and the weight of the secrets she had been carrying began to lift.

    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Harper,¡± Detective Harris said, standing up. ¡°Your cooperation has been invaluable. We¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re protected as we continue this investigation.¡± Cathy walked over and hugged Reba tightly. ¡°You did it, Becky. It¡¯s over. They arrested Alicia, Mia, and Theodore too.¡±

    Reba clung to Cathy, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I couldn¡¯t have done it without you.¡±

    As they left the police station, Reba felt a sense of hope for the first time in a long while. The nightmare with Nichs was over, and she could finally begin to rebuild her life.

    Suddenly a car stopped in front of her and someone got out from inside. Reba looked up,

    her body stiffening instantly. ¡°Harvey?¡±

    He walked quickly towards her, hugging her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you have to go through all this,¡± he said sincerely.

    Reba was silent, she didn¡¯t know what to do. In the end, she just cried without hugging Harvey back because the wounds he had left were so deep and he wasn¡¯t sure that they could start over.

    Harvey stepped back, his eyes filled with regret and pain as he looked at Reba. He gently wiped away her tears, his touch hesitant.

    *****

    11:47 Thu, Aug 15 M W

    ¡°Becky, I know I hurt you,¡± he began, his voice But I need you to know that I¡¯ve never stoppe

    Reba looked away, her emotions a tumulti simple. What you did¡­ it broke me. I don¡¯t kr

    Harvey nodded, his expression somber. ¡°I un me right away. I just want a chance to make tl

    Aug 15

 BIT 41

    Reba took a deep breath. If she followed her desires, she knew she would have to ept Harvey back and give him a second chance, but fortunately, she was sane enough at that time. She shook her head slowly, ¡°Before Alicia appeared and ruined everything, I had been fighting for your love for three years of our marriage and couldn¡¯t get it. So I know quite well when it¡¯s time to stop.¡±

    Harvey red in surprise. ¡°But, Becky¡­¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°Do you love me?¡± Reba asked matter¨Cof¨Cfactly.

    Harvey was silent, he stared at him for a long time as if the question was difficult to

    answer.

    Reba snorted, smiling bitterly. ¡°You still haven¡¯t learned what love is, have you? I have to go, I¡¯m sorry about your sister. Bye, Harvey.¡±

    She dragged her heavy legs towards Nichs¡® apartment which was a bit messy after the NYPD raid. She sat on the sofa in the living room, remembering how she and Nichs used to spend time together and then burst into tears. She really regretted it because, behind all his lies, Nichs was actually a man who really cared about her.

    While she was packing her things, she found an iing email from Lucy.

    ¡®I don¡¯t work for The Specters anymore. For a while, I¡¯ll relocate to a secluded location because Alicia despises me and I¡¯m scared she¡¯ll exact revenge on me. Ma¡¯am, take good care of yourself. I hope you discover your happiness. Thank you so much, Lucy!

    Her feelings were much better after she left Nichs¡® apartment. She looked for an empty apartment and found one in a location that was familiar to her.

    ¡°Reba? I mean Becky? Do you remember me?¡± said a man who had just finished putting up a banner in front of his cafe.

    Reba frowned, and then her eyes widened. ¡°Oh, God! Jacob? Right?¡±

    Jacob smiled and nodded lightly. His eyes immediately fell on Reba¡¯s tworge suitcases. ¡°Where are you going?¡± he asked curiously.

    Reba pointed at the top of Jacob¡¯s cafe. ¡°I¡¯m moving upstairs,¡± she said casually.

    Jacob was surprised. ¡°Oh hello, neighbor! Come on, I¡¯ll help you, I also happen to live in

    O

    <b>C </b>

    one of the units above,¡± he said as he pulled Reba¡¯s suitcase. ¡°Thanks, Jacob!¡± Reba eximed after they arrived in front of Reba¡¯s new apartment unit.

    ¡°No worries! By the way, you were all over the news! When you were crying here that night I didn¡¯t even recognize who you were. By the way, I¡¯m sorry about what happened to you, I hope you don¡¯t lose your hope,¡± said Jacob sincerely. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba smiled. ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you, thanks. See you!¡±

    She closed the door and then sat on the floor. To be honest, she was not prepared to hear others discuss her troubles. Some of them focused on the ident and miscarriage she had, while others wondered how she was able to marry Harvey in the first ce. They began discussing how she was a materialdy who was eager to marry without love, which deeply pained her.

    She locked herself up in her apartment for several days because she was afraid that journalists would look for her. She also deactivated her cell phone, losing several big deals. Everything was too much for her so she became overwhelmed.

    One evening, as she was finishing up a video shoot, her phone buzzed with a call from Cathy.

    ¡°Hey, Becky,¡± Cathy said cheerfully. ¡°How are you holding up?¡±

    Reba smiled, grateful for her friend¡¯s unwavering support. ¡°I¡¯m doing okay, Cathy. Just trying to stay busy.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear,¡± Cathy replied. ¡°I was thinking, maybe we should go out for dinner tonight? Just the two of us. It might be good to get out and rx a bit.¡±

    Reba hesitated for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Yeah, I think I¡¯d like that.¡±

    They met at Jacob¡¯s Cafe. As they enjoyed their meal, Reba felt a sense of normalcy returning. Sheughed and chatted with Cathy, feeling a bit lighter than she had in a long time.

    Cathy took a deep breath. ¡°Is Harvey still trying to contact you?¡± she asked carefully. Reba shrugged her shoulders. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I changed my number,¡± she said with a nk face. She always felt miserable every time someone mentioned that name. Her chest seemed to be filled with messy feelings. She wanted him but also felt guilty for putting his sister in prison. Even after it was all over, she didn¡¯t feel at ease.

    <i>75</i>%

    THU, PAUG TO IF

    ¡°I know it¡¯s difficult to really live life as if everything is fine, but this concerns your career, I have to make sure you still want to work or not?¡±

    ¡°I might need to take a break for a few weeks ande back in a better mood. Can you take care of everything for me? I¡¯ll just be here, maybe sitting by the window like this will be my new habit.¡±

    Cathy reached across the table and squeezed Reba¡¯s hand. ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll handle everything. Take all the time you need. You¡¯ve been through so much, it¡¯s only fair to give yourself a break.¡±

    Reba nodded gratefully, feeling the weight of her recent experiences slowly lifting. After dinner, Cathy walked her back to her apartment. As they stood outside her door, Reba felt a twinge of uncertainty.

    ¡°Thanks for everything, Cathy. I really appreciate it,¡± Reba said softly.

    ¡°Anytime, Becky. Remember, you¡¯re not alone. If you need anything, just call me,¡± Cathy replied with a warm smile.

    Reba took a deep breath as Cathy exited her apartment. The silence was both soothing and disturbing. She decided to take a shower and let the warm water wash away the memories of her inner struggle. She then covered herself in a warm robe and sat by the window, staring out at the city lights.

    Weeks turned into days, and Reba gradually began to findfort in her new routine. She went to Jacob¡¯s Cafe, where the friendly atmosphere and regr patrons made her feelfortable. With his constant willingness to listen, Jacob grew to be a close friend.

    One afternoon, as Reba sat by the window of the cafe, sipping hertte, she noticed a figure standing outside.

    It was Harvey.

    He looked hesitant, unsure whether to enter or not. Reba¡¯s heart raced, but she steeled herself, determined to face him with the strength she had built over the past few weeks.

    Harvey finally walked in, his eyes searching for her. When he spotted her, he approached with hope and regret in his face.

    ¡°Reba, can we talk?¡± Harvey asked, his voice filled with uncertainty.

    <b>3/4 </b>

    1:48 Thu, Aug 15 IM

    Reba nodded, gesturing to the empty cha looking at her with guilt and longing.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking a lot about what you said, means. And you¡¯re right, I didn¡¯t understand realize how much you mean to me.¡±

    Reba listened, her emotions a turbulent n I can¡¯t just forget everything that happened. 1

    ¡°I know, and I don¡¯t expect you to forgive me to try and make things right. To show you tha Reba looked into his eyes, searching for th don¡¯t know if I can trust you again, Harvey. It

    ¡°I understand,¡± Harvey replied, his voice stead know that I¡¯m here, and I¡¯m willing to do wha Reba sighed, feeling the weight of the pas Harvey. For now, I need to focus on myself. E Harvey nodded while standing up slowly.

    Suddenly, ¡°Becky! I¡¯ve put your jacket back in appeared from the side door of the cafe.

    Harvey¡¯s face hardened instantly. He doesn¡¯t his.

    *****

    Ìï

 BIT 42

    Harvey walked closer to Reba, causing Jacob to frown in confusion. He looked Berween Reba and Harvey. ¡°Becky, is there a problem?¡± he whispered.

    ¡°You¡¯re the problem.¡± Harvey said coldly, staring at Jacob.

    ¡°Harvey, what¡¯s wrong with you? He is my friend for God¡¯s sake!¡± Reba snapped

    tably. Jacob, I think Erica is looking for you,¡± she said, pointing at the cashier. ¡°Really? Jacob was unsure but he left anyway. Reba didn¡¯t want Jacob to hear their ridiculous conversation.

    <b>¡°</b>Why did he go into your apartment? Do you two live together?¡± Harvey asked irritably.

    Reba frowned. ¡°It¡¯s none of youness. Look at you! A few minutes ago, you were soposed, and now you look like a jealous teenager,¡± she said, grabbing her bag, ready to leave.

    But Harvey grabbed her hand. ¡°Where are you going? You can¡¯t avoid me like this!¡±

    Reba yanked her hand away, her eyes zing with anger. ¡°I¡¯m going home, Harvey. And you have no right to stop me.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s expression softened, the irritation giving way to desperation. ¡°Please, Becky. I just want to talk. I need <i>to </i>understand what¡¯s going on.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to keep herposure. ¡°What¡¯s going on is that I¡¯ve moved on. You can¡¯t just waltz back into my life and expect things to be the same. I¡¯ve wasted my time and I don¡¯t want to do that

    at again.¡±

    Jacob, who had been watching the exchange from the counter, approached cautiously. ¡°Becky, do you need help?¡± he asked, his voice calm but firm.

    Reba gave him a grateful look. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Jacob. I can handle this.¡±

    Harvey nced at Jacob, his jaw tightening. ¡°I don¡¯t need you interfering,¡± he snapped.

    Jacob stood his ground, his eyes locked on Harvey. ¡°I¡¯m not interfering. I¡¯m making sure Becky is okay. You¡¯re the one causing a scene.¡±

    Reba stepped between them, her voice cold. ¡°Enough, both of you. Harvey, <b>if </b>you really care about me, you¡¯ll respect my decision and leave me alone.¡±

    D DramaBox

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    <b>Harvey¡¯s </b>shoulders sagged<b>, </b>the fight draining out of him. ¡°I just wanted to talk,¡± he <b>murmured</b>.

    <b>¡°</b><b>We¡¯ve </b>talked enough.¡± Reba replied, her tone softer but still firm. ¡°Now, please go.¡±

    Harvey looked at her for a long moment, then nodded reluctantly. ¡°Alright, Becky. I¡¯ll go. But this isn¡¯t over.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath as she watched Harvey walk away. She felt a pang of longing and confusion but knew she needed to stay strong.

    Jacob; I¡¯ll go upstairs,¡± she said and left the caf¨¦. Suddenly, a question crossed her mind. She quickly half¨Cran after Harvey and intercepted him, surprising him.

    ¡°You changed your mind?¡± he asked, his eyes sparkling with hope.

    Reba shook her head, her breath still short. She swallowed hard, then looked up Harvey¡¯s eyes. ¡°I want to ask about Mia. Is she okay?¡±

    Harvey looked surprised. He gazed at Reba, trying to understand what was going through her mind. ¡°You still think about the person involved in the crime you experienced? Do you really care, or are you just curious?¡± he asked tly.

    into This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba waved her hand dismissively. ¡°You know what? You don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to,¡± she said irritably. She turned to return to her apartment, but Harvey pulled her tightly, making her fall into his arms.

    They looked at each other in silence, emotions intensifying.

    Reba hurriedly pulled away, clearing her throat nervously.

    Harvey scratched his forehead, looking awkward. ¡°Mia is in the same prison as Alicia. If she gets out sooner than she should, it must be my parents¡® doing. I had no involvement. I¡¯m as angry as you are. Even though she¡¯s my sister, that doesn¡¯t change the fact that she¡¯s guilty.¡±

    Reba nodded slowly<b>, </b>processing Harvey¡¯s words. ¡°I¡¯m d to hear you¡¯re not involved in that mess,¡± she said quietly. ¡°But it doesn¡¯t change what happened, Harvey. It doesn¡¯t erase the pain.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s shoulders sagged with the weight of his regret. ¡°I know, Becky. I know.¡±

    Reba nodded, then turned and walked slowly back to her apartment. She knew Jacob

    <b>Co </b>

    kis just <b>my </b><b>mother </b>dont <b>worry</b>, he replied, <b>trying </b>to calm her down.

    No, Im <b>going </b>to <b>stay </b>here<b>, </b>no more running away,¡± said Reba, even though she was <b>wded </b><b>to </b>death.

    After taking a deep breath, she slowly opened the door. Victoria immediately pushed <b>her </b>way in and pped Reba hard across the cheek, drawing fresh blood from the corner of her lips. Reba trembled, holding back tears.

    Harvey quickly ran to Reba, shielding her from his mother, who was still seething <b>with </b>anger. ¡°Mom! Stop it! STOP!¡± Harvey shouted in despair, unable to strike his own mother. He stood there, protecting Reba, bing her shield, and endured his mother¡¯s punches and blows.

    ¡°How can you be so shameless! You threw my beloved daughter in prison, and now you¡¯re trying to manipte my son again? You¡¯re even worse than Alicia, you should know that!¡± Victoria raged, her voice filled with madness.

    ¡°Mom, enough! Enough! Can you stop ming others for our own sins? I was the one who sought out Becky. I was the one who asked her toe back. So control yourself, or you know what will happen,¡± Harvey threatened shakily.

    ¡°WHAT WILL HAPPEN? HUH? ARE YOU TRYING TO THREATEN ME?¡± barked Victoria, still trying to reach Reba and p her.

    ¡°I have the authority to manage grandfather¡¯s inheritance. I can remove anyone from the list of heirs at any time,¡± Harvey said coldly. He knew his mother could always be swayed by money, and that was something he was never proud of.

    Victoria red, her eyes nearly popping out. You¡¯ll see, Becky! You¡¯ll never be able to live in peace! I¡¯ll find a thousand Alicias to hurt you!¡± she hissed hatefully. She spat on Reba¡¯s rug and walked away with her chin held high.

    Reba broke into tears. ¡°This is a mistake¡­

    beced into his arms, shielding her from the door <b>where </b><b>his </b><b>moth </b>

    She trembled, her rears soaking into Harvey¡¯s shirt. He held ing rage and guilt <b>boiling </b>inside him. He should <b>have </b>anticipated his ther¡¯s reaction <b>and </b>protected Reba better,

    Tih so <b>sorry</b><b>, </b>Becky<b>, </b>Harvey whispered into her hair. ¡°This is all my fault¡±

    Rebeces shook her head, pulling back to look at hirn. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Harvey. Y <b>mother </b>has always been like this. But I can¡¯t do this anymore. I can¡¯t be the reasor you¡¯re torn between your family and me.¡±

    Harvey cupped her face gently, his eyes filled with determination. ¡°You¡¯re not the reason, Becky. This is my decision. I want to be with you. We can make this work matter what my family thinks. I¡¯m so sick of them!¡±

    Reba searched his eyes, looking for any sign of doubt, but found none. She no slowly, her heart heavy with the weight of their situation. ¡°I don¡¯t know. It feels s wrong. You just came back, and I don¡¯t know if this is too fast!¡±

    She sat limply on the sofa, never imagining that a bad day could be so terrible th there was no room for her to smile. Harvey looked deeply at her, then held both hands. ¡°I know, but I¡¯ve never been more sure than I am today. Are you with me you give it a chance?¡±

    Reba gulped, unable to lie to herself. She nodded, but no words came out of mouth.

    ¡°I need you <i>to </i>be strong, okay? The real adventure is just about to begin. Everyt will be fine. You can do it, can¡¯t you?¡± Harvey asked. He wiped her tears and kiss lips gently. ¡°Let¡¯s get married again,¡± he said firmly.

    Reba stared in surprise. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s get married,¡± Harvey said, his voice steady. ¡°Let¡¯s just get away from all th bullshit. Start fresh somewhere new. Just you and me. I don¡¯t care about my m anymore, I just want to be happy. I¡¯ve never fallen in love like I love you. I don¡® waste my time dealing with my crazy family. I¡¯m so done.¡±

    Reba blinked, processing his words. ¡°What Harvey, are you serious? We jus again, had sex, and now you want to get married? Have you lost your mind?¡±

    DramaBox

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    INS

    No<b>, </b>I¡¯m not! I¡¯ar dead serious<b>, </b><b>he </b><b>replied</b>, <b>his </b>grip or her hands <b>tightening</b>. ¡°We <b>can </b>leave <b>tonight</b><b>. </b>I have <b>some </b><b>money </b>saved up, <b>enough </b>to get us started. We¡¯ll find <b>a </b>ce where <b>ito </b><b>one </b><b>knows </b>us, <b>where </b>we <b>can </b>be <b>happy </b>

    ¡°But what about our jobs? Our friends? Everything we¡¯ve built here?¡± Reba asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

    ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Harvey assured her. ¡°We¡¯ll find new jobs and make new friends. <b>As </b>long as we¡¯re together, that¡¯s all that matters.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, considering his proposal. It was a drastic, impulsive step, but maybe it was the only way to escape the toxic influence of Harvey¡¯s family. She nodded slowly, a small spark of hope igniting in her chest. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s do it.¡±

    It was the bravest and most impulsive decision she had ever made in her whole life.

    Harvey¡¯s face lit up with relief and joy. He pulled her into a tight embrace, kissing her forehead. ¡°I promise you, Becky, everything¡¯s going to be alright. We¡¯ll make it through this together. Our bad history won¡¯t be repeated. I¡¯ll make sure of that.¡±

    They spent the next few hours packing essentials and making ns. Harvey called a friend to borrow his car, exining that they needed to leave town for a while. By midnight, they were on the road, leaving their old lives behind.

    As they drove through the night, the tension slowly cased. Harvey kept ncing at Reba, reassuring her with smiles and gentle touches. They talked about their dreams, their hopes for the future, and the life they wanted to build together. It felt like an adventure, an exciting journey into the unknown. They kept the topic of Alicia and Nichs behind. They didn¡¯t want to open that wound again.

    ¡°Where should we go first?¡± Reba asked, gazing out at the dark highway stretching before them.

    ¡°How about the coast?¡± Harvey suggested. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to live by the ocean.¡±

    Reba smiled, imagining the salty breeze and the sound of waves crashing on the shore. ¡°The coast sounds perfect.¡±

    They drove through the night, stopping only for gas and quick snacks. After several hours, they reached a small coastal town named Orien Point at the ind¡¯s edge that seemed plucked from a postcard. Quaint houses with colorful facades lined the streets, and the smell of the sea filled the air.

    <b>2/3 </b>

    ex

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    47780

    ¡°This lon: Harvey said<b>, </b>pulling into a motel parking lot. ¡°Our new beginning¡±

    They checked <b>into </b><b>a </b>modest <b>room</b>, exhausted but exhrated. After a quick shower and a change of clothes, they set out to explore their new surroundings. The town was <b>charming</b>, with friendly locals and a rxed atmosphere. It felt like the perfect ce to

    start <b>over</b>.

    Reba couldn¡¯t believe what she had just done. ¡°I need to call Cathy and tell her everything. What happened today is beyond my imagination,¡± she said, half¨Cchoking.

    ¡°Do you regret it? We can go back to the city if you want. I don¡¯t want to hold you here unless you want to stay.¡±

    Reba let out a long sigh. ¡°Of course, I want to stay. It¡¯s just that it happened in less than twenty¨Cfour hours! It¡¯s insane, and honestly, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re going to change your mind and leave me like before,¡± she said, half¨Ccrying.

    Harvey cupped her face and kissed her lips gently. ¡°That won¡¯t happen. I¡¯ll stay by your side. I promise!¡± he said earnestly. No one knew, but he had been tired of dealing with his crazy family for a long time. After his grandfather died, he felt like he was losing hope, and that¡¯s why he didn¡¯t understand how to love someone properly.

    They were just about to lie down to rest while watching the news when suddenly¡­

    -Victoria Specter had a heart attack and was rushed to the hospital. Sources said she had it after arguing with her only son, Harvey, and his current girlfriend, who happened to be his ex¨Cwife, the influencer Becky Blush¨Coff. Click the link in the bio for the full cover story.-

    Harvey and Reba stared at each other, shocked.

    0

 BIT 43

    <b>was </b>watching her from inside the cafe, but she deliberately pretended not to see him, wanting to be alone.

    Back in her apartment, Reba sank into the couch, feeling emotionally drained. The past few weeks had been a whirlwind, but she was determined to move forward. She picked up her phone and sent a quick text to Cathy. She needed to work, and she needed distractions.

    ¡°Cathy, I haven¡¯t said this, but thank you for always being there for me. Let¡¯s catch up again soon.¡±

    A few momentster, Cathy replied. ¡°Absolutely! Anytime you need me, I¡¯m here.¡±

    Reba smiled, feelingforted by her friend¡¯s support. She nced around her apartment, her eyesnding on the window where she often sat and reflected. The city lights twinkled outside, reminding her that life continued to move forward, no matter how challenging things might be.

    ¡°Everything will be alright, Becky. You¡¯ve done your best, she thought, patting her back three times. She felt much better after that.

    The next morning, Reba woke up feeling better. She decided it was time to focus on her career again and take back control of her life. She reached out to her clients, letting them know she was ready to get back to work. The responses were overwhelmingly positive, and Reba felt a sense of excitement about the future.

    One afternoon, as she was working on a project in her apartment, there was a knock on the door. She opened it to find Jacob standing there with a small potted nt in his hands.

    E

    ¡°Hey, I thought you could use a little greenery in here,¡± he said with a warm smile. Reba chuckled, epting the nt. ¡°Thanks, Jacob. That¡¯s really sweet of you.¡± Jacob shrugged modestly. ¡°I just thought it might brighten up your ce a bit. And if you ever need a break, you¡¯re always wee at the caf¨¦. I haven¡¯t seen you in a while.¡± Reba smiled. ¡°I appreciate that. You¡¯ve been a great friend, Jacob. Thank you.¡± Jacob scratched the back of his neck. ¡°Um, I have two opera tickets for tomorrow. Would you like to go with me?¡±

    Reba fell silent, suddenly remembering Nichs. She was afraid Jacob would

    C

    Bersone vibareseit with her like Nichole hart

    Rebecen cleared by that ¡°Um. I haven¡¯t checked my schedule yet. I¡¯ll let you know as soon lean that k

    Iscob smiled Crest. Have a good day!¡±

    She was jud about to close the door when an uninvited guest appeared. Charming as

    ¡°Harvey, how did you know I lived here?¡±

    Reberc with lobating as if he <b>hadit </b>seen her in Havels by may Thund strange, but over the years of our

    vekten world to you.¡± he said in his deep cold voice.

    ??

    ??? ??y ||

    lium obtriped a bow She Bit expected to see him at her door so soon.

    da sem ser? Why do you keeping back? I told you I needed time. We can¡¯t be topalihej neid, 91¡¯s templescribe the mid, ging to keep her voice steady.

    We need to cut inde Harvey and as he stepped in before Reba even invited him.

    talk

    Between gulped he could sense where this meeting was heading, but she didn¡¯t bother stopping it bis use the wanted the same thing. As soon as the door clicked shut, Harvey took a step closer to her. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about you, he confessed, his voice rew with emotion.

    Reba¡¯s breath caught in her throat. ¡°Harvey, we can¡¯t keep doing this. It¡¯s not healthy for either of us.¡±

    know,¡± he whispered, reaching out to touch her cheek. ¡°But I can¡¯t help it. I still love you. Becky

    His touch sent a shiver down her spine, and she found herself leaning into his hand. The walls she had built around her heart began to crumble as she looked into his eyes. ¡°Harvey, L¡­¡±

    Before she could finish her sentence, Harvey closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a desperate kiss. All their buried needs and emotions rose to the surface. Reba wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened.

    They tumbled onto the floor, releasing the longing they had held back for months. Reba held her breath as Harvey removed her clothes one by one. She had never fe more aroused than she did at that moment. She moved eagerly, contradicting her  that she needed time to embrace Harvey, as her body had different demands.

    Minutester, theyy hugging each other on the couch, breathing heavily. Harvey brushed a strand of hair from Reba¡¯s face, his eyes filled with tenderness. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much,¡± he murmured.

    Reba¡¯s heart swelled with emotion. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too,¡± she choked out, tears

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    downer face.

    teats mixed with a great sense of relief af il release<b>. </b>They had crossed a <b>line </b><b>that </b>

    <b>them </b>back together.

    Harvey¡¯s fingertips traced the contours of her face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything<b>, </b>Becky, for <b>the </b><b>in </b>and <b>the </b>confusion. 1-

    ¡°We <b>have </b>so much to discuss. But right now, I just want to be with you<b>.</b><b>¡± </b>

    He nodded and drew her closer. Theyy there silently, the weight of their history <b>gradually </b>lightening as they held each other. The gentle intimacy soothed their broken hearts<b>, </b>and each touch held the promise of healing.

    Reba eventually looked up at Harvey. ¡°We can¡¯t ignore the problems we face. There¡¯s so much to deal with.¡± N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    ¡°I know,¡± Harvey replied, his voice steady. ¡°But we can face them together. No more running away.¡±

    Reba couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. ¡°No more running away<i>, </i>but would you still love me even if all of your family hates me? Mia, your parents, and-¡±

    ¡°Ssh, let¡¯s take it one step at a time. We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Harvey said softly.

    Reba smiled with a hint of hope in her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right. It¡¯s a baby step, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    Just as they were about to delve into the issues they faced before and after their divorce, the doorbell rang loudly. Reba frowned, hesitant to open the door, assuming it was Jacob. However, the bell kept ringing incessantly, They exchanged nces and hurriedly checked the monitor.

    ¡°It¡¯s your mother,¡± whispered Reba as she saw Victoria, furiously pressing the bell several times.

    Reba¡¯s heart raced. She wasn¡¯t scared, but she had that trauma in her head.

    ¡°Oh my God, should we open it?¡± Reba asked, confused.

    ¡°Just go to your room,¡± said Harvey.

    ¡°Are you

    sure?¡± asked Reba doubtfully.

 BIT 44

    C he said, pointing at the cashier. ¡°Really? Jacob was unsure but he left anyway. Reba didn¡¯t want Jacob to hear their ridiculous conversation.

    <b>¡°</b>Why did he go into your apartment? Do you two live together?¡± Harvey asked irritably.

    Reba frowned. ¡°It¡¯s none of youness. Look at you! A few minutes ago, you were soposed, and now you look like a jealous teenager,¡± she said, grabbing her bag, ready to leave.

    But Harvey grabbed her hand. ¡°Where are you going? You can¡¯t avoid me like this!¡±

    Reba yanked her hand away, her eyes zing with anger. ¡°I¡¯m going home, Harvey. And you have no right to stop me.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s expression softened, the irritation giving way to desperation. ¡°Please, Becky. I just want to talk. I need <i>to </i>understand what¡¯s going on.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to keep herposure. ¡°What¡¯s going on is that I¡¯ve moved on. You can¡¯t just waltz back into my life and expect things to be the same. I¡¯ve wasted my time and I don¡¯t want to do that

    at again.¡±

    Jacob, who had been watching the exchange from the counter, approached cautiously. ¡°Becky, do you need help?¡± he asked, his voice calm but firm.

    Reba gave him a grateful look. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Jacob. I can handle this.¡±

    Harvey nced at Jacob, his jaw tightening. ¡°I don¡¯t need you interfering,¡± he snapped.

    Jacob stood his ground, his eyes locked on Harvey. ¡°I¡¯m not interfering. I¡¯m making sure Becky is okay. You¡¯re the one causing a scene.¡±

    Reba stepped between them, her voice cold. ¡°Enough, both of you. Harvey, <b>if </b>you really care about me, you¡¯ll respect my decision and leave me alone.¡±

    <b>Harvey¡¯s </b>shoulders sagged<b>, </b>the fight draining out of him. ¡°I just wanted to talk,¡± he <b>murmured</b>.

    <b>¡°</b><b>We¡¯ve </b>talked enough.¡± Reba replied, her tone softer but still firm. ¡°Now, please go.¡±

    Harvey looked at her for a long moment, then nodded reluctantly. ¡°Alright, Becky. I¡¯ll go. But this isn¡¯t over.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath as she watched Harvey walk away. She felt a pang of longing and confusion but knew she needed to stay strong.

    Jacob; I¡¯ll go upstairs,¡± she said and left the caf¨¦. Suddenly, a question crossed her mind. She quickly half¨Cran after Harvey and intercepted him, surprising him.

    ¡°You changed your mind?¡± he asked, his eyes sparkling with hope.

    Reba shook her head, her breath still short. She swallowed hard, then looked up Harvey¡¯s eyes. ¡°I want to ask about Mia. Is she okay?¡±

    Harvey looked surprised. He gazed at Reba, trying to understand what was going through her mind. ¡°You still think about the person involved in the crime you experienced? Do you really care, or are you just curious?¡± he asked tly.

    into

    Reba waved her hand dismissively. ¡°You know what? You don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to,¡± she said irritably. She turned to return to her apartment, but Harvey pulled her tightly, making her fall into his arms.

    They looked at each other in silence, emotions intensifying.

    Reba hurriedly pulled away, clearing her throat nervously.

    Harvey scratched his forehead, looking awkward. ¡°Mia is in the same prison as Alicia. If she gets out sooner than she should, it must be my parents¡® doing. I had no involvement. I¡¯m as angry as you are. Even though she¡¯s my sister, that doesn¡¯t change the fact that she¡¯s guilty.¡±

    Reba nodded slowly<b>, </b>processing Harvey¡¯s words. ¡°I¡¯m d to hear you¡¯re not involved in that mess,¡± she said quietly. ¡°But it doesn¡¯t change what happened, Harvey. It doesn¡¯t erase the pain.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s shoulders sagged with the weight of his regret. ¡°I know, Becky. I know.¡±

    Reba nodded, then turned and walked slowly back to her apartment. She knew Jacob

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    <b>was </b>watching her from inside the cafe, but she deliberately pretended not to see him, wanting to be alone.

    Back in her apartment, Reba sank into the couch, feeling emotionally drained. The past few weeks had been a whirlwind, but she was determined to move forward. She picked up her phone and sent a quick text to Cathy. She needed to work, and she needed distractions.

    ¡°Cathy, I haven¡¯t said this, but thank you for always being there for me. Let¡¯s catch up again soon.¡±

    A few momentster, Cathy replied. ¡°Absolutely! Anytime you need me, I¡¯m here.¡±

    Reba smiled, feelingforted by her friend¡¯s support. She nced around her apartment, her eyesnding on the window where she often sat and reflected. The city lights twinkled outside, reminding her that life continued to move forward, no matter how challenging things might be.

    ¡°Everything will be alright, Becky. You¡¯ve done your best, she thought, patting her back three times. She felt much better after that.

    The next morning, Reba woke up feeling better. She decided it was time to focus on her career again and take back control of her life. She reached out to her clients, letting them know she was ready to get back to work. The responses were overwhelmingly positive, and Reba felt a sense of excitement about the future.

    One afternoon, as she was working on a project in her apartment, there was a knock on the door. She opened it to find Jacob standing there with a small potted nt in his hands.

    E

    ¡°Hey, I thought you could use a little greenery in here,¡± he said with a warm smile. Reba chuckled, epting the nt. ¡°Thanks, Jacob. That¡¯s really sweet of you.¡± Jacob shrugged modestly. ¡°I just thought it might brighten up your ce a bit. And if you ever need a break, you¡¯re always wee at the caf¨¦. I haven¡¯t seen you in a while.¡± Reba smiled. ¡°I appreciate that. You¡¯ve been a great friend, Jacob. Thank you.¡± Jacob scratched the back of his neck. ¡°Um, I have two opera tickets for tomorrow. Would you like to go with me?¡±

    Reba fell silent, suddenly remembering Nichs. She was afraid Jacob would

    C

    Bersone vibareseit with her like Nichole hart

    Rebecen cleared by that ¡°Um. I haven¡¯t checked my schedule yet. I¡¯ll let you know as soon lean that k

    Iscob smiled Crest. Have a good day!¡±

    She was jud about to close the door when an uninvited guest appeared. Charming as

    ¡°Harvey, how did you know I lived here?¡±

    Reberc with lobating as if he <b>hadit </b>seen her in Havels by may Thund strange, but over the years of our

    vekten world to you.¡± he said in his deep cold voice.

    ??

    ??? ??y ||

    lium obtriped a bow She Bit expected to see him at her door so soon.

    da sem ser? Why do you keeping back? I told you I needed time. We can¡¯t be topalihej neid, 91¡¯s templescribe the mid, ging to keep her voice steady.

    We need to cut inde Harvey and as he stepped in before Reba even invited him.

    talk

    Between gulped he could sense where this meeting was heading, but she didn¡¯t bother stopping it bis use the wanted the same thing. As soon as the door clicked shut, Harvey took a step closer to her. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about you, he confessed, his voice rew with emotion.

    Reba¡¯s breath caught in her throat. ¡°Harvey, we can¡¯t keep doing this. It¡¯s not healthy for either of us.¡±

    know,¡± he whispered, reaching out to touch her cheek. ¡°But I can¡¯t help it. I still love you. Becky

    His touch sent a shiver down her spine, and she found herself leaning into his hand. The walls she had built around her heart began to crumble as she looked into his eyes. ¡°Harvey, L¡­¡±

    Before she could finish her sentence, Harvey closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a desperate kiss. All their buried needs and emotions rose to the surface. Reba wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened.

    They tumbled onto the floor, releasing the longing they had held back for months. Reba held her breath as Harvey removed her clothes one by one. She had never fe more aroused than she did at that moment. She moved eagerly, contradicting her  that she needed time to embrace Harvey, as her body had different demands.

    Minutester, theyy hugging each other on the couch, breathing heavily. Harvey brushed a strand of hair from Reba¡¯s face, his eyes filled with tenderness. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much,¡± he murmured.

    Reba¡¯s heart swelled with emotion. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too,¡± she choked out, tears

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    downer face.

    teats mixed with a great sense of relief af il release<b>. </b>They had crossed a <b>line </b><b>that </b>

    <b>them </b>back together.

    Harvey¡¯s fingertips traced the contours of her face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything<b>, </b>Becky, for <b>the </b><b>in </b>and <b>the </b>confusion. 1-

    ¡°We <b>have </b>so much to discuss. But right now, I just want to be with you<b>.</b><b>¡± </b>

    He nodded and drew her closer. Theyy there silently, the weight of their history <b>gradually </b>lightening as they held each other. The gentle intimacy soothed their broken hearts<b>, </b>and each touch held the promise of healing.

    Reba eventually looked up at Harvey. ¡°We can¡¯t ignore the problems we face. There¡¯s so much to deal with.¡±

    ¡°I know,¡± Harvey replied, his voice steady. ¡°But we can face them together. No more running away.¡±

    Reba couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. ¡°No more running away<i>, </i>but would you still love me even if all of your family hates me? Mia, your parents, and-¡±

    ¡°Ssh, let¡¯s take it one step at a time. We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Harvey said softly.

    Reba smiled with a hint of hope in her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right. It¡¯s a baby step, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    Just as they were about to delve into the issues they faced before and after their divorce, the doorbell rang loudly. Reba frowned, hesitant to open the door, assuming it was Jacob. However, the bell kept ringing incessantly, They exchanged nces and hurriedly checked the monitor.

    ¡°It¡¯s your mother,¡± whispered Reba as she saw Victoria, furiously pressing the bell several times.

    Reba¡¯s heart raced. She wasn¡¯t scared, but she had that trauma in her head.

    ¡°Oh my God, should we open it?¡± Reba asked, confused.

    ¡°Just go to your room,¡± said Harvey.

    ¡°Are you

    sure?¡± asked Reba doubtfully.

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    kis just <b>my </b><b>mother </b>dont <b>worry</b>, he replied, <b>trying </b>to calm her down.

    No, Im <b>going </b>to <b>stay </b>here<b>, </b>no more running away,¡± said Reba, even though she was <b>wded </b><b>to </b>death.

    After taking a deep breath, she slowly opened the door. Victoria immediately pushed <b>her </b>way in and pped Reba hard across the cheek, drawing fresh blood from the corner of her lips. Reba trembled, holding back tears.

    Harvey quickly ran to Reba, shielding her from his mother, who was still seething <b>with </b>anger. ¡°Mom! Stop it! STOP!¡± Harvey shouted in despair, unable to strike his own mother. He stood there, protecting Reba, bing her shield, and endured his mother¡¯s punches and blows.

    ¡°How can you be so shameless! You threw my beloved daughter in prison, and now you¡¯re trying to manipte my son again? You¡¯re even worse than Alicia, you should know that!¡± Victoria raged, her voice filled with madness.

    ¡°Mom, enough! Enough! Can you stop ming others for our own sins? I was the one who sought out Becky. I was the one who asked her toe back. So control yourself, or you know what will happen,¡± Harvey threatened shakily.

    ¡°WHAT WILL HAPPEN? HUH? ARE YOU TRYING TO THREATEN ME?¡± barked Victoria, still trying to reach Reba and p her.

    ¡°I have the authority to manage grandfather¡¯s inheritance. I can remove anyone from the list of heirs at any time,¡± Harvey said coldly. He knew his mother could always be swayed by money, and that was something he was never proud of.

    Victoria red, her eyes nearly popping out. You¡¯ll see, Becky! You¡¯ll never be able to live in peace! I¡¯ll find a thousand Alicias to hurt you!¡± she hissed hatefully. She spat on Reba¡¯s rug and walked away with her chin held high.

    Reba broke into tears. ¡°This is a mistake¡­

    COMMENT

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    beced into his arms, shielding her from the door <b>where </b><b>his </b><b>moth </b>

    She trembled, her rears soaking into Harvey¡¯s shirt. He held ing rage and guilt <b>boiling </b>inside him. He should <b>have </b>anticipated his ther¡¯s reaction <b>and </b>protected Reba better,

    Tih so <b>sorry</b><b>, </b>Becky<b>, </b>Harvey whispered into her hair. ¡°This is all my fault¡±

    Rebeces shook her head, pulling back to look at hirn. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Harvey. Y <b>mother </b>has always been like this. But I can¡¯t do this anymore. I can¡¯t be the reasor you¡¯re torn between your family and me.¡±

    Harvey cupped her face gently, his eyes filled with determination. ¡°You¡¯re not the reason, Becky. This is my decision. I want to be with you. We can make this work matter what my family thinks. I¡¯m so sick of them!¡±

    Reba searched his eyes, looking for any sign of doubt, but found none. She no slowly, her heart heavy with the weight of their situation. ¡°I don¡¯t know. It feels s wrong. You just came back, and I don¡¯t know if this is too fast!¡±

    She sat limply on the sofa, never imagining that a bad day could be so terrible th there was no room for her to smile. Harvey looked deeply at her, then held both hands. ¡°I know, but I¡¯ve never been more sure than I am today. Are you with me you give it a chance?¡±

    Reba gulped, unable to lie to herself. She nodded, but no words came out of mouth.

    ¡°I need you <i>to </i>be strong, okay? The real adventure is just about to begin. Everyt will be fine. You can do it, can¡¯t you?¡± Harvey asked. He wiped her tears and kiss lips gently. ¡°Let¡¯s get married again,¡± he said firmly.

    Reba stared in surprise. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s get married,¡± Harvey said, his voice steady. ¡°Let¡¯s just get away from all th bullshit. Start fresh somewhere new. Just you and me. I don¡¯t care about my m anymore, I just want to be happy. I¡¯ve never fallen in love like I love you. I don¡® waste my time dealing with my crazy family. I¡¯m so done.¡±

    Reba blinked, processing his words. ¡°What Harvey, are you serious? We jus again, had sex, and now you want to get married? Have you lost your mind?¡±

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    No<b>, </b>I¡¯m not! I¡¯ar dead serious<b>, </b><b>he </b><b>replied</b>, <b>his </b>grip or her hands <b>tightening</b>. ¡°We <b>can </b>leave <b>tonight</b><b>. </b>I have <b>some </b><b>money </b>saved up, <b>enough </b>to get us started. We¡¯ll find <b>a </b>ce where <b>ito </b><b>one </b><b>knows </b>us, <b>where </b>we <b>can </b>be <b>happy </b>

    ¡°But what about our jobs? Our friends? Everything we¡¯ve built here?¡± Reba asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

    ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Harvey assured her. ¡°We¡¯ll find new jobs and make new friends. <b>As </b>long as we¡¯re together, that¡¯s all that matters.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, considering his proposal. It was a drastic, impulsive step, but maybe it was the only way to escape the toxic influence of Harvey¡¯s family. She nodded slowly, a small spark of hope igniting in her chest. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s do it.¡±

    It was the bravest and most impulsive decision she had ever made in her whole life.

    Harvey¡¯s face lit up with relief and joy. He pulled her into a tight embrace, kissing her forehead. ¡°I promise you, Becky, everything¡¯s going to be alright. We¡¯ll make it through this together. Our bad history won¡¯t be repeated. I¡¯ll make sure of that.¡±

    They spent the next few hours packing essentials and making ns. Harvey called a friend to borrow his car, exining that they needed to leave town for a while. By midnight, they were on the road, leaving their old lives behind.

    As they drove through the night, the tension slowly cased. Harvey kept ncing at Reba, reassuring her with smiles and gentle touches. They talked about their dreams, their hopes for the future, and the life they wanted to build together. It felt like an adventure, an exciting journey into the unknown. They kept the topic of Alicia and Nichs behind. They didn¡¯t want to open that wound again.

    ¡°Where should we go first?¡± Reba asked, gazing out at the dark highway stretching before them.

    ¡°How about the coast?¡± Harvey suggested. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to live by the ocean.¡±

    Reba smiled, imagining the salty breeze and the sound of waves crashing on the shore. ¡°The coast sounds perfect.¡± Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    They drove through the night, stopping only for gas and quick snacks. After several hours, they reached a small coastal town named Orien Point at the ind¡¯s edge that seemed plucked from a postcard. Quaint houses with colorful facades lined the streets, and the smell of the sea filled the air.

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    ¡°This lon: Harvey said<b>, </b>pulling into a motel parking lot. ¡°Our new beginning¡±

    They checked <b>into </b><b>a </b>modest <b>room</b>, exhausted but exhrated. After a quick shower and a change of clothes, they set out to explore their new surroundings. The town was <b>charming</b>, with friendly locals and a rxed atmosphere. It felt like the perfect ce to

    start <b>over</b>.

    Reba couldn¡¯t believe what she had just done. ¡°I need to call Cathy and tell her everything. What happened today is beyond my imagination,¡± she said, half¨Cchoking.

    ¡°Do you regret it? We can go back to the city if you want. I don¡¯t want to hold you here unless you want to stay.¡±

    Reba let out a long sigh. ¡°Of course, I want to stay. It¡¯s just that it happened in less than twenty¨Cfour hours! It¡¯s insane, and honestly, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re going to change your mind and leave me like before,¡± she said, half¨Ccrying.

    Harvey cupped her face and kissed her lips gently. ¡°That won¡¯t happen. I¡¯ll stay by your side. I promise!¡± he said earnestly. No one knew, but he had been tired of dealing with his crazy family for a long time. After his grandfather died, he felt like he was losing hope, and that¡¯s why he didn¡¯t understand how to love someone properly.

    They were just about to lie down to rest while watching the news when suddenly¡­

    -Victoria Specter had a heart attack and was rushed to the hospital. Sources said she had it after arguing with her only son, Harvey, and his current girlfriend, who happened to be his ex¨Cwife, the influencer Becky Blush¨Coff. Click the link in the bio for the full cover story.-

    Harvey and Reba stared at each other, shocked.

    0

 BIT 45

    Harver¡¯s Jow tightened, his <b>eyes </b><b>narrowing</b>. This can¡¯t be real. She¡¯s just maniptin us, trying to get vis back there, he said, his voiceced with frustration. Deep down, I was worried about his mother. No matter how bad she was, a mother was still a moth N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Reba¡¯s <b>heart </b>raced. ¡®Harvey, she¡¯s your mother. What if she really is sick? Can we take that <b>risk</b><b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    He sighed, rubbing his temples. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ she¡¯s always been like this, Becky. Ever sin was a kid, she¡¯s used her health as a weapon to control me.¡±

    Reba ced a hand on his arm, her eyes pleading. ¡°I know, but we need to be sur Let¡¯s call the hospital and find out if it¡¯s true.

    Harvey nodded, reluctantly picking up his phone. He dialed the number for the hospital, his hand trembling slightly as he waited for someone to answer. When a n finally picked up, he exined the situation.

    ¡°Yes, Mrs. Specter is here. She was admitted with a heart attack,¡± the nurse confirme ¡°She¡¯s stable now, but it was serious<b>.</b><b>¡± </b>

    Harvey¡¯s shoulders slumped, guilt washing over him. ¡°Thank you,¡± he muttered, hanging up.

    Reba squeezed his hand. ¡°We should go back, Harvey. At least to make sure she¡® okay. It¡¯s just one hour away from here to Long Ind.¡±

    He nodded, resigned. ¡°You¡¯re right. But she¡¯s ying us, I swear, I¡¯m done for go They packed their bags again, the excitement of their escape evaporating into a clo of anxiety and dread. The drive back to Long Ind City was quiet, each lost in the own thoughts. Harvey¡¯s mind raced with memories of his mother¡¯s maniptions while Reba worried about the future they had so hastily nned.

    As they pulled into the hospital parking lot, Harvey took a deep breath. ¡°No matter happens in there, I love you, Becky. We¡¯re in this together. Just don¡¯t listen to what my mother tells you, okay?¡±

    She nodded, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. ¡°I know what I should hear and I shouldn¡¯t. I love you too, Harvey.¡±

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    the sterile smell of the hospital hit <b>them </b>immediately. They found Victoria¡¯s

    doar slightly ajar. Harvey hesitated then pushed it open. He found Victoria ng in bed, looking pale and fragile. When she <b>saw </b>Harvey and Reba, her eyes. kened with <b>surprise </b>and something that might have been relief.

    Harvey <b>you </b>care, she said weakly.

    Harvey walked over to her bedside, Reba following him.

    How are you feeling. Mom?¡± he asked, trying to keep his voice neutral.

    Victoria sighed, tears welling up in her eyes. I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see you again. I¡¯m so sorry for everything. Harvey. I just¡­ I didn¡¯t know how to let go.¡±

    Reba watched the interaction, feeling a mix of sympathy and suspicion. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Victoria¡¯s apology was too convenient, too perfectly timed.

    ¡°Mom, this has to stop, okay?¡± Harvey said, his voice firm. ¡°You can¡¯t keep trying to control my life. Reba and I are together, and that¡¯s not going to change. You need to ept that.¡±

    Victoria nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. ¡°I know, I know. I just want you to be happy, Harvey

    Harvey nced at Reba, who gave him a supportive nod. ¡°We¡¯ll give you some time to rest, Mom. We¡¯ll talk moreter.¡±

    They left the room, walking down the corridor in silence. Once they were outside, Harvey let out a long breath. ¡°What do you think?¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. It felt real, but it also felt like a charade. I¡¯m not

    sure.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Harvey agreed. ¡°We¡¯ll give her the benefit of the doubt for now. But we¡¯re not staying longer than necessary.¡±

    They visited Victoria at the hospital over the next few days while in Long Ind City, making ns for their future. Harvey struggled to juggle hisplicated emotions for his mother and his love for Reba.

    One evening, as they were discussing their ns over dinner, Harvey¡¯s phone buzzed with a text message. He nced at it and froze, his face draining of color.

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    le becer H?feed and reached for <b>his </b>hand. What is <b>it</b><b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    He handed <b>her </b><b>the </b><b>phone</b><b>, </b>his voice shaking. It¡¯s a message from an unknown number. Mary¡¯s, You can¡¯t <b>run </b>from your past. It¡¯s all catching up to you.¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened as she read the message. ¡°What does that mean?¡±

    Harvey shook <b>his </b>head, fear creeping into his voice. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But it sounds like someone knows about us leaving the city. Someone who doesn¡¯t want us to be happy.¡± Reba¡¯s mind raced. ¡°Who could it be? Your mother?¡±

    Harvey frowned, considering. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. This feels different. More sinister.¡±

    They sat in silence, the weight of the mysterious message hanging over them. Just as they were about to discuss it further, Harvey¡¯s phone buzzed again. This time, it was a picture message.

    Reba¡¯s hand flew to her mouth as she saw the image. It was a photo of them, taken through the window of the motel where they had stayed the night they left the city.

    Harvey¡¯s face turned ashen. ¡°Someone¡¯s been following us.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. ¡°What are we going to do, Harvey?¡±

    He swallowed hard, his mind racing. ¡°We need to find out who¡¯s behind this. And we need to be careful. This isn¡¯t just about my mother anymore. Someone else is involved, and they¡¯re not going to let us go easily.

    They stared at the picture in silence, knowing their decision to get back together was not approved by many people.

    Harvey took Reba¡¯s hand, his grip firm. ¡°No matter what happens, we face it together.¡±

    Reba nodded, then gulped nervously. ¡°Do you think it could be Nichs or Alicia? But they¡¯re in jail¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but there¡¯s always a possibility!

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 BIT 46

    Viperia¡¯s <b>condition </b><b>Improved</b>, <b>Reba </b>and <b>Harvey </b>decided to visit <b>Josh</b>, <b>Harvey¡¯s </b>

    <b>vvy </b>guy who <b>had </b><b>always </b>been good at digging up Information. Josh

    creed <b>to </b><b>meet </b><b>them </b>at a diner on the way to Orient Point,

    Are <b>you </b>sure <b>Josh </b>can be trusted? Reba asked hesitantly.

    Harvey nodded, ¡°He doesn¡¯t care about anything in the world except anime,¡± he said, handing a milkshake to Reba. ¡°Drink this, will make you feel better,¡± he added. gently.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Harvey, I¡¯m curious, why does Mia hate me so much?¡± she asked. suddenly.

    Harvey nearly choked on the iced coffee he was drinking. He took a long breath. ¡°I don¡¯t know for sure, but I think they would hate any woman myte grandfather chose for me. My dad, my mom, and Mia¨Cthey¡¯ve always had their own world, and I¡¯ve always felt disconnected from them emotionally. So, I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t answer your question.¡±

    could see that, but I never dared to ask,¡± Reba said, reaching out to hold Harvey¡¯s hand tightly.

    The sound of the diner¡¯s bell brought them back to reality. Josh walked in, scanning the room until he spotted them. He hurried over his expression serious.

    ¡°Hey, man,¡± Josh greeted, sliding into the booth. ¡°What¡¯s going on? You sounded urgent on the phone.¡±

    ¡°Josh! Yeah, kind of. Um, Josh, this is Becky-

    ¡°Of course, I know she¡¯s Becky; she¡¯s your wife, right? Oops, sorry, I forgot you guys divorced,¡± Josh babbled, covering his mouth with both hands.

    Harvey¡¯s face turned red instantly. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll get straight to the point. Becky and I, we¡¯re being terrorized.¡±

    Harvey filled him in on everything¨Cthe hospital, the mysterious message, and the photo. Josh listened intently, his brow furrowing deeper with each detail. ¡°That¡¯s messed up,¡± Josh said, shaking his head. ¡°But I can help. Let me see that phone.¡±

    Harvey handed over his phone, and Josh immediately started working his magic. He

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    Umped away at <b>the </b><b>vereen</b><b>, </b>muttering under breath.

    tion ft. Josh said after a few minutes. <b>The </b>number is untraceable<b>, </b>probably <b>a </b><b>burner </b>Whene. But the photo. I can <b>enhance </b>it and see if we <b>can </b>get any <b>clues </b><b>from </b>the background:

    Reba leaned <b>in</b><b>, </b>watching as Josh zoomed in on the image. ¡°Look at that reflection,¡± she pointed out. Is <b>that</b>¡­ a car window?¡±

    <b>Josh </b>nodded, focusing on the small detail. ¡°Yeah, and there¡¯s a partial te number. <b>This </b>might be something. Give me a bit to work on it.¡±

    Reba and Harvey watched Josh curiously as he busied himself with his phone andptop. ¡°I¡¯ll order you a double cheeseburger and bubblegum milkshake,¡± Harvey murmured, raising his hand to call the waiter

    Josh chuckled. ¡°Wow! You remember my favorite food?¡± he replied without taking his eyes off hisptop.

    As Josh continued his work, Harvey and Reba sat back, holding hands under the table. Despite the tension, there was a sense offort in knowing they had allies.

    ¡°Thank you, Josh,¡± Reba said sincerely. ¡°We really appreciate your help.¡±

    Josh smiled, not taking his eyes off the screen. ¡°Anything for you guys. Just hang tight.¡± After what felt like an eternity, Josh finally looked up with a triumphant grin. ¡°Got it. The car is registered to someone named Glen Bet. Does that name ring a bell?¡±

    Harvey¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Bet? Nichs is the only Bet I know, but he¡¯s in jail. Could Glen be a rtive? Maybe his father?¡±

    Reba tensed immediately. ¡°What if Nichs never really stopped? What if he¡¯s still holding a grudge? I never knew Nichs had a biological father who was <b>still </b>in contact with him. But I think Glen is either his father or his uncle.¡±

    ¡°Anything you¡¯re saying is possible,¡± Harvey said, his mind racing. ¡°We need to find him. Confront him and get some answers.¡±

    Josh nodded. ¡°I can track his address. Give me a second.¡±

    Within minutes, they had an address. Harvey thanked Josh profusely, and they promised to keep him updated. As they left the diner, Harvey turned to Reba. You

    24

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    ready for this?¡± He asked, his eyes searching hers

    Reba took a deep breaths, then nodded. ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s end this

    They drove to West Hamptons Dunes and stopped at the address Josh had given them ¡ú small, dpidated house

    Are <b>you </b>sure this is the ce? Reba asked, peering at the seemingly abandoned house.

    Yeah, let¡¯s make sure

    They approached the front door, Reba¡¯s hand trembling slightly as Harvey knocked. After a few moments, the door creaked open, revealing Glen Bet. His eyes widened in surprise.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Glen asked cautiously.

    ¡°I believe we have a problem. We need to talk, Mr. Bet,¡± Harvey said firmly. ¡°Can wee in? Aren¡¯t you Nichs¡¯s biological father?¡±

    Glen hesitated, then stepped aside, letting them in. The house was modest, cluttered with old furniture and stacks of newspapers. Glen led them to the living room, motioning for them to sit.

    ¡°What is this about?¡± Glen asked, crossing his arms.

    Harvey didn¡¯t waste time. ¡°We know you¡¯ve been following us. We got a photo, a message, everything. The question is why, Glen? What do you want? Did Nichs ask you to do this?<b>¡± </b>

    Glen¡¯s face paled, and he looked away. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to scare you. I was just¡­ trying to keep an eye on you. Yeah, Nichs wants you guys to live in fear¡­¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°What? Why? Harvey, we need to see Nichs! He¡¯s obsessed with me and it needs to stop!¡±

    Glen sighed, sinking into a chair. ¡°He asked me to keep tabs on you. He was worried you were getting too close to Harvey again. He didn¡¯t want to lose control.¡±

    Harvey felt a surge of anger. ¡°So it was really him?¡±

    Glen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple. He¡¯s scared. Scared of losing you, Reba.

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    Hex been <b>through </b>a lot since <b>his </b>mother died But I can see now that this was a mistake. I <b>shouldn¡¯t </b>have agreed to do this.¡±

    <b>Reba </b>softened slightly. ¡°Glen, we just want to be happy<i>. </i>We want to live our lives. without fear Can you understand that?¡±

    Glen nodded slowly. ¡°I do. And I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll talk to him. I¡¯ll make sure he understands. But be careful. There are things you don¡¯t know.¡±

    Harvey frowned. ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Glen hesitated, then lowered his voice. ¡°Nichs¡­ he¡¯s involved with some dangerous people. People who won¡¯t be happy if you two break free from his control. Be on guard.¡±

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 BIT 47

    The warning sent <b>chills </b><b>down </b><b>Reba¡¯s </b>spine She nced at Harvey, who <b>was </b>already deep in thought.

    We need <b>to </b>see Nichs, Harvey said, his voice resolute. ¡°Get the truth straight from <b>him</b>. He eximed,

    Glen looked reluctant but finally nodded. ¡°I can arrange a visit. But be careful. He¡¯s not the same person you remember.¡±

    Reba felt guilty. No matter how bad Nichs was, they were once so close to each other. If only he could control his feeling, his emotions, everything would never be that

    chaotic.

    The next day, Harvey and Reba found themselves standing outside the imposing walls of the county jail. The gray building loomed over them, a stark reminder of the reality they were facing, Harvey squeezed Reba¡¯s hand for reassurance as they walked through the security checks and metal detectors.

    ¡°I never imagined we¡¯d be here,¡± Reba said softly, her voice filled with unease.

    ¡°Neither did I, Harvey replied, his grip tightening on her hand. ¡°But we need to get answers. We need to put an end to this.¡±

    After what felt like an eternity, they were led into a small, sterile visitation room. A thick pane of ss separated them from the inmates, with phones on either side to

    When Nichs finally entered, Reba¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He looked different- older, harder. There was a coldness in his eyes that she hadn¡¯t seen before. He picked up the phone on his side of the ss, and they did the same.

    ¡°Nichs,¡± Harvey began, his voice steady. ¡°We need to talk.¡±

    Nichs smirked, leaning back in his chair. ¡°Harvey, Becky darling. To what do I owe the pleasure?¡±

    Reba felt a surge of anger at his nonchnce. ¡°Cut the crap, Nic. We know you¡¯ve been having Glen follow us. Why?¡±

    Nichs¡¯s smile faded, reced by a look of mild irritation. ¡°Why do you think? You

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    left me, Becky Your chose <b>him </b><b>over </b>me. I had to <b>know </b>what you were up <b>to</b><b>. </b>

    Harvey leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. So you decided to terrorize us? What do <b>you </b>hope to <b>gain </b>from this?

    Nichs shrugged. ¡°I just wanted to make sure you didn¡¯t forget about me. Looks like it worked.

    Reba felt a mix of fear and fury. ¡°This has to stop, Nic. You can¡¯t keep doing this. We¡¯re trying to move on with our lives.<b>¡± </b>

    Nichs¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°You think you can just move on? You think you can just leave me behind?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Harvey said firmly. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what we¡¯re going to do. And you need to ept that.¡±

    Nichs¡¯s eyes shed with anger. ¡°You don¡¯t get it, do you? You don¡¯t get to just walk away from me.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. ¡°Nichs, please. This isn¡¯t healthy. You need help.¡±

    Nichsughed, a harsh, bitter sound. ¡°Help? You think I need help? I¡¯m not the one who abandoned everything for some fling.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s patience was wearing thin. ¡°This isn¡¯t a fling, Nichs. Becky and I love cach other. And we¡¯re not going to let you ruin that¡±

    Nichs¡¯s face twisted in rage. ¡°Love? You think you know what love is? You have no idea what I¡¯ve been through, what I¡¯ve done for you, Reba. Don¡¯t you remember how this man dumped you and chose Alicia instead? Why are you so stupid, Becky? Why?¡±

    Reba¡¯s voice softened, trying to reach the Nichs she once knew. ¡°I know you¡¯ve been through a lot. But this isn¡¯t the way to handle it. You need to let go.¡±

    Nichs¡¯s eyes bore into hers, and for a moment, she saw a flicker of vulnerability. But it was quickly reced by a hardened re. ¡°I¡¯ll never let go what supposed to be mine. Never.¡±

    The visit ended with Nichs being escorted back to his cell, leaving Harvey and Reba feeling a mix of frustration and unease. As they exited the jail, Harvey wrapped an arm around Reba, pulling her close.

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    Cohen sure this om he said softly. ¡°<b>We¡¯ll </b>find a way <b>to </b>stop him.

    I figure m¡±

    secek nodded, leaning into <b>his </b>embrace. I just want to live our lives without fear. Wahou looking <b>over </b>our shoulders. Why can¡¯t everyone leave us alone?¡±

    They drove back <b>to </b>their temporary house, the talk with Nichs Fresh in their minds. The truth of their situation weighed heavy of them, but they vowed to confront it together.

    Harvey drew Reba into his arms when they sat on the couchter that evening. ¡°No matter what happens, <b>we </b>have cach other,¡± he said quietly, kissing her forehead.

    Reba nced up at him, her eyes full of affection. ¡°I know. And that¡¯s what keeps me going.

    Harvey cupped her face, his gaze intense. ¡°I love you, Becky. More than anything.¡±

    ¡°I love you too, Harvey,¡± she replied, tears brimming in her eyes.

    They spend the night watching movies, ying games and drinking to forget how scary the outside world is.

    ¡°It¡¯s funny, isn¡¯t it? How our life works?¡± muttered Reba while ying Harvey¡¯s nose. ¡°If I didn¡¯t waste you on our first marriage, maybe things wouldn¡¯t be this bad. I think I¡¯ve been fell in love with you since day one, otherwise I would never sleep with you. I just, I don¡¯t know what love was. I thought what I felt to Alicia was love but it was not. She manipted me. I was so-¡±

    ¡°Ssh, it¡¯s in the past. I know, you don¡¯t need to exin it again. Let¡¯s get some rest,¡± Reba suggested, pulling Harvey close. ¡°We have a lot to figure out tomorrow.¡± ¡°Harvey¡­¡±

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Harvey looked her attentively.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel tired with all this? It¡¯s like never ending drama. I¡¯m longing living in peace,¡± said Reba almost in a whisper.

    ¡°Do you want to give up on us?¡± asked Harvey, fear was on his face.

    ¡°No, of course not!¡±

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    <b>*</b>Twas jas tired Laiss my <b>normal </b>life.

    ver took a deep breath. He hugged her tightly and kissed her back. ¡°I know how to nude you feel better, he whispered as he unzipped her dress.

 BIT 48

    ma¡¯s Butan kete girending in Has there her culls She got lost in the VASTA TRIUT des prodem ade for a while. I miss is, she whispered as theyy w she bell rowend is nket.

    will how mu to vestrate after we get tel all of the obstacle. Max will help us.

    wowy¡± said Harvey, trying tofort her.

    Teals Jer¡¯s sleep! I love your eximed Reba then hid her face under Harvey¡¯s

    The next morning, the sunlight streamed through the curtains, waking them up gently. Harvey was the first to stir, his arm still wrapped around Reba. He watched her for a moment, marveling at how beautiful and peaceful she looked when she slept.

    As it serising his gaze, Reba¡¯s eyes fluttered open, and she smiled softly at him. ¡°Morning,¡± she whispered.

    ¡°Morning.¡± he replied, brushing <b>a </b>strand of hair from her face. ¡°Ready to face the day?¡± Reba sighed but nodded. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s figure this out.¡±

    They decided to start by reaching out to a private investigator, someone who could help them gather more information on Nichs¡¯s connections. Harvey¡¯s friend Josh rmended a guy named Max, who had a reputation for being thorough and

    discreet

    Meeting Max at a small cafe downtown they quickly filled him in on their situation. Max listened intently, his sharp eyes missing nothing.

    This sounds like aplex case. It¡¯s easier to deal with criminal but Nichs, I think he has mental issue,¡± Max said, leaning back in his chair. ¡°But I can help. I¡¯ll start digging into his connections and see what I can find. In the meantime, keep a low profile and stay vignt.¡±

    With Max handling the situation, Harvey and Reba felt a bit more hopeful. ¡°Let¡¯s try to do something normal today,¡± Harvey suggested. ¡°How about we explore some new ces?¡±

    Reba smiled, ¡°That sounds like a great idea.¡±

    +<b>76</b>%!

    They started their <b>day </b><b>by </b>visiting a charming park they had never been to before. ¡°This <b>ce </b>is beautiful,¡± Reba said, looking around at the lush greenery and blooming <b>flowers</b>.

    Harvey nodded, ¡°I can¡¯t believe we¡¯ve never been here!

    ¡°Have you heard any news about Alicia?¡± asked Reba carefully.

    Harvey let out a long sigh. ¡°My assistant says she¡¯s still trying to contact me, can I be honest?¡±

    Reba nodded, feeling nervous. ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°I do care about Mia and Alicia, I hope their punishment can be a lesson, although honestly I¡¯m not sure they will change,¡± Harvey said, his face looked gloomy.

    Reba held his hand and gripped it gently, We can¡¯t do anything, but we can hope,¡± she looked at him, smiling.

    That evening, as they walked hand in hand through the park, the soothing sounds of the rustling leaves and chirping birds calmed their nerves. The sky was painted in shades of orange and pink as the sun set, creating a picture¨Cperfect moment.

    ¡°This is nice,¡± Reba said, leaning her head on Harvey¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I wish we could have more moments like this.¡±

    ¡°We will,¡± Harvey promised, squeezing her hand. ¡°Once this is all behind us, we¡¯ll have all the time in the world to enjoy moments like these. I regret not doing more with you a long time ago.¡± He took Reba¡¯s hand and kissed it gently.

    The next few days,

    Max called with news. ¡°I¡¯ve found something,¡± he said, his tone serious. ¡°Nichs has been in contact with a known criminal organization. That¡¯s the reason why he could have acquaintances with dirty people from the DEA. They¡¯re not to be taken lightly. The organization needs money and all Nichs wants is

    you, Reba.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s heart sank, he turned to see Reba and tried tofort her.

    ¡°You two need to be extremely careful,¡± Max warned. ¡°These people don¡¯t y games. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m working on getting more information. We¡¯ll find a way to protect

    you.

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    Harvey, I think we <b>need </b>to see Nichs again. We have to talk to him heart by heart He has mental issue, we can¡¯t force him to confess everything. said Reba after Max ef Harvey let out a long sigh and nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go see him tomorrow then he decided atst.

    The next day.

    Nichs entered the room, he looked annoyed as he saw Harvey but his expression change when his eyes bumped into Reba. Back so soon?¡± he sneered, picking up the phone.

    ¡°Cut the act. Nichs, Harvey said, his voice cold. ¡°We know about your connections. We know you¡¯re working with dangerous people. This needs to stop, now or you¡¯re gonna face heavier punishment!¡±

    Nichs¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°You think you can threaten me? You have no idea what you¡¯re dealing with

    Reba leaned forward, her voice steady. ¡°Nic, we¡¯re not threatening you. We¡¯re giving you a chance to end this peacefully. If you don¡¯t, things will get much worse for you.¡±

    Nichs scoffed. ¡°You can¡¯t scare me. I¡¯ve got nothing to lose.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong. Harvey said, his tone menacing. You have everything to lose. And we¡¯re not going to let you ruin our lives.¡±

    For a moment, Nichs looked uncertain, but he quickly masked it with anger. ¡°Get out, he spat. ¡°This isn¡¯t over.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Reba said calmly. ¡°It isn¡¯t over. But it will be soon.¡±

    She stood up, putting a photograph she was once stole from Glen Bet house on the small ss hole in front of her so Nichs would see it ¡°Don¡¯t you care about them?¡± she asked, pointed at the Nichs¡® parents photograph.

    Nichs red in surprise, he took the photograph and left without saying anything.

    ¡°Max, I think we need to find Victor, said Reba when she and Harvey met Max in the Cafe. ¡°He¡¯s the key to unraveling Nichs¡¯swork, right?¡±

    Max smiled. ¡°Easy peasy lemon squeezy, I¡¯ve found him! He and his gangs were hiding in some werehouse in the bronx. We¡¯re going to move tonight. The faster the better, he said firmly. ¡°But remember, we¡¯re there to gather information and confirm Victor¡¯s

    <b>tervolvement</b>. We <b>don¡¯t </b>want <b>to </b>start a firefight

    Reba <b>held </b>her breath nervously and nodded. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Later <b>that </b>night, Harvey, Reba and Max team gathered outside the werehc looked dark and dangerous. Their hearts pounding with anticipation. Max an took the lead, slipping inside the warehouse while Harvey and Reba stayed behind.

    The warehouse was dimly lit, filled with crates and machinery. They moved si through the shadows, listening for any sign of Victor. Suddenly, they heard voing from a room at the back of the warehouse.

    Max motioned for them to stay back as he and his team crept closer. They pee inside, spotting Victor and a few of his men gathered around a table, discussing something in hushed tones.

    Max turned to Harvey and Reba, whispering, ¡°Don¡¯t make any noise. We¡¯re g get closer and see if we can overhear their conversation.¡±

    Harvey and Reba nodded, their nerves on edge. They walked very slowly, try hard not to make any noise. Victor raised his hand, signaling them to stop.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care what Nichs and Victoria wants Victor was saying, his voice low a menacing. ¡°He¡¯s in no position to make demands. We do things my way, or not a

    Reba red in surprise. Victoria? Did he mean Victoria, Harvey¡¯s mother? She turned to Harvey and found him as tense as she was.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to useplicated dramas like they did before. We can make things easier. I already have a n and Victoria has to agree, otherwise she will not only l her stepson, but also her own life,¡± said Victor then sucked the cigarette deeply.

    Reba red, she reached out to hold Harvey¡¯s hand and found him shaking violently.

    ¡°Alright, delivery ising soon! Let¡¯s get to work!¡± Victor shouted as he hit the tab hard, making all his men get up from their seats.

    Max hurriedly motioned for everyone to follow him. They walked quickly out of the warehouse area and safely reached the car.

    ¡°Listen, this is really unexpected, but for now I will focus on eliminating Victor. We

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    don¡¯t have valid evidence that he is the mastermind behind everything but we can look for traces of his other crimes. It¡¯s drugs! They¡¯re taking delivery tonight and I¡¯m calling the FBI to arrest him,¡± said Max,

    Reba gulped, she wanted to ask Max about Victoria but seeing Harvey¡¯s face made her unable to say a word.

    ¡°Okay, Max. Thank you,¡± said Reba because Harvey was too consumed with his own thougts.

    ¡°Harvey, are you okay?¡± asked Reba as they drove home. Harvey nodded, ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s a shock to hear my mother¡¯s name in that conversation but to hear the fact that I am the stepson is another thing.¡± he answered tly, hiding his emotion.

    ¡°We don¡¯t know whether Victor was talking about your mother Victoria or not, it could be someone else, right?¡± Reba said, trying tofort Harvey.

    Harvey shrugged.

    ¡°Yeah, maybe.¡±

    Later that night when they just reached their house, suddenly

 BIT 49

    <b>Chapter </b>49

    Max turned out to be right. After Victor was captured, there was no more terror, at least for <b>a </b>while.

    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to ask your mother about that?¡± Reba asked, touching Harvey¡¯s hand.

    Harvey shook his head. ¡°No, maybe one day. Ready to go?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go back to Manhattan¡± eximed Reba.

    After a long discussion, they finally agreed to return to Manhattan. This happened after Harvey received a phone call from the Specter family¡¯swyer, who said that histe grandfather depended on Harvey greatly to handle their family business because no one else in the family could be trusted.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be busy catching up on work for the next few weeks. You don¡¯t have a problem with that, do you?¡± Harvey asked while driving.

    Well, actually, I want to start being an active influencer again, but¡­¡±

    ¡°Do what you love, and I¡¯ll support you!¡± Harvey eximed, reaching out to hold Reba¡¯s hand gently.

    ¡°Really? Thanks, Harvey!¡± Reba smiled broadly and quickly called Cathy. ¡°Cathy, I¡¯m back!¡±

    The next morning, Reba woke up fading unusually tired and a bit nauseous. She brushed it off as stress from their recent move and the emotional toll of the past year. But when the symptoms persisted, she decided to see a doctor.

    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to adjust your schedule so I can apany you?¡± Harvey asked while hugging her.

    She shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not a kid; I can handle it myself. See you at dinner!¡± she said, then quickly kissed Harvey¡¯s cheek.

    Sitting in the waiting room, her mind raced with possibilities. She couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. When the nurse called her name, she took a deep breath and followed her into the examination room.

    After a series of questions and a quick examination, the doctor smiled at her.

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    Congrattions, you¡¯re pregnant.¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She was filled with an overwhelming sense of <b>joy </b>and fear all at once. She had always wanted to start a family with Harvey, but the timing. seemed both perfect and terrifying.

    As she walked back to their house, she couldnt wait to share the news with Harvey. When she arrived home, she found him in the living room, looking handsome in his

    white shirt.

    She approached him, her heart pounding with anticipation.

    ¡°Hey, babe, how <b>was </b>it? Is everything okay? You¡¯re not sick or something, are you?¡± Harvey asked when he saw her.

    ¡°No, um, it¡¯s all good, but I have something to tell you,¡± she said, her voice trembling

    with excitement.

    He looked up, concern and curiosity in his eyes. ¡°What is it?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, tears of joy welling up in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant.<b>¡± </b>

    For a moment, Harvey just stared at her, processing the news. Then a broad smile. spread across his face, and he pulled her into a tight embrace. ¡°Oh God, are you sure?¡± he whispered.

    Reba nodded, unable to hold back her tears. Harvey caressed her back gently. ¡°We¡¯re going to be parents, that¡¯s great!¡± he said excitedly. He kissed her head and looked at Reba¡¯s face intently.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get married again; this baby deserves recognition,¡± he said firmly. Even though he had proposed before, due to the recent chaos, the wedding had not yet taken ce. Reba smiled, ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s do it¡­¡±

    The next few months after they tied the knot were a whirlwind of preparations and excitement. They decorated the nursery, attended prenatal sses, and spent countless hours dreaming about their future as a family. The joy of expecting a child brought them even closer together, even though Harvey and his family were still in a cold war.

    However, as the due date approached, Reba couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off. She had been experiencing strange dreams but tried to brush them off, attributing it to the natural anxieties of pregnancy.

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    One evening<b>, </b>as they sat on the couch<b>, </b>Reba voiced her concerns <b>to </b>Harvey<b>, </b>¡°Do you ever feel like something <i>bad </i>is going to happen<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>she asked, her voice barely above a <b>Whisper </b>

    Harvey looked at her, his expression serious. What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Reba said, shaking her head. ¡°It¡¯s just a feeling. Like there¡¯s something <b>we¡¯re </b>not seeing, something that¡¯s still out there.¡±

    Harvey wrapped his arms around her, trying tofort her. ¡°We¡¯ve been through <b>so </b>much already, babe. It¡¯s normal to feel anxious. But we¡¯re safe now.¡±

    Reba nodded, trying to believe his words, But deep down, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that their troubles weren¡¯t over yet.

    ¡°The baby is moving!¡± eximed Harvey as he ced his palm on her belly. Rebal chuckled. ¡°Do you think it¡¯s a girl or a boy? I refused when the OB¨CGYN wanted to reveal the gender because I want it to be a surprise.¡±

    ¡°Um. I don¡¯t know, but I don¡¯t mind if it¡¯s a girl or a boy. I¡¯ll love my kid anyway.¡± answered Harvey, bending down to kiss her belly gently.

    Suddenly, Reba¡¯s stomach felt sick. She looked down, holding it while wincing.

    ¡°Becky, what¡¯s wrong? Are you in pain?¡± Harvey asked worriedly.

    Reba nodded, her face turning pale instantly.

    ¡°Could it be that you¡¯re about to give birth?¡± Harvey knelt before Reba, not knowing what to do to help his wife.

    ¡°I¡¯m just 35 weeks along; it should still be a while before my due date,¡± said Reba, trying to regte her breathing to ease the pain. After trying to lie down for fifteen minutes and with the pain only getting more intense, Reba started to worry.

    ¡°Harvey, do you think something is wrong with my pregnancy?¡±

    Harvey shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t say that. I¡¯ll put you in a wheelchair; we¡¯re going to the hospital now!¡± he eximed, trying not to panic but failing.

    Reba sat with tears streaming down her face. She bit her lip, holding back the pain that spread to her back and legs, something she had never felt before. ¡°Just a minute, babe, we¡¯re close to the hospital,¡± Harvey said, reaching out one hand to hold Reba¡¯s

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    cold, <b>wet </b><b>hand</b>. His <b>face </b><b>was </b>tense; he was scared. He <b>was </b>afraid of losing <b>Reba </b>and their <b>unborn </b>child.

    Five minutester, <b>Harvey </b>stopped his car at the hospital emergency unit. Paramedics rushed to Reba¡¯s aid and got her onto a gurney.

    ¡°Everything will be fine, okay? Harvey said, half running to keep up with the gurney.

    Reba just nodded while crying, not only because the pain was unbearable but because she was afraid she would lose her baby. After several tense minutes, the docto decided to perform a cesarean section due to an infection in Reba¡¯s womb. Even though it was difficult because their baby was still very small, for the safety of mother and child. Reba and Harvey agreed.

    Lying on the operating table made Reba¡¯s heart pound. ¡°Can my husbande in and apany me?¡± Reba asked before the operation began.

    ¡°Does he have a panic attack?¡± asked a nurse.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°He¡¯s very calm. Please, I need him,¡± she said, almost crying again.

    Not long after, Harvey appeared, wearing scrubs. He immediately approached Reb ¡°Rx, okay? I¡¯ll be here; we¡¯ll face this together.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a baby girl!¡± the OB¨CGYN eximed as she took Reba¡¯s baby out of the amnioti sac. Reba looked up at Harvey and smiled weakly.

    Two hours after the cesarean section, the horror was almost over. But when Harvey an the nurse were moving Reba to the inpatient room, Harvey¡¯s assistant suddenly came running from the corridor towards them<b>. </b>

    ¡°Sir, can I have a moment?¡±

    Harvey frowned and then nodded. From atop the gurney, a half¨Csleepy Reba watched them with a million questions in her head.

    Not long after, Harvey returned with a tense face.

    ¡°Babe, there¡¯s something very urgent that I have to take care of at the office. I promise I¡¯ll be back as soon as possible,¡± he said, rubbing Reba¡¯s head.

    Reba swallowed hard. Fear immediately coursed through her bloodstream. ¡°Is it that

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    Harvey smiled, but the tension on his face was back with your favorite chocte croissants.

    Tlove you too¡­

    After lying morefortably in bed, Reba the bad thoughts in her head and chose to for she could breastfeed her baby well.

    Suddenly, her cell phone vibrated. She smiled

    screen.

    ¡°Cathy?¡±

    ¡°Becky? Have you heard thetest news?¡± aske had just given birth.

    ¡°What news?¡±

 BIT 50

    <b>Chapter </b><b>50 </b>

    Reba gripped her phone tightly. ¡°How can that be? Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be in <b>prison </b>for seven years?<b>¡± </b>she asked, her voice choking.

    <b>¡°</b><b>She </b>was diagnosed withte¨Cstage cervical cancer, and a rtive applied for her to ced under house arrest, Cathy replied angrily.

    ¡°Cervical cancer? Doesn¡¯t that sound familiar I mean, Nichs lied about the same disease! Is the court really that stupid to grant that request?¡± Reba ranted, wincir her stomach suddenly hurt. Her painkillers were wearing off.

    ¡°That¡¯s what crossed my mind too! Are you okay? I know I shouldn¡¯t have told you,

    ¡°I just gave birth. Can youe over? I¡¯m about to lose it handling this alone,¡± Reb said, crying.

    ¡°What? Where¡¯s Harvey?¡±

    ¡°He went to the office. He said it was urgent, but I can¡¯t help thinking it¡¯s rted to Alicia.¡± Reba wiped her tears away haphazardly, her fear growing stronger since had the baby. She was afraid Harvey would leave her again.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there right away!¡± Cathy eximed. As always, she was reliable.

    ¡°Mommy, it¡¯s time to feed!¡± a nurse called out, pushing a baby crib into the room. Reba smiled, trying to push thoughts of Alicia far from her mind.

    The nurse adjusted Reba¡¯s bed to a semi¨Csitting position. ¡°You haven¡¯t named h yet?¡± the nurse asked, cing Reba¡¯s baby in her arms.

    Reba grimaced, her mind too full to remember such an important detail. ¡°We h few names picked out, but we haven¡¯t decided yet,¡± she replied, her eyes fixed on h adorable daughter¡¯s face.

    But breastfeeding wasn¡¯t as easy as she had imagined. Ma¡¯am, you can try again you¡¯re having trouble,¡± the nurse said, noticing Reba¡¯s pain and the baby¡¯s cryin

    ¡°No, what if she gets hungry? I¡¯ll keep trying. Could you wait outside?¡± Reba ple The nurse nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be back in fifteen minutes. Ma¡¯am, your baby only a little milk; she¡¯s very tiny, so don¡¯t push yourself too hard, okay?¡±

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    <b>Reba </b>nodded. She gazed at her baby, imagining the beautiful days ahead with her and Harvey. Then, miraculously, her milk started flowing. She cried with joy, knowing her baby was getting what she needed.

    An hourter, Cathy arrived with a shopping bag full of gifts. <i>¡°</i>Where¡¯s my niece?¡± she asked, looking around the room. ¡°She¡¯s in the nursery,¡± Reba replied, smiling slightly. Cathy ced <i>the </i>shopping bag on the nightstand and sat on the sofa.

    ¡°Do you know what¡¯s happening at Harvey¡¯s office?¡± Cathy asked cautiously. Reba frowned and shook her head. ¡°Do you know something?¡± she asked tensely.

    it¡¯s best if you hear it from Harvey directly.¡± Cathy sighed deeply. ¡°Um, maybe it¡¯s best

    Reba red. ¡°If you¡¯re not going to tell me, then don¡¯t mention that something,¡± she replied irritably.

    you know

    ¡°Alright then, um, Alicia went to Harvey¡¯s office and caused a scene,¡± Cathy said carefully.

    ¡°What?¡± Reba froze. It wasn¡¯t Alicia¡¯s actions that made her so angry, but the fact tha Harvey hadn¡¯t told her. ¡°Harvey must not have wanted to worry you, especially since you just gave birth,¡± Cathy said, seemingly reading Reba¡¯s mind.

    ¡°So, what kind of scene did Alicia cause at Harvey¡¯s office?¡± Reba asked quietly.

    ¡°After being released from prison, the first ce she went was Harvey¡¯s office. She sneaked in using a visitor ID, handcuffed herself to Harvey¡¯s desk, and threatened to hurt herself if Harvey didn¡¯te. She¡¯spletely insane¡­¡± Cathy shook her head in disbelief.

    Reba was silent, her face suddenly gloomy

    ¡°Hey, calm down. Harvey wouldn¡¯t-¡±

    ¡°I know, I trust Harvey, but I don¡¯t trust Alicia. She must have a n to take Harvey from me. I don¡¯t understand why she won¡¯t give up! They should have put her in a mental hospital!¡± Reba ranted, holding back tears,

    Cathy sighed deeply. ¡°You¡¯re right, but Becky, you have to trust that Harvey can handle

    about that woman for a moment and let¡¯s talk about the video content you want to post on your social media.¡±

    all of this. Remember, your milk won¡¯te if you¡¯re too tense, so rx, okay L

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    Reberen just <b>nodded </b>slowly, <b>her </b>thoughts still lingering on Harvey, Alicia, and what <b>might </b><b>happen </b><b>between </b>them.

    <b>That </b>night, after Cathy left, Reba tried to contact Harvey, but it always went to <b>voicemail</b>. She became increasingly anxious and restless. She called his assistant, whe told her that Harvey had left the office two hours carlier.

    ¡°Cathy? Am I disturbing you?¡± Reba asked, calling Cathy because she didn¡¯t know who else to talk to.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m with my mom at her dialysis. Is something wrong?¡± Cathy asked, half- whispering.

    Reba gripped her phone tightly, not wanting to bother Cathy. ¡°Um, nothing, I¡¯ll cal youter, byc.¡±

    She wished she could run out and search for Harvey wherever he was, but the pain from her C¨Csection still lingered, so all she could do was sit quietly on her bed.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you did well this morning. Try again, and your milk will flow,¡± a nurse said sympathetically, noticing that Reba¡¯s milk hadn¡¯te in.

    Reba bit her lip. ¡°What if I can¡¯t?¡± she muttered sadly. The nurse patted Reba¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s not a problem at all. It doesn¡¯t change the fact that you¡¯re a mother. We can give her form. Don¡¯t be too tense, okay? You¡¯re still recovering,¡± she said gently.

    ¡°Cathy, are you awake?¡± Reba asked, calling Cathy at midnight.

    ¡°No, I just finished brushing my teeth. What¡¯s wrong, Becky? You sound terrible,¡± Cathy as usual, was perceptive.

    Reba sobbed loudly. ¡°Harvey hasn¡¯te back, and I can¡¯t reach him. I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±

    ¡°What? Oh, shit, this doesn¡¯t sound good. Have you tried calling his office? Or his assistant?¡± Cathy asked quickly.

    ¡°Yeah, his assistant said he left the office in the afternoon, around four. Do you think he and Alicia-¡±

    ¡°No way. I can¡¯t imagine that happening. I mean, Harvey wouldn¡¯t make a foolish decision like that again, especially after you have a child. There¡¯s nothing we can do tonight because it¡¯ste, but I¡¯lle over now, okay? Rx, everything will be fine,¡±

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    Cathy said firmly,

    Where <b>are </b><b>you</b>, <b>Harvey</b><b>? </b><b>Reba </b><b>murmured </b>after ending the <b>call </b><b>with </b><b>Cathy</b>. She turned to <b>the </b><b>window </b>and saw the snow <b>falling </b>beautifully, in <b>stark </b><b>contrast </b><b>to </b><b>her </b>messy feelings..

    ¡°Snow, that¡¯s a nice name,¡± <b>she </b>murmured to herself. She spent the time crying until Cathy arrived and hugged her. ¡°It¡¯s okay, we¡¯ll look for him tomorrow, okay? I¡¯m sure Harvey <b>will </b>show up at his office. Get some sleep; I¡¯ll sleep on the sofa<b>.</b><b>¡± </b>

    The next morning,

    ¡°I think I can leave now. Look, I can walk! My C¨Csection stitches are dry enough,¡± Reba said as she slowly walked towards Cathy.

    ¡°Oh<b>, </be on! You can leave the hospital tomorrow, okay? If you don¡¯t listen to me, I won¡¯t help you!¡± Cathy replied, arms crossed.

    Reba pouted. ¡°Okay then, are you going to Harvey¡¯s office now?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll call youter. Focus on your baby; she needs you!¡± Cathy said, patting Reba¡¯s shoulder before leaving the inpatient room.

    Reba waited anxiously. She tried to stay focused and calm, but her milk still wouldn¡¯te. Finally, she gave in and allowed the nurse to feed her baby form. She tried contacting Harvey¡¯s assistant again but ended up in voicemail. She was losing her patience. Her only hope was Cathy; she had to find Harvey.

    As she finished feeding her baby with form, her phone suddenly rang. It was Cathy.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll take your baby back to the nursery,¡± the nurse said, cing Reba¡¯s baby in the bass. Reba nodded nervously, afraid of what she might hear from Cathy. ¡°Yes? Is he there?¡± she asked, her voice choked.

    ¡°He¡¯s not here, Becky. I asked the security guards, and they said-¡±

    ¡°Said what?!¡±

    ¡°Yesterday, Harvey left with Alicia.¡±

    Reba felt a sharp pain as if her bones were separating from her joints. ¡°What?¡± she whispered, all her strength draining

 BIT 51

    Karkly 1 hd pain to fast for Reba She staggered towards the bathroom and

    speed all her breakfau. Her joints ached, and her chest felt tight.

    Ma¡¯am, are you okay**

    A nurse appeared just as Reba was trying to clean herself up and change clothes. Reba looked up and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m just a little dizzy and nauseous,¡± she replied

    The nurse helped Reba up from the floor and assisted her in cleaning up and changing clothes. Reba remained silent, her expression t, struggling to shed tears even though she wanted to.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, we know some new mothers have trouble adjusting to their new reality. We have a psychiatrist here, and we will be happy to help you. So don¡¯t hesitate to tell me or anyone if you need it,¡± said the nurse kindly.

    ¡°Thank you, Maria,¡± said Reba, forcing a small smile just to appear sane.

    After Maria left, Reba sat on the bed in silence. She wondered why Harvey approached her again, married her, and even built a family with her if he was only going to return to Alicia in the end.

    ¡°We don¡¯t know the truth yet, Becky. Something else might have happened. I mean, Harvey couldn¡¯t have consciously gone with Alicia; he just became a father!¡± eximed Cathy, who had just arrived, as usual, always able to understand what was in her friend¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Cathy<i>, </i>Harvey is an adult man, much taller and bigger than Alicia. You understand what I mean, right? There¡¯s no way Alicia could force Harvey or, worse, kidnap him. I mean, the security officers even saw them!¡± Reba turned her face to the window, hoping her tears would fall but failing, which only made the tightness in her chest

    worse.

    Cathy sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯ll find out, okay? We can hire your friend who caught Victor. What¡¯s his name? Max?¡±

    Reba snorted, ¡°He¡¯s Harvey¡¯s friend; they will cover for each other,¡± she replied, pessimistic.

    <b>Cathy </b>scratched her <b>head</b>. ¡°<b>No </b>problem! <b>We¡¯ll </b><b>find </b><b>him </b><b>ourselves</b><b>! </b>Well<b>, </b>since <b>you </b><b>have </b><b>to </b><b>stay </b><b>at </b><b>home</b>, I¡¯ll <b>go </b>alone<b>, </b><b>okay</b><b>? </b>Don¡¯t worry; there are many other ways,¡± she <b>said </b><b>as </b>she <b>plopped </b><b>onto </b>the sofa.

    No<b>, </b>it¡¯s not necessary, Reba said suddenly

    Cathy red and frowned. ¡°What? What do you mean it¡¯s not necessary?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba swallowed, her throat feeling very sore. ¡°It¡¯s not necessary to look for him. If he suddenly disappears for a few days, his office will look for him and report it to the authorities. If that doesn¡¯t happen, it means he deliberately disappeared. So, let¡¯s just wait a few more days.¡±

    ¡°Becky, you sound like you¡¯re not yourself. Are you okay?¡± Cathy began to worry about Reba¡¯s change; she seemed emotionless.

    Reba shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    At that moment, there was a knock on the door, and a nurse appeared, pushing a baby crib. ¡°Time to nurse, Mommy!¡± the nurse called. She picked up Reba¡¯s baby and ced her in her mother¡¯s arms. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in thirty minutes; enjoy your time!¡± she said, cing a bottle on the nightstand.

    ¡°Hi, Snowy,¡± Reba said, gazing at her little daughter with a warm smile.

    ¡°Snowy? Have you given her a name?¡± Cathy asked, surprised.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°If Harvey doesn¡¯t return in a week, I¡¯ll have to name her myself. But for now, I¡¯ll call her Snow,¡± she said without taking her eyes off her daughter¡¯s face, as if those clear, innocent eyes were the remedy for all her heart¡¯s worries.

    Cathy nodded slightly. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m going to the caf¨¦ nearby. Do you want anything?¡± she asked, standing up from the sofa and looking at Reba¡¯s baby with adoration.

    ¡°Since I¡¯m not breastfeeding, can you bring me a cold double¨Cshot Americano and a slice of cheesecake?¡± Reba requested with her usual t expression. ¡°Okaaaaay, um, Becky¡­¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Reba asked, looking up in surprise. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Should we dy announcing your baby¡¯s birth on social media? Or-¡±

    <b>2/4 </b>

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    III

    ????

    ¡°We¡¯ll wait <b>and </b>decideter. Give me a week, Reba answered firmly as if she already knew what she was going to do with her life. She was broken, in pain, and hurt, but she refused to give in to the situation. She had a tiny baby to protect, so she would try to May same, even if it meant pretending.

    The <b>next </b><b>day</b>¡­.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you¡¯re allowed to leave the hospital, but if you still feel pain and need assistance, you can stay here longer,¡± said a nurse, cing Reba¡¯s baby in a crib because she didn¡¯t need to return to the nursery.

    Reba decided to go home. Harvey was still missing, and there was no news from him as if he had vanished into thin air.

    ¡°Careful! Are you okay?¡± Cathy asked as she helped Reba out of the car.

    Reba nodded, looking up at the apartment building Harvey had bought for their small family, and suddenly her legs stiffened.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Cathy asked, confused by Reba¡¯s sudden immobility.

    ¡°How can I live there without Harvey? Every corner will remind me of him. I think I should-¡±

    ¡°You can moveter, okay? Not now! Don¡¯t you still have five days to decide what to do? So don¡¯t think foolishly! Now hold Snowy, go inside, I¡¯ll bring your stuff!¡± Cathy said firmly. Reba nodded, grateful that someone sane was beside her.

    Slowly, she walked into the lobby of the apartment that had witnessed her life with Harvey for almost a year. Her chest felt tight, as if someone had just shoved a wad of paper down her throat, blocking her breath. She took a deep breath and crouched, afraid of falling with her daughter in her arms, while Cathy was still busy unloading things from the car.

    ¡°Hey, are you okay?¡± someone asked, bending down, trying to see her face.

    Reba took a deep breath, hugged her daughter tightly, and looked up.

    ¡°You, Jacob?¡± she whispered, surprised to see the man with his shirt sleeves rolled up. Jacob grinned widely. ¡°Oh God, such a small world! Becky! Long time no see!¡± he eximed cheerfully. ¡°And this must be your baby?¡± he asked cautiously.

    <b>3/4 </b>

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    Reba nodded slowly. Honestly, thest thing she wanted was to meet people she knew because she didn¡¯t want to exin Harvey¡¯s absence.

    ¡°Um, let me help you,¡± Jacob said, extending his hand. Reba didn¡¯t refuse because she needed support not to fall. ¡°Is Harvey still outside? You can wait for him while sitting here; it would be better,¡± Jacob said, pointing to a sofa in the lobby waiting area.

    Reba felt a hard blow to her chest. Jacob¡¯s question was the question everyone would ask if Harvey didn¡¯te back to her for good.

    ¡°Becky, let¡¯s go!¡± Suddenly, Cathy appeared.

    Jacob frowned. ¡°You¡¯re not with Harvey?¡±

    <b>** </b>

 BIT 52

    <b>Chapter 52 </b>

    Reba smiled stiffly. ¡°Harvey had something urgent to take care of at the office, so he rushed back there,¡± she lied. Jacob nodded hesitantly. ¡°Um, okay then. By the way, congrattions on your baby!¡± he said, smiling broadly.

    <b>¡°</b>Thanks<b>, </b>Jacob. I gotta go, bye,¡± replied Reba. She smiled faintly and then walked slowly toward the elevator with Cathy, who was struggling with the items from the hospital.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Jacob, your old neighbor? The owner of the caf¨¦ below your apartment?¡± murmured Cathy, ncing back asionally to see Jacob walking out of the lobby.

    Reba nodded, indifferent.

    ¡°Wow, he¡¯s more handsome than you described,¡± Cathy tried to joke, but Reba remained unaffected.

    ¡°Becky? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Cathy asked when Reba just stood in front of her apartment door instead of opening it. Reba closed her eyes, ¡°Sorry.¡± She shook her head and then quickly opened the door. All those feelings flooded back¨Cfeelings of emptiness she had never experienced before..

    ¡°This is really strange. I feel like I¡¯ve lost the will to live,¡± Reba muttered after putting her baby to sleep in the nursery she had designed with Harvey.

    Cathy sighed deeply, ¡°Your hormones greatly affect your mood. You just gave birth, so it¡¯s natural to feel very depressed. I¡¯ll make you some hot chocte, wait here!¡± She jumped off the sofa and hurried to the kitchen.

    Reba turned her gaze to the window, observing the bustling streets of Manhattan, which contrasted with her mood. Hesitantly, she scrolled through her phone and stared at Harvey¡¯s name for a long time before finally pressing the green button to call him. The call connected, but there was no answer.

    Her whole body started to tremble. Fear, disappointment, and anger allbined, making it hard for her to breathe. She covered her face, wishing she could cry, but no tears came, as if her body refused to cooperate.

    ¡°Hot Chocte!¡± Cathy eximed, cing a steaming cup of hot chocte on the table in front of Reba. ¡°Should we head over to the Specter Residence in Long Ind? Or

    ¡°¡±

    159 Thu Aug 13 1 KVA

    Chapter $2

    ¡°No, I¡¯ll wait a week and then decide what to do,¡± Reba replied firmly. ¡°Deep down, I¡¯m sure Harvey wouldn¡¯t leave me like this. Even if he intended to, he would at least say goodbye,¡± Reba said, her hands trembling as she took the cup of hot chocte and sipped it.

    Cathy sighed deeply, ¡°I think so too. After everything you two have been through, it would be strange for Harvey to just abandon you. What if Alicia is threatening him? What kind of threat could make Harvey Specter y along with Alicia¡¯s game?¡±

    Reba looked at Cathy, surprised by the suggestion. She shrugged, ¡°I don¡¯t know, a suicide threat?¡± she replied, her voice choking. Just the idea of Harvey worrying about Alicia¡¯s safety made her stomach churn. She hated to admit it, but she was incredibly jealous.

    Suddenly, Cathy¡¯s phone rang.

    ¡°It¡¯s my source. I¡¯ll put it on speaker!¡± she eximed, pressing the green button.

    ¡°Hey Dean? Any new info?¡± she asked, staring at her phone¡¯s screen curiously.

    ¡°I¡¯ve found them,¡± Dean replied calmly. Reba and Cathy exchanged shocked nces. ¡°What? Are you sure it¡¯s them?¡± Cathy asked incredulously.

    ¡°Check the picture I sent you!¡± Dean replied, somewhat annoyed. Cathy quickly opened the message Dean had sent and frowned at the image.

    ¡°Becky, is this Harvey?¡±

    T

    Reba looked down at the picture of a woman and a man sitting next to each other. ¡°That¡¯s clearly Alicia, but the man beside her, his build is simr to Harvey¡¯s, but I can¡¯t see his face clearly. But he looks a lot like Harvey,¡± Reba said, her voice catching.

    ¡°You need to make sure that¡¯s Harvey Specter or not! Don¡¯t jump to conclusions!¡± Cathy snapped at Dean.

    ¡°Mr. Specter¡¯s car is parked in front of that woman¡¯s house. Do you think someone else would be sitting on the balcony? It doesn¡¯t make sense, does it?¡± Dean retorted, equally annoyed.

    Cathy ended the call and moved to the sofa beside Reba. ¡°Becky, don¡¯t should go

    there? At least you need answers quickly. Believe me, you won¡¯t be able to handle the emotions building up inside you. You have to think about your baby. The

    you think we

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    <b>Thu </b>120

    <b>sooner </b><b>we </b><b>resolve </b><b>this</b><b>, </b>the better. What do <b>you </b>think<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    <b>Reba </b><b>wrung </b><b>her </b>hands anxiously. <b>¡°</b>Do you think Alicia <b>is </b>still as dangerous as before? You know I was never afraid of anything, but how there¡¯s a little baby I have to take <b>care </b>of. If something happens to me, who will take care of him? <b>It¡¯s </b>not the same anymore<b>, </b>Cathy<b>¡­</b>¡±

    ¡°Oh, shit<b>! </b>You¡¯re right. Alicia might target your baby if you try to take Harvey from her,¡± Cathy said, massaging her temples in desperation. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba sighed deeply, ¡°I¡¯m not going to bother Alicia. I mean, she¡¯s not my concern. My concern is my husband, Harvey. He¡¯s an adult who knows what decisions he needs to make. Even if Alicia threatens him, he should know the best decision to make.¡±

    She finished her hot chocte and immediately felt much better.

    Cathy just grimaced, not knowing what to say!

    As they chatted, trying to distract themselves from the thoughts of Harvey and Alicia, the doorbell suddenly rang loudly. Reba and Cathy exchanged confused nces.

    ¡°Yes?¡± Cathy asked through the CCTV inte.

    ¡°I¡¯m the building¡¯s delivery service. I have a package for Mrs. Specter,¡± said the delivery person, stifling a yawn.

    ¡°I know him, just open the door,¡± Reba said, nodding slightly.

    ¡°From whom?¡± Reba asked, epting the package with a furrowed brow.

    ¡°There¡¯s no sender¡¯s name. Please sign here. Okay, thank you.¡± The delivery person nodded politely and left to deliver other packages.

    ¡°Let me open it,¡± Cathy said, walking to the sofa and opening therge envelope as she walked. Reba snatched the package from Cathy¡¯s hands, ¡°I want to see!¡± she said impatiently.

    ¡°Shit!¡± Cathy eximed, eyes wide.

    Reba swallowed hard, her hands trembling. ¡°Oh God, it can¡¯t be real, can it?¡±

 BIT 53

    <b>Chapter </b><b>53 </b>

    Reba held Harvey¡¯s wedding ring with trembling hands. All the blood seemed to rush to her head. She copsed onto the floor, weak.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Cathy shricked, kneeling down and hugging Reba tightly. ¡°Hey, this doesn¡¯t mean anything, okay?¡± she said, trying tofort her, but Reba was unmoved. Her hand reached for the letter tucked inside the brown envelope.

    ¡®Babe, I have to consider everything, give me time. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t love our little baby¨Cbut I need to feel certain before continuing with our small family. When I saw Alicia devastated, I realized that I truly love her.¡® N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Finally, the tears she had been holding back broke free. She sobbed uncontrobly, clutching the letter tightly in her hand.

    ¡°I knew this was going to happen. Why am I so foolish?¡± she sobbed, her chest tightening.

    Cathy bit her lip, took the letter from Reba¡¯s hand, and stared at it intently. ¡°Are you sure this is from Harvey? I mean, this letter is typed and printed, not handwritten- doesn¡¯t that seem a bit odd?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba shook her head, desperate. ¡°I¡¯m at the point where I can¡¯t distinguish lies from reality anymore. I¡¯m tired, Cathy. Tired.¡± She stood up and walked, her knees shaking, back to the sofa, curling up there like a fetus in a mother¡¯s womb. She cried silently, with only her continuous tears indicating that she was still alive.

    Cathy approached, sitting beside her. She didn¡¯t say anything, thinking it would be pointless since Reba wouldn¡¯t listen. Shortly after, the sound of a baby¡¯s cry was heard. ¡°Becky, the baby¡­¡±

    ¡°Yeah, she must be thirsty,¡± whispered Reba, stumbling towards the nursery, her eyes vacant as if all happiness had just been drained from her face. She sat in the rocking chair, watching her baby eagerly suck milk from the bottle.

    ¡°Should I let you grow up without a father?¡± she murmured, her eyes welling up again as she began to sob once more.

    At the door, Cathy watched her friend with pity. ¡°Becky, we have to find out if Harvey really intends to leave you or not,¡± she said, walking closer and standing by the crib.

    ¤¹

    ¡°For <b>what</b>?¡± mumbled Reba, her gaze empty.

    Cathy sighed. ¡°To make everything clear! Right now, you¡¯re in a grey area. Once things are clear, it will be easier for you to let go of Harvey. Like it or not, you have to move on.¡± she replied patiently.

    Reba remained silent, Cathy¡¯s words ringing true. ¡°I can¡¯t think right now,¡± she whispered, choking up. She kissed her baby¡¯s head, then cried again. ¡°I knew it, everything that happened between us was too good to be true. We decided to get back together after everything happened in less than 24 hours. I should have known it was an impulsive decision, but I foolishly trusted him,¡± she muttered softly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself. We never know what will happen. I¡¯ll have my friend spy on Alicia¡¯s house. I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll find answers. We don¡¯t need to wait a week, Becky. This is an emergency! You know what, I¡¯ll go to his office and gather information on Monday, so in the meantime, is there anything that could make you feel better?¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I think I just want to sleep,¡± she replied. She stood up, ced her baby in the crib, then curled up on the thick carpet, hugging arge teddy bear.

    Cathy nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be in the living room,¡± she said, then stepped out and closed the door.

    After Cathy left, Reba opened her eyes again. For nearly fifteen minutes, she cried until her eyes were swollen, then fell into a deep sleep.

    A few hourster, Reba woke up to the sound of her baby crying. She stood up, her head feeling heavy. ¡°Hi, gorgeous! Mommy is here,¡± she whispered, kissing her baby, feeling guilty for not being a happy mother.

    She walked out carrying her baby and found Cathy half¨Csnoring on the sofa. ¡°Becky! You¡¯re awake? Do you need something?¡± Cathy eximed, opening her eyes automatically at the sound of the baby¡¯s cry.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°No, you can go back to sleep. I¡¯m just going to bathe Snow,¡± she replied calmly.

    ¡°Are you feeling better?¡± Cathy asked, stretching her stiff muscles as she stood up. Reba nodded. ¡°I wonder, is there anyone I can trust to watch my baby while we do the spying?¡± she mused. She stood in front of the ss wall, looking out at the imposing Manhattan.

    ¦¨¦¡

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    Cathy stared. ¡°Spying? What?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°You said we need to find out the truth, right? Whether Harvey really intends to leave me or if it¡¯s just that devil woman¡¯s doing,¡± she answered <b>Batly </b>

    ¡°Oh my God! You must have gotten inspiration in your dream! My sister can watch Snow! She¡¯s great with babies, and my mom is also at home. Well, she¡¯s on dialysis, but overall she¡¯s quite fit. She can supervise my sister while she takes care of Snow! How about it? Should we move today?¡±

    Reba nodded, having no other choice.

    ¡°Great! I¡¯ll pack Snowy¡¯s clothes. Are you sure you don¡¯t want to name her something else?¡± Cathy asked, half¨Cgrimacing.

    ¡°Something else?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I mean a real name. We can change it anytime before you register her birth certificate, Cathy suggested, feeling like she was talking about a pet whenever she mentioned the name ¡®Snowy!

    Reba took a deep breath and looked down at her baby. ¡°Lily, I will call her Lily,¡± she decided spontaneously.

    Cathy pped her hands once. ¡°Good, that sounds much better!¡± she eximed, then rushed to the nursery to pack Lily¡¯s things.

    An hourter, the three of them were in the car, heading to Cathy¡¯s house, not far from Jacob¡¯s Caf¨¦. After leaving Lily with Cathy¡¯s family, they quickly headed to Alicia¡¯s house, armed with a camera and binocrs.

    ¡°Why did you decide to spy yourself? We could have someone else do it if you wanted,¡± Cathy murmured while driving.

    Reba shrugged. ¡°I just want to see everything with my own eyes.¡±

    Twenty minutester, Cathy stopped the car across from Alicia¡¯s house and they were already surprised by someoneing out of the house just a minute after th

 BIT 54

    <b>Chap</b>

    int that Victoria? Cathy asked, her voice filled with surprise. Reba remained <b>silent</b><b>. </b>but her heart was pounding. It was always about Victoria<b>, </b>her mother¨Cinw.

    They watched as Victoria entered <b>a </b>car and leh Alicia¡¯s house with her driver and bodyguard Cathy turned to Reba, ¡°Becky. I¡¯m sure Harvey is under a lot of pressure. We both know how maniptive Victoria and Alicia can be<i>,</i><i>¡± </i>she said earnestly.

    Reba stared at Alicia¡¯s house, struggling to resist the urge to go inside and confront them. If it weren¡¯t for Lily waiting for her mother toe home, she might have jumped up and messed up Alicia¡¯s house

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Cathy. Should we knock on the door and ask them?¡± Reba muttered, obviously joking. Cathy snorted, ¡°It would be easier if Alicia weren¡¯t <b>a </b>cold¨Cblooded monster. We could confront her and solve this without being afraid of what might happen,¡± she said, rubbing her forehead, hoping for a good idea toe.

    ¡°We can¡¯t just sit here and specte, can we? Alright, I¡¯ll do what any wife would do when her husband is with another woman,¡± Reba suddenly said. She opened the car door and jumped out, making Cathy gasp in shock and do the same.

    ¡°Becky! Are you sure about this? I¡¯ming with you!¡± Cathy shouted, quickly following Reba.

    ¡°No, Cathy. We need to keep you out of this bubble. You have to stay outside to be safe, okay? Remember, you have a family, and Victoria or Alicia might use them against you. Stay in the car and keep the engine running,¡± Reba said firmly. Cathy was about to protest, but Reba shook her head, refusing to ept any objections.

    Reba walked confidently, even though her legs were trembling. Alicia¡¯s house wasn¡¯t arge mansion, but two guards were standing at the entrance.

    ¡°Yes?¡± one of the guards, who seemed to recognize Reba, asked.

    ¡°I need to see Alicia and Harvey,¡± Reba replied tly, despite her hands trembling badly.

    ¡°They¡¯re not epting visitors. Come back another time,¡± the guard said, yawning widely.

    ¡°There is no other time. Tell Alicia I just want to say goodbye to my husband,¡± Reba T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    fed ncing at the gun <b>on </b>the guard¡¯s belt. Her mind was racing. What if something hoggend to her? Who would take care of Lily?

    The guard called Alicia and ryed exactly what Reba had said. Shortly afterward, ¡°We need to search you,¡± the guard said, bored.

    Reba raised her hands, ¡°Just do it then,¡± she replied indifferently. She had nothing on her; she was truly risking her life just to get closure on her newly rekindled rtionship with Harvey.

    ¡°Clean!¡± the guard shouted<b>, </b>signaling to the other guard to open the door.

    Reba¡¯s heart was pounding. She imagined what scene she would witness inside. She stepped in and was greeted by the scent of jasmine. Her eyes scanned the three¨Cstory house, searching for her husband.

    ¡°Hey! Have you had lunch?¡± a voice called out. Reba turned to the source of the voice and found Alicia sitting at the dining table, enjoying what looked like a sd. She straightened her back and walked over to her.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Harvey? I need to talk to him,¡± Reba asked coldly.

    Aliciaughed, ¡°You should have informed us beforeing here. Harvey is sleeping after three rounds of sex with me. He¡¯s so exhausted his knees are shaking, hahaha! He must have really missed my touch!¡±

    Reba restrained herself from attacking Alicia. All her joints ached, and her heart was pounding hard. She snorted, ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t believe you, so tell me where he is,¡± she asked firmly.

    Alicia rolled her eyes. ¡°Oh my, you are really stubborn!¡± she eximed, standing up and walking towards Reba. She looked much thinner after getting out of prison; Reba could even see her slightly protruding ribs.

    ¡°See for yourself with your own eyes!¡± Alicia walked to a door and opened it wide. Reba followed her, struggling not to cry in front of that woman.

    There, on the bed, Harvey was sleeping soundly, naked. Only a nket covered his body up to his thighs.

    Alicia giggled, ¡°Sorry for the mess. Our sex was really wild!¡±

    Reba couldn¡¯t contain her anger any longer. She quickly walked towards the bed to

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    wake Harvey, but Alicia swiftly blocked her. ¡°You can¡¯t disturb my boyfriend while he¡¯s sleeping. Come back another time with your divorce papers. If you insist¨Cthere are <b>two </b>Siberian guards who can silence you anytime,¡± Alicia said, just inches from <b>Reba¡¯s </b>face.

    <b>¡°</b><b>I </b>need to hear all of this from his mouth directly,¡± Reba hissed, ring at Alicia.

    Alicia sighed deeply. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll convey your message, but for now, we need to rest because tonight will be another hot episode,¡± she said, smiling mischievously.

    Reba felt so disgusted she was sure she could vomit. She nced at Harvey once more, and suddenly, her chest felt like it was being pressed by a sack of wet sand. Without saying anything, she walked out of Alicia¡¯s room towards the exit.

    She didn¡¯t have time to observe anything because her eyes were blurry with tears. ¡°Hey! Did you see Harvey?¡± Cathy asked when Reba returned to the car.

    Reba shook her head, ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here,¡± she said, turning her face to the window. Five minutester, after she felt better, she told Cathy what had happened inside Alicia¡¯s house.

    Cathy red, ¡°Disgusting! That bitch really needs to be taught a lesson! But Becky, are you sure Harvey was really asleep?¡± she asked, focusing on the road ahead.

    Reba frowned, ¡°What do you mean? Of course, he was really asleep. I could hear him snoring softly,¡± she replied, getting annoyed when she remembered the scene she had seen earlier.

    ¡°Yes, I mean, was he naturally asleep or-¡±

    ¡°Or did Alicia drug him to sleep?¡± Reba interjected, bing tense immediately.

    <b>3/3 </b>

    *****

    SEND <b>GIFT </b>

 BIT 55

    <b>Reba </b>couldn¡¯t <b>stop </b>thinking about <b>Cathy¡¯s </b>words. What if Alicia had really <b>drugged </b>Harvey <b>with </b><b>sleeping </b>pills?

    <b>¡°</b>But he <b>couldn¡¯t </b>have slept for 48 hours, right? I mean, he must have been conscious when he went to Alicia¡¯s house because the guard at the office said he was driving,¡± Reba sighed deeply. ¡°Shit! I really don¡¯t know what actually happened,¡± she said, <b>bowing </b>her head and massaging her temples.

    Cathy grimaced, as she was just as confused as Reba.

    ¡°We¡¯ll meet Harvey at the office on Monday, okay? I¡¯m sure by then we¡¯ll have some answers,¡± she said, gently rubbing Reba¡¯s shoulder.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I have a feeling that Harvey won¡¯t being to his office for a long time,¡± she said uncertainly.

    ¡°We¡¯ll see. I¡¯m sure there¡¯s always an answer to every question; <b>it¡¯s </b>aw of nature. Should we pick up Lily, or do you want to go somewhere?¡± Cathy asked, focusing on th road ahead.

    ¡°I was thinking of meeting Victoria and talking to her,¡± Reba replied, ying with her cold fingers.

    ¡°Now?¡± Cathy asked, surprised.

    ¡°I just saw on her social media that she¡¯s nearby attending the Specter Foundation charity event. I¡¯ll intercept her so she doesn¡¯t have an excuse to avoid me. At least everyone knows I¡¯m her daughter¨Cinw, so she has no choice but to y along,¡± Reba said tly.

    Cathy nodded. ¡°Alright, show me the way, Maam!¡±

    A few minutester, they arrived at The za Hotel. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Cathy eximed as she parked the car.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I told you, you can¡¯t be seen getting too involved, Cathy. Wa somewhere nearby, and I¡¯ll call you when I¡¯m done,¡± she said firmly.

    ¡°But-¡±

    ¡°Remember, you still have a family, and I would feel very guilty if they got affected

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    because va mur. Sa burn to what I say or don¡¯t get involved at all, Reba interrupted, statne at Cathy sexsoudly before turning and walking into the lobby withrge ck

    w covering part of her face. She was Becky Blushoff<b>, </b>and people would

    She arrived but in time, as she saw Victoria emerging from the ballroom makeup room

    ¡°Sorry, <b>ma </b>am, this room is for staff only,¡± a hotel security guard said.

    Ranca smiled. ¡°I just want to meet <b>my </b>mother¨Cinw briefly. I¡¯m Reba Specter.¡±

    The dueless hotel security guard nodded politely and allowed Reba to meet Victoria, who was <b>still </b>walking down the hall towards the main ballroom.

    ¡°Victoria Reba called, just <b>five </b>feet away from her.

    Victoria looked up<b>, </b>her face betraying her shock as if she were seeing a ghost. ¡°What are you <b>doing </b>here?¡± she hissed with a smile, avoiding the questions of the people around theth

    Reba smiled. ¡°There¡¯s something we need to discuss. I know the auction starts in ten <b>minutes</b>, so can we go somewhere private for a moment?¡± she asked, ncing at Victoria¡¯s assistant from the charity foundation with a friendly smile.

    ¡°Chloe<b>, </b><b>I¡¯ll </b>be <b>in </b>the ballroom <b>in </b>five minutes. This way!¡± Victoria called to her assistant, having no other choice. She opened a door marked logistics room¡® and entered. Reba followed her, her heart pounding. This was her first time meeting Victoria again after the cunning woman¡¯s hospital drama.

    They stood facing each other, arms crossed over their chests.

    ¡°Get to the point<b>, </b>I don¡¯t have time to deal with you. Just because you¡¯ve given birth to Harvey¡¯s child doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯re family,¡± Victoria said coldly.

    Reba snorted withughter. ¡°Just because I¡¯m Harvey¡¯s wife doesn¡¯t mean I want a family rtionship with you, so swallow your pride. I just want an exnation. What were you doing at Alicia¡¯s house earlier? I know you¡¯re behind all this,¡± she said sharply.

    Victoriaughed. ¡°You¡¯re ming me for your husband¡¯s infidelity? Aren¡¯t there many witnesses who saw Harvey leave his office of his own ord? He even drove his own car with Alicia sittingfortably in the passenger seat,¡± she said cheerfully. She stepped closer, standing just a foot away

    away from Reba<b>. </b>

    218

    Braman

    Dras

    Use <b>your </b><b>brainl </b><b>Stop </b>denying the truth! Can someone as big as Harvey be forced to stay? He stayed because he cares about that woman! And I went there just to make sure my <b>son </b>was <b>okay</b><b>, </b>is that wrong?¡±

    Reba snorted.

    <b>¡°</b>One, Harvey could have been forced to stay because I saw with my own eyes two Siberian bodyguards guarding Alicia¡¯s house entrance. Two, what did you say? Your son? Are you sure? Isn¡¯t he your stepson? Why are you hiding that fact?¡± she retorted, her eyes shing with hatred and anger.

    Victoria red in shock, not expecting Reba to say that. ¡°Shut your mouth, you cunning bitch! You know nothing! Listen to me carefully, Harvey doesn¡¯t love you and he will soon divorce you!¡± she hissed, pressing her finger hard against Reba¡¯s chest. ¡°I have enough self¨Crespect, so don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll happily do it if those wordse from Harvey¡¯s mouth directly. I¡¯ll give you 24 hours to make Harvey appear before me and exin everything. If he doesn¡¯te, I¡¯ll report him to the authorities as a missing person and upload it on social media. People love drama, and I¡¯ll be the protagonist!¡± Reba said, smiling slyly to intimidate Victoria. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°And one more thing, get your filthy hands off me!¡± she snapped, pushing Victoria¡¯s hand away from her.

    Victoria became very angry. She grabbed Reba¡¯s arm hard, making her turn to face her, then pped her hard on the cheek. Just then, the door opened, and three of the charity auctionmittee members stood at the door, their faces pale with shock at what they saw.

    Reba held her hot cheek and then smiled at Victoria triumphantly. She leaned close to Victoria¡¯s ear and whispered, ¡°I will expose your true self and let the whole world know, just wait¡­¡±

    *****

 BIT 56

    Victoria¡¯s face turned red with fury as themittee members gawked. Reba straightened up, ignoring the throbbing pain in her cheek.

    ¡°Oh, Victoria, I didn¡¯t realize you were still such a passionate speaker,¡± Reba said loudly, conveying her voice to the onlookers. But I¡¯m afraid we have to end our little chat here. Your charity event must go on, after all.¡± She shot a pointed look at themittee members, who scrambled to look busy, their eyes wide with curiosity.

    Victoria¡¯s assistant, Chloe, rushed forward, her eyes darting between the two women. ¡°Is everything alright, ma¡¯am?¡± She asked nervously.

    Victoria forced a tight smile. ¡°Everything is fine, Chloe. Let¡¯s proceed with the event. Reba was just leaving.¡± Her voice was clipped and icy.

    Reba nodded, her demeanor calm despite the tumult inside her. ¡°Yes, I was just leaving. But remember, Victoria, 24 hours.¡± She turned on her heel and walked out, feeling the weight of the stares on her back.

    As she exited the hotel, Reba pulled out her phone and dialed Cathy. ¡°I¡¯m done here. Pick me up at the main entrance.

    Cathy arrived quickly, concern etched on her face as she saw the red mark on Reba¡¯s cheek. ¡°What happened? Did she hit you?¡± she eximed. Reba nodded, touching her cheek lightly. ¡°Yeah, but it¡¯s fine. We have bigger things to worry about. This is reallyplicated. I don¡¯t even know where to start

    Cathy tapped her fingers on the steering wheel, thinking. Not long after, she turned to Reba and said, ¡°I think we need to find the root cause.<b>¡± </b>

    1

    Reba frowned, ¡°You mean the reason why Victoria and Alicia are doing this?¡±

    Cathy nodded. ¡°You know, if this were just about money, Victoria could have gotten rid of Harvey at any time. I mean, Harvey isn¡¯t even her biological son,¡± she said, shrugging.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, but even Harvey wouldn¡¯t have known about that if we hadn¡¯t overheard Victor and his gang talking back then. I still don¡¯t understand how Nichs, Victor, and Victoria are connected¡­¡±

    ¡°Wait! Victor and Victoria? Could they be¡­¡± Cathy interrupted, eyes wide.

    12:32 Thu, Aug 15 MW<b>. </b>

    1 @ 471%

    Reba gasped. ¡°Siblings? Holy shit!¡± She covered her mouth, shocked by the idea.

    Cathy suddenly pulled the car over.

    ¡°Assuming that¡¯s true, it means Victoria was the mastermind from the beginning! She brought Alicia and Nichs together, each with different interests but the same goal, to separate you two!¡±

    ¡°But if this is about money, wouldn¡¯t it be easier for Victoria to get rid of Harvey and his father, making Mia the sole heir?¡± Reba bit her fingernail, confused.

    Suddenly, Cathy¡¯s phone vibrated. ¡°My sister!¡± she eximed, then pressed the speaker icon. ¡°Yes, Mom?¡±

    ¡°Lily won¡¯t stop crying. I¡¯ve given her milk and changed her diaper, but she still won¡¯t calm down. I think she misses her mother,¡± Cathy¡¯s sister babbled, her voicepeting with Lily¡¯s cries.

    Reba¡¯s face tightened instantly. ¡°I¡¯ll think about itter, let¡¯s get Lily first<b>!</b><b>¡± </b>

    Fifteen minutester,

    Reba ran down the hallway towards Cathy¡¯s, apartment unit, panting. She didn¡¯t want Lily to cry for too long. When she arrived, her heart pounded hard <b>as </b>she didn¡¯t hear the sound of a crying baby. If something happened to Lily, she would never forgive herself.

    ¡°She¡¯s asleep, but she didn¡¯t want to be put down in the crib,¡± said Olive, Cathy¡¯s sister, half¨Cwhispering.

    Reba sighed in relief.

    ¡°Thanks, Olive. I¡¯ll wash and change quickly,¡± she said, walking briskly towards Cathy¡¯s bedroom. She held her stomach, which felt like it was being stabbed; she had run too fast and forgotten that her <b>C</b><b>¨C</b>section wound was still not fully healed.

    She changed clothes, grimacing in pain, and then returned to the living room to hold Lily.

    ¡°Thank you, Olive. You¡¯re an angel,¡± she said sincerely. Olive beamed, ¡°No worries, I love babies!¡±

    1232 Thu, Aug 15 MWO

    and grabbing a can of cold beer.

    + 71%

    ¡°No, can you take me home? I think Lily needs her room,¡± said Reba, looking down at her beautiful daughter¡¯s face. ¡°She looks like her father, except for her eyes. She has

    my eyes¡­¡±

    Suddenly, Reba¡¯s chest tightened but she held back her tears.

    ¡°Becky, have dinner here first, I made a delicious spinach chicken for you,¡± said Cathy¡¯s mother, who suddenly appeared from the kitchen. Initially, Reba wanted to refuse because she didn¡¯t have an appetite, but seeing the sparkle in Cathy¡¯s mother¡¯s eyes<b>, </b>she finally nodded with a small smile.

    Two hourster,

    Reba sat in the car with Cathy driving beside her.

    ¡°Are you okay? I haven¡¯t heard you speak since earlier,¡± Cathy said, ncing at Reba, who was holding her still¨Caching stomach despite having taken pain medication.

    ¡°Yeah. Do you think Harvey will contact me tomorrow or not?¡± she asked without taking her eyes off the busy street.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, let¡¯s hope for the best,¡± Cathy replied, uncertain.

    When they arrived at Reba¡¯s apartment, Cathy¡¯s phone vibrated, a call from Olive. Shortly after, Cathy said quickly, ¡°Becky, I¡¯ll take you upstairs and then head back home. My mom needs me.¡±

    Reba red. ¡°Are you crazy? I can go up to my apartment by myself. You go home. now! Your mom needs you more! I¡¯ll be fine,¡± she said, then jumped out and unbuckled Lily¡¯s <b>car </b>seat from the passenger seat.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Cathy asked, reluctant to see Reba carrying the car seat with Lily in and a diaper bag on her shoulder. ¡°Easy! Just go!¡± Reba waved her hand, shooing Cathy away.

    ¡°Okay, call me if anything happens! Bye!¡±

    After Cathy left, Reba entered the apartment lobby, walking slowly because her stomach hurt terribly, as if her C¨Csection wound had reopened. Cold sweat started to drench her body; she couldn¡¯t wait to check what was hannenina <b>will</b><b>. </b>1. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Thu, Aug 1 WUS

    ¡°Becky! We meet again!¡±

    10+ 71%

    Reba looked up and saw Jacob standing in front of her, smiling broadly. ¡°Hi,¡± she replied with a faint smile. Suddenly, her vision began to blur. ¡°Jacob, can you hold my baby?¡± she asked, extending the car seat to Jacob, who took it without asking because three secondster, Reba copsed to the floor, blood seeping through the light blue knit shirt she was wearing.

    ¡°Becky! Becky!¡±

 BIT 57

    Chapter <b><i>57 </i></b>

    Reba awoke to the soft hum of hospital machinery and the antiseptic smell of disinfectant. The harsh fluorescent lights above made her squint, and as she turned her head, she saw Jacob sitting beside her, his face etched with concern.

    ¡°Jacob?¡± she croaked, her throat dry and raspy

    Jacob leaned forward, relief flooding his face. ¡°Becky<b>, </b>you¡¯re awake. Thank God,¡± he said softly, squeezing her hand gently.

    Reba tried to sit up, but a sharp pain in her abdomen made her wince. ¡°Lily<b>¡­ </b>where¡¯s Lily?¡± she asked, panic rising in her voice.

    M

    ¡°She¡¯s fine,¡± Jacob reassured her quickly. ¡°Cathy and Olive are taking care of her. She¡¯s safe.¡±

    Reba sighed, the tension in her body easing slightly. ¡°What happened? I remember copsing in the lobby¡­¡±

    Jacob nodded, his expression serious. ¡°You were bleeding pretty badly from your C- section wound. The paramedics got you here just in time. They had to perform emergency surgery to stop the bleeding and repair the damage.¡±

    Reba closed her eyes, absorbing his words. The events of the past few days ¨C the confrontation with Victoria, the stress, and the worry ¨C had all taken a toll on her. ¡°Thank you, Jacob. For being there. I don¡¯t know what I would have done if you hadn¡¯t shown up.¡±

    Jacob shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t thank me. I¡¯m just d you¡¯re okay. You and Lily have been through enough.¡±

    Just then, a nurse entered the room, her smile warm and reassuring. ¡°Good to see you awake, Mrs. Specter. How are you feeling?¡±

    ¡°Sore,¡± Reba admitted, managing a small smile. ¡°But better.¡±

    The nurse nodded, checking the monitors and making a few notes on her chart. ¡°You¡¯ve been through quite an ordeal. It¡¯s important to rest and let your body heal. If you need anything, just press the call button.¡±

    After the nurse left, Reba turned back to Jacob. ¡°How long have I been out?¡±

    Chapter <b>37 </b>

    + 71%*

    ¦°

    ¡°A couple of hours,¡± Jacob replied. ¡°Cathy and Olive will be back soon. They wanted to let you rest for a bit.¡±

    Jacob cleared his throat softly. ¡°Um, Becky, sorry if I¡¯m being forward. You don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to. Um, did something happen between you and Harvey?¡± he asked cautiously. Reba was startled and turned her face away. A year ago, Jacob had witnessed Harvey trying to win her back after a few months of their divorce. And now, after a year of reconciliation and having a baby, she couldn¡¯t possibly say that they were heading for a second divorce. She felt truly ashamed. ¡°Becky, you don¡¯t have to answer,¡± Jacob interjected, waving his hand dismissively.

    Not long after, the door opened slowly and Cathy appeared, followed by Olive who was pushing a stroller with Lily inside. Reba was about to get up from the bed when. Jacob reflexively held her shoulder. ¡°Try to stay lying down for at least a day. You don¡¯t want your stitches to open again, do you?¡± he admonished firmly.

    ¡°Jacob is right, don¡¯t worry about Lily. Look, she¡¯s sleeping soundly. Olive already changed her diaper and fed her, so just lie down and rx, okay?¡± Cathy chimed in, half ring.

    Reba winced, ¡°Sorry for troubling the three of you¡­¡±

    ¡°Jacob, I heard you canceled your meeting because of the incident earlier. Just go! Olive and I will take care of Becky. By the way, thanks for calling me, I didn¡¯t even know you had my number,¡± Cathy said lightly.

    Jacob sneered. ¡°I got it from Becky¡¯s social media bio,¡± he answered earnestly. Cathy chuckled, ¡°Of course you did!¡±

    Jacob hesitated for a moment, then stood up, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll head out. But I¡¯ll be back to check on youter, Becky,¡± he said, giving her hand onest squeeze before leaving the

    room.

    Cathy watched him go, a mischievous smile on her face. ¡°Looks like someone still has a soft spot for you,¡± she teased.

    Reba rolled her eyes, though she couldn¡¯t help but smile faintly. ¡°Don¡¯t start, okay?¡±

    She sighed, leaning back against the pillows, and said, ¡°But yeah, I owe him big time.¡±

    As they settled into afortable silence, the nurse returned to check on Reba¡¯s vitals. She offered a reassuring smile as she adjusted the IV drip. ¡°You seem to be

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    recovering well. Just remember to take it casy and avoid any stress.¡±

    @ +71%

    ¡°That¡¯s easier said than done,¡± Reba muttered, thinking about the confrontation with Victoria and the looming threat over her family.

    Just then, Cathy¡¯s phone buzzed. She nced at the screen and her expression turned serious. ¡°Becky, it¡¯s from Harvey¡¯s number. Do you want me to answer it?¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She nodded slowly. ¡°Put it on speaker.¡±

    Cathy pressed the answer button and Harvey¡¯s voice filled the room. ¡°Cathy, where¡¯s Becky? Is she alright?¡± Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    It was indeed his voice. Reba gripped the bed sheet tensely, scared of what she might hear.

    ¡°She¡¯s here, Harvey,¡± Cathy replied, her voice steady. ¡°She¡¯s been through a lot, but she¡¯s okay. You¡¯re on speaker.¡±

    There was a pause for a few seconds before Harvey finally spoke. ¡°I have to go,¡± and then the call abruptly ended. Reba stared in shock, feeling like she had just lost herst chance to talk to her husband. ¡°What was that?¡± she murmured, her voice choked with emotion. Cathy took a deep breath, ¡°One thing¡¯s for sure, he sounded very aware. It means he¡¯s conscious and not under the drug.¡±

    ¡°So this <b>is </b>all real? So Harvey left me because he wanted to? He didn¡¯t even ask about his daughter? How could he?¡± whispered Reba while shaking her head in disbelief. She turned to look at Lily, sleeping peacefully in the stroller and felt utterly heartbroken.

    Cathy rubbed her arm, trying tofort her. ¡°There¡¯s always another possibility; we can¡¯t just jump to conclusions,¡± she said, trying to be reassuring. Suddenly, there was a soft knock on the door, and shortly after, someone appeared from behind it. ¡°Um, <b>may </b>Ie in?¡± asked a young woman in a neat business suit. Reba frowned, ¡°Who are you?¡±

    ¡°Good Evening, Ma¡¯am. I am Giselle, the repres

 BIT 58

    Reba and Cathy exchanged puzzled nces. ¡°Are you alone?¡± Cathy asked suspiciously. Giselle nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Becky?¡± Cathy asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Reba nodded, allowing Giselle to enter¡­

    ¡°Great!¡± eximed Giselle with a wide smile, revealing herrge teeth. ¡°The firm sent me to deliver this,¡± she said, handing over a white envelope.

    Reba frowned as she took the envelope and opened it slowly. ¡°What is it, Becky?¡± Cathy asked curiously. Reba read the paper and suddenly felt a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu. Everything seemed to be repeating, and it made her tremble.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Cathy snatched the paper from Reba¡¯s hand and read it quickly. ¡°What is this? Who instructed your firm to issue this letter?¡± she snapped, ring at Giselle, who just stood there looking flustered.

    ¡°I¡¯m just doing my job,¡± Giselle said nervously. ¡°It¡¯s just a divorce notice, why are you so shocked?¡±

    Cathy shot Giselle a sharp look, wanting to yell in her face but refrained because she didn¡¯t want to wake Lily, who was still asleep.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to control her emotions. ¡°What¡¯s your name again?¡± she asked, looking at Giselle.

    ¡°Me? Giselle, Giselle Howard,¡± Giselle replied cheerfully.

    ¡°Take the divorce notice back. I will only ept and consider this notice valid if my husband delivers it to me personally,¡± Reba said firmly.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Mrs. Specter needs to rest, so please leave immediately,¡± Cathy interjected, handing the divorce notice back to Giselle, who epted it in confusion.

    Giselle hesitated but eventually nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll inform Mr. Specter of your request.¡± She gave a small bow before exiting the room, leaving Reba and Cathy in a heavy silence.

    | ¡ê34/15)

    TIIU<b>, </b><b>ABY </b>TO

    Reba stared at the door, her mind racing. This can¡¯t be happening<b>,</b><b>¡± </b>she whispered, feeling tears prick at the corners of her eyes.

    Cathy reached over and squeezed her hand. ¡°We¡¯ll figure this out, Becky. You¡¯re not alone in this.¡±

    Reba nodded, swallowing hard. ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t understand why Harvey would do this. We were finally starting to rebuild our life together.¡±

    Cathy sighed. ¡°There¡¯s got to be more to this. Maybe he¡¯s under some pressure we don¡¯t know about.¡±

    Reba was startled. She stared at the ceiling, feeling something heavy pressing on her chest, making it difficult for her to breathe. She cried silently, letting her tears soak the pillow.

    ¡°You better get some rest. Just don¡¯t think about it, okay? We¡¯ll figure it outter,¡± Cathy said, deliberately stepping away from Reba because she knew she needed some space.

    Reba closed her eyes. She kept crying silently until she finally fell asleep due to the painkillers she had taken before.

    A few hourster.

    ¡°Hey¡­¡±

    Reba slowly opened her eyes and turned toward the source of the voice. ¡°Jacob?¡± she called out, unsure because her vision was a bit blurry due to low blood pressure.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. Are you okay?¡± Jacob asked worriedly.

    Reba blinked several times, and gradually her vision cleared. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m just a little. dizzy. Where¡¯s Lily?¡± she asked, suddenly feeling a strong longing for her daughter.

    ¡°The doctor advised Cathy and Olive to take her home. You know, she¡¯s still very young, and hospitals are the most contaminated ces,¡± Jacob said, as he took a ss of water from the nightstand and helped Reba drink.

    ¡°Cathy took Lily to her house? Or?<b>¡± </b>

    Jacob nodded twice.

    Reba panicked instantly. ¡°What if Victoria kidnaps her? I need to secure Lily!¡± she eximed, trying to get up from her bed, but Jacob hurriedly restrained her by holding her shoulders. ¡°Becky, please! Lily will be fine, no one is going to kidnap her, okay?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know what Victoria and Alicia are like, they-¡±

    ¡°I understand. Cathy has exined a bit of the situation to me, and I get your fear. So, I asked two of my cafe¡¯s security guards to escort them to Cathy¡¯s apartment and make sure they got inside safely, Jacob said calmly, This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba¡¯s shoulders rxed. Sheid her head back on the pillow and exhaled deeply. ¡°Thank you,¡± she whispered, staring at the ceiling.

    Jacob nodded. ¡°No worries. Um, you missed your dinner, so I guess the food is no longer fresh and tasty. Do you want to cat something else? I can get it for you from the caf¨¦ downstairs, they¡¯re open 24 hours,¡± he said, trying to lighten the mood.

    Reba shook her head; she had no desire to eat. She just wanted to stare at the ceiling all the time. She even wished Jacob would go away because his presence reminded her. of Nichs. She was afraid the same thing would happen again.

    ¡°Unfortunately, you have to eat, at least that¡¯s what the doctor advised earlier,¡± Jacob said, shrugging.

    Reba nced at the nightstand. ¡°Alright, can you get me that bread? I¡¯ll just eat that,¡± she said tly.

    ¡°I think I¡¯ll be fine; you should go home and rest,¡± said Reba, stuffing the sweet bread into her mouth. She even refused Jacold attempt to feed her.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Jacob replied casually.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been working all day, and it¡¯s now two in the morning. Come on! I don¡¯t want to trouble everyone,¡± Reba rambled. She didn¡¯t want to get too close to any man again and repeat what happened with Nichs.

    ¡°Becky, I know you¡¯re scared, but believe me, I don¡¯t have any bad intentions. I really just want to help, Jacob said patiently.

    Reba almost choked on her bread. She was very surprised that Jacob seemed to read her mind. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she whispered.

    Jacob shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t be sorry. It¡¯s natural for you to feel that way. You¡¯ve been

    D

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    233 Thu, Aug 15 ML O

    through a lot.¡± He reached out and gently stroked Reba¡¯s hand. At that moment, the door opened. Reba and Jacob turned simultaneously and saw Harvey standing there, looking at them with an expression hard to decipher.

    ¡°HARVEY!¡± Reba eximed, her eyes sparkling with hope.

    Harvey stepped closer. ¡°I just wanted to deliver this,¡± he said, cing a white envelope at the foot of Reba¡¯s bed.

    Reba¡¯s heart felt like it dropped to her stomach. She hadn¡¯t expected the nightmare to repeat itself.

 BIT 59

    Reba¡¯s face turned red instantly. She tried to sit up, but Jacob held her shoulders down again.

    ¡°Becky, you don¡¯t want your C¨Csection scar to reopen, do you? If you won¡¯t think of yourself, at least think of Lily!¡± Jacob said, ncing sharply at Harvey. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Harvey stood there, looking down to avoid Reba¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Harvey, I know you¡¯re under pressure. Are they threatening you? We¡¯ve been through so much together, we can <b>get </b>through this too. Please, don¡¯t give up!¡± Reba began to cry, hoping Harvey would rush into her arms, but he remained still.

    ¡°Becky, please sign these divorce papers and make this easier for all of us,¡± Harvey said, his voice trembling.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what they¡¯re doing to you, but this is a mistake, Harvey! This divorce won¡¯t solve anything! Please, stop this nonsense and tell me what¡¯s really going on,¡± Reba pleaded, reaching out to him, but he ignored her.

    ¡°There are no threats or intimidation. This is purely my decision. I¡¯m sorry it has to end this way,¡± Harvey said, still avoiding her eyes.

    ¡°Look me in the eyes, for God¡¯s sake, Harvey! At least give me a reason why you¡¯re doing this to me!¡± Reba shouted hysterically.

    Harvey wiped the tears from his eyes and took a deep breath. ¡°If this is about our baby

    ¡°I would never hold you back just because of our baby. Marriage should be more than that! I can raise Lily on my own. So answer my question, Harvey! Why do you suddenly want to divorce me after a year of happiness together?¡± Reba asked, clutching her scar that felt like it was being pricked by hundreds of hot needles.

    ¡°I still love Alicia,¡± he whispered softly.

    ¡°No¡­¡± Reba shook her head in disbelief.

    ¡°I¡¯ll leave the documents here. Please sign them. I¡¯ll make sure you get more than enoughpensation for you and our baby,¡± Harvey said, his jaw tightening as he held. back his emotions.

    ¡°LOOK ME IN THE EYE AND TELL ME THAT AGAIN!¡± Reba roared, her neck veins visible. She ignored Jacob, who was caught between her and Harvey.

    Harvey looked up, his sharp eyes meeting Reba¡¯s. ¡°Let¡¯s end this here, Becky,¡± he said, almost crying. He turned and walked out of Reba¡¯s hospital room, his hands. clenched tightly at his sides.

    Reba clutched her hair and screamed loudly.

    Jacob hurried to embrace her, trying to calm her down. He pressed the red button to call the nurse.

    ¡°Excuse me, is something wrong? We heard screaming,¡± the nurse said, hurriedly adjusting her sses.

    Reba no longer held back her emotions. She cried like a helpless child.

    Jacob spoke softly to the doctor who had just entered, exining that Reba was under severe stress and had be hysterical.

    ¡°Can you give her a sedative so she can rest?¡± Jacob asked, looking worriedly at Reba, who was still crying. He remembered their first meeting when she was crying in front of his cafe, and even a yearter, she was still crying over the same man.

    The doctor nodded. Momentster, he administered a sedative and pain relief medication through Reba¡¯s IV, making her very drowsy.

    ¡°Jacob¡­¡± Reba called, blinking her eyes.

    ¡°Yes?¡± Jacob leaned closer to hear her.

    ¡°Am I not worthy of happiness?¡± she whispered before falling asleep.

    The next morning, Reba was awakened by the sound of a baby crying. She opened her eyes to see Jacob holding Lily.

    ¡°Lily¡­¡± Reba called hoarsely.

    Jacob turned, surprised. ¡°Becky, you¡¯re awake?¡± He approached the bed, rocking Lily, who was still crying.

    ¡°Come here, baby¡­¡±

    1232 1, Aud l¨¤

    Reba pressed the button on her bed, adjusting her position to a semi¨Csitting position.

    ¦°

    ¡°Are you sure? Is your scar better?¡± Jacob asked, reluctant to hand Lily over to Reba.

    Reba nodded. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Can you get the blue bag over there? I think she¡¯s hungry<b>,</b><b>¡± </b>she said, taking Lily from Jacob and holding her warmly.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make her milk, wait a moment, Jacob said, busy reading the instructions on the milk box.

    ¡°Thanks. Where¡¯s Cathy?¡± Reba asked, looking around the room, puzzled.

    ¡°She said her mom was admitted to the ICU and asked me to take care of Lily because Olive had to be there too. They were afraid something bad would happen and they wouldn¡¯t have a chance to say goodbye.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Reba stared in shock. She quickly grabbed her phone from the bedside table and called Cathy, but it went to voicemail. She sent a short message of support instead.

    ¡°The milk is ready!¡± Jacob called, handing the bottle to Reba.

    ¡°Thanks, Jacob. I mean it¡­¡±

    Jacob nodded. ¡°No worries!¡± he said, pulling up a chair and sitting by the bed.

    Lily¡¯s crying stopped once she started sucking on the bottle. Reba smiled slightly, her daughter¡¯s innocent face warming her heart.

    As she looked up, her eyesnded on the white envelope Harvey had left the previous night, and her heart pounded. Her breath quickened, and her chest felt tight.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Jacob noticed Reba¡¯s change and frowned, confused.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, leaning in to check on her.

    ¡°Can you hold Lily for a moment?¡± Reba asked, gasping for breath.

    Jacob quickly took Lily from Reba¡¯s arms and pressed the red button.

    Soon, the on¨Ccall doctor and nurse arrived. They checked on Reba swiftly and gave her oxygen.

    12 33 Thu, Aug 15 MU 6

    ¡°Mrs. Specter had a panic attack. She¡¯s calmer now. Try to distract her with pleasant thoughts. If the symptoms persist, we rmend seeing a psychiatrist,¡± the doctor told Jacob before leaving the room.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need a psychiatrist,¡± Reba whispered as Jacob sat back down beside her bed, holding Lily.

    Jacob sighed deeply and nodded. ¡°Yeah, you don¡¯t need one. You know you can vent your anger on me. Think of me as a wall or a tissue box.¡±

    Reba stared at the ceiling, recalling her convers

 BIT 60

    <b>Chapter </b><b>60 </b>

    Jacob hesitated, his gaze lingering on Reba¡¯s face, searching for any sign of doubt. But her eyes were steady, determined. He reached for the envelope on the table and handed it to her. Reba took it with trembling hands, her resolve momentarily faltering as she felt the weight of what she was about to do.

    ¡°Are you sure, Becky?¡± Jacob asked softly, his voice filled with concern.

    Reba nodded, swallowing hard. ¡°Yes. It¡¯s clear he doesn¡¯t want to be with me anymore. I need to do this for my own sanity and for Lily.¡±

    She opened the envelope, pulling out the divorce papers. The legal jargon blurred in her teary eyes, but she could make out the familiar handwriting of Harvey¡¯s signature at the bottom of each page. Her heart ached, but she steeled herself, knowing this was the only way forward. With a deep breath, she signed the documents, each stroke of the pen feeling like a final goodbye to the life she had envisioned with Harvey.

    When she finished, Reba handed the papers back to Jacob. ¡°Can you take care of these for me? I don¡¯t think I can handle it anymore.¡±

    Jacob nodded, taking the envelope. ¡°Of course, Don¡¯t worry!¡±

    Reba looked at Lily, who had fallen asleep in Jacob¡¯s arms, her tiny face peaceful and unaware of the turmoil around her. ¡°I have to be strong for her. She deserves better than a mother who¡¯s falling apart. If her father doesn¡¯t want to fight for her, then I will.¡±

    Jacob ced Lily gently in her stroller, then turned back to Reba. ¡°You are strong, Becky. You¡¯ve been through so much, and you¡¯re still standing. That¡¯s more than a lot of people can say.¡±

    Reba managed a weak smile. ¡°Thank you, Jacob.¡±

    ¡°Anytime!¡± He squeezed her hand reassuringly.

    Suddenly, Reba¡¯s phone vibrated, an iing call from Cathy. She hurriedly pressed the green button.

    ¡°Cathy? How¡¯s your mom?<b>¡± </b>she asked quickly. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Only the sound of sobbing could be heard, making Reba¡¯s eyes widen.

    ¡°Cathy?¡±

    ¡°Becky. I don¡¯t think I can work as your manager anymore, Cathy said through her

    tears.

    Reba frowned.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that, okay? Just focus on your mom¡¯s health,¡± she said, not understanding why Cathy suddenly said that.

    ¡°You don¡¯t understand, Becky. We can¡¯t see each other anymore. I¡¯m sorry¡­<b>¡± </b>

    Suddenly, the call was disconnected.

    ¡°Cathy? Are you still there?¡± Reba called out. She looked at her phone screen and was shocked to realize the call had ended.

    She tried calling Cathy back, but her calls always went to voicemail.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>Jacob asked, frowning in confusion. <b>¡°</b>Is something wrong with Cathy?¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. She suddenly said she can¡¯t work as my manager anymore. Well, I mean, that¡¯s not a problem, but she also said she can¡¯t see me anymore. Isn¡¯t that strange?<b>¡± </b>

    Jacob frowned. ¡°Strange¡­¡±

    ¡°I have to see her,¡± murmured Reba, biting her lip anxiously. She had never had a friend as close to her as Cathy.

    ¡°Becky¡­¡±

    Reba looked up, her face pale, and stared at Jacob.

    Jacob cleared his throat gently. ¡°What if this has something to do with your husband¡¯s family?¡±

    Reba felt like she had been struck by lightning. She was so shocked by the idea that she dropped the phone in her hand.

    ¡°Oh, God! Did I just put Cathy and her family in danger?¡± she said, trembling.

    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, okay? This is beyond your control,¡± Jacob said, touching Reba¡¯s shoulder gently.

    Reba covered her face, her sobs breaking out, and her shoulders shaking violently.

    Chapter

    ¡°What did I do wrong? Why are they so cruel to take everything from me?¡±

    Jacob hugged Reba, trying tofort her. ¡°Hey, not everything, okay? You still have Lily and me¡­¡±

    Jacob¡¯s words seemed unable to stop Reba¡¯s crying. She continued to weep, which eventually woke Lily, causing her to cry as well. But when Reba saw Jacob busy calming both her and Lily, she felt touched, and her sobbing subsided.

    ¡°Let me hold her,¡± Reba said, wiping her nose with a tissue.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure. I need to hold her.¡±

    Jacob carefully handed Lily to Reba, who cradled her daughter gently. The warmth of Lily¡¯s small body against her chest provided a surprising sense offort. Reba¡¯s tears slowed, and she focused on the simple act of holding her child.

    ¡°I have to contact Victoria,¡± Reba murmured, gently stroking Lily¡¯s soft forehead. ¡°Becky, it¡¯s better not to-¡±

    ¡°They¡¯ve crossed the line! This is no longer about pushing me out of Harvey¡¯s life; they want to crush me and drag me down to the bottom!¡± Reba ranted, her chest heaving.

    In the midst of their emotional conversation, the door suddenly opened from the outside, and Victoria stepped in with her chin held high.

    Reba stared in shock at Victoria¡¯s unexpected appearance.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Reba asked sharply.

    Victoria nced briefly at Jacob and then flipped her long hair. ¡°Go far away from here, to a ce where you can¡¯t be found. That is if you still care about your life and your daughter¡¯s life,¡± she whispered, her eyes glinting with hatred.

    Jacob stiffened, his protective instincts ring up as he stepped closer to Reba and Lily. ¡°What are you talking about, Victoria?¡± he demanded, his voice low and controlled, but with an edge of anger.

    Victoria smirked, her eyes never leaving Reba¡¯s. ¡°You think this is a game, don¡¯t you, Becky? But for your information, we don¡¯t y games. We destroy obstacles. And right

    +71%

    Chapter o

    now, you are the biggest obstacle in our way.¡±

    Reba shook her head in disbelief. ¡°Why? never did anything wrong! Why?¡±

    Victoria¡¯s expression softened for a brief moment, a flicker of something almost like sympathy crossing her face before it hardened again. ¡°It¡¯s not about what you did, Becky. It¡¯s about power, control, and keeping things in the family. You were never meant to be part of our world. ept that and leave while you still can.¡±

    1211 The Aug 15 L

 BIT 61

    ¡°What kind of family are you dealing with, Becky?¡± Jacob muttered as he watched Victoria¡¯s back slowly disappear behind the door.

    Reba just looked down at Lily¡¯s face in silence. She felt very angry and helpless at the same time. ¡°Um, Jacob¡­¡±

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Jacob turned, surprised.

    ¡°Um, could you go see Cathy for me?¡± Reba asked without looking at Jacob.

    ¡°What about Lily?¡± Jacob asked, confused..

    Reba looked up and smiled. ¡°I feel better already. I¡¯ll take care of her.¡±

    Jacob stared at Reba hesitantly for a moment, considering refusing her request, but finally, he nodded. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be right back.¡±

    After Jacob left, Reba picked up the inte.

    ¡°I need to leave the hospital early. Can you handle my paperwork?¡± she asked hastily. Shortly after, an on-duty doctor and nurse appeared to check her cesarean scar.

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯ll be okay recovering at home?¡± the doctor asked somewhat doubtfully.

    Reba nodded quickly; she didn¡¯t have much time. ¡°Alright, don¡¯t lift anything too heavy, and try not to run until your surgical scar is fully healed,¡± the doctor finally concluded.

    Reba ordered an Uber, then carried Lily, and quickly left the hospital. She had deliberately sent Jacob away because after what happened to Cathy, thest thing she wanted was to put Jacob in the same position.

    It took almost an hour until she finally arrived at JFK airport. She stood at the counter, randomly choosing the fastest flight, and got Boston as her destination. She paid in cash, avoiding digital traces as much as possible.

    Throughout the flight to Boston, Lily slept soundly without any fuss. Reba leaned against the airne seat, enduring the pain from her surgical wound as the effects of her pain medication began to wear off.

    I,

    Aug 15

    She knew her decision to go to Boston was impulsive, but she really couldn¡¯t fight Victoria any longer. Maybe it was time to let go of Harvey so that Lily could live safely.

    As the ne touched down in Boston, she felt a mix of relief and uncertainty. She clutched Lily tightly, feeling the weight of the new life she was about to embark on. She had no clear n, only the instinctual drive to protect her daughter and start anew. Reba kept her head down at the airport, hoping to avoid unwanted attention. She made her way to the exit and hailed a cab, giving the driver the address of a modest hotel she had found online. The hotel room was small but clean. Reba set Lily down on the bed and took a moment to breathe.

    She stared at herpletely dead phone, with no intention of recharging it. She just wanted to disappear from the world for a while. She was fed up with Victoria and Alicia, but what disappointed her the most was Harvey, who couldn¡¯t fight for their marriage. After ordering baby clothes, diapers, and milk online, shey down on the bed and slept soundly for the first time in the past few days.

    Despite Lily waking up multiple times during the night, the next morning Reba. woke up in a much better mood. Lily¡¯s smile seemed to give her every reason to keep going. She enjoyed her first-day taking care of Lily without any disturbances from the outside world. However, at night, she couldn¡¯t resist turning on her phone, which had been off all day.

    As soon as her phone turned on, she felt sad seeing dozens of missed calls from Jacob. but none from Harvey. While she was staring at her phone screen, lost in thought, Jacob called again. Hesitantly, she swiped the green button and put the phone to her ear.

    ¡°BECKY! WHERE ARE YOU?¡± Jacob barked, sounding so worried that Reba felt guilty for lying to him.

    ¡°I¡¯m in a safe ce, Reba replied, almost whispering.

    Jacob took a deep breath. ¡°You didn¡¯t even go back to your apartment. How could you leave without taking anything? Do you even have money, and what about Lily?¡± he asked impatiently.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba swallowed hard, realizing just how much Jacob cared about her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just did what I thought I had to do. You shouldn¡¯t be dragged into the drama of my life, so now just pretend you never knew me and continue your life as usual,¡± she said firmly. ¡°I care about you, so you can¡¯t just be selfish like that,¡± Jacob said just as firmly. Reba took a deep breath, suddenly reminded of Nichs because Jacob¡¯s attitude reminded

    DramaBox

    her of him. ¡°I have to go, bye, Jacob.¡±

    She quickly ended the call and tossed her phone onto the sofa. She covered her face. with both hands, all the events of the past few days reminding her of the first time Harvey divorced her. She wondered what Harvey was doing and if he had truly forgotten about her and Lily. Then, it all happened so quickly; her hand moved on its own to pick up her phone and dial Harvey¡¯s number. To her surprise, the call connected.

    Harvey¡¯s voice came through the line, calm but tense. ¡°Becky?¡±

    She hesitated, almost ending the call, but finally spoke. ¡°Harvey, it¡¯s me.¡±

    There was a long pause. ¡°Where are you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m safe, with Lily,¡± she replied softly. ¡°I just¡­ I needed your exnation. I¡¯ve signed the divorce papers, but I still need to know the truth! You lied to me about the reason, didn¡¯t you?¡± she asked in a trembling voice. ¡°I know your stepmother is behind all of this, you don¡¯t have to bother hiding the facts anymore!¡±

    There was a long silence before he answered.

    ¡°She is my biological mother. I¡¯ve done a DNA test, and my decision to divorce you has nothing to do with her. Take care of yourself and nevere back to New York City.¡±

    Reba felt like her body was floating. Harvey¡¯s voice sounded so certain when he said all that as if he meant it.

    ¡°Wait!¡± she cried before Harvey could end the call. ¡°What happened between us over the past year, was that real? Fine, forget about me, but what about Lily? She¡¯s your daughter! Do you really not care about her?¡± she asked, holding back the tears that were about to burst.

    ¡°I have to go.¡±

    Reba dropped her phone. She knew she shouldn¡¯t trust what Harvey said, but for some reason, she started to believe that he might still love Alicia.

 BIT 62

    Reba spent the night crying, even as she cradled Lily in her arms. The

    disappointment she felt in Harvey was deeper than anything she had experienced during their first divorce.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Lily, I shouldn¡¯t have brought you into this cruel world,¡± Reba whispered. through her tears. She couldn¡¯t understand why Harvey had changed so quickly, but she vowed never to look back, not even for revenge.

    The next morning, she woke up with swollen eyes. Her body felt light and weak from not eating since she arrived in Boston. She stroked Lily, who was still sound asleep after nursing two hours earlier and headed to the bathroom.

    She stared at her reflection in the mirror, feeling a deep pain in her chest and joints. ¡°It¡¯s all over,¡± she murmured, shaking her head. She repeatedly sshed her face with cold water until her shirt was soaked, but she felt a bit relieved afterward.

    At nine in the morning, after bathing Lily, she left the hotel for the first time. She entered a cafe and sat by the window bathed in sunlight.

    ¡°Good morning! Can I help you order?¡± asked a girl with a lip piercing. Reba nodded. ¡°Um, one English breakfast and a double espresso,¡± she replied after reading the menu on the wall not far from where she was sitting

    ¡°Okay!¡± the girl with the piercing replied cheerfully.

    Fifteen minutester, as Reba was forcing herself to eat her breakfast, a man suddenly walked by and stood watching Lily, who was sleeping in her stroller.

    Reba immediately stood up and clutched Lily¡¯s stroller tightly, on guard. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Excuse me, what are you doing?¡± she asked, ring at the man wearing sses.

    The man was startled but remained calm. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for being forward, but your baby looks yellow; she seems to have milk jaundice,¡± he said, pointing to Lily.

    Reba was shocked but didn¡¯t immediately believe him, so she continued to stand and clutch Lily¡¯s stroller tightly.

    ¡°Here¡¯s my business card. Pleasee as soon as possible; your baby needs to have her bilirubin levels checked, the man said, handing his card to Reba, who took it

    hesitantly.

    Reba nced at the business card and read silently, ¡°Parker Healthcare ¨C Sean Parker ¨C Pediatrician,¡± then blushed with embarrassment. She looked up to apologize to Sean, but he had already left.

    She abandoned her breakfast and focused on Lily. She observed Lily¡¯s face and felt guilty for not knowing that her daughter had milk jaundice<b>. </b>

    <b>¡°</b>Are <b>you </b>okay?¡± asked the girl with the piercing when Reba requested the bill.

    ¡°Yeah, um, sorry, do <b>you </b>know where Parker Healthcare <b>is</b><b>?</b>¡± Reba asked, cing money on the table. The girl with the piercing grinned. ¡°Of course! You just need to walk a little; it¡¯s right at the end of this block.¡±

    Reba quickly pushed the stroller to the end of the block. Fortunately, she had all her bank cards in her wallet, so she didn¡¯t worry about the consultation fees.

    She stepped into the clinic and was greeted by two friendly receptionists.

    ¡°Good afternoon, Ma¡¯am. Do you have an appointment?¡± one of them asked.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°Um, Dr. Parker told me toe for a consultation because my daughter, um, seems to have milk jaundice¡­¡±

    ¡°Ah! Alright, we will first register your baby. Name?¡±

    ¡°Lily¡­¡±

    ¡°Lily?¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, feeling nauseous at the thought of saying Specter as Lily¡¯sst. name. ¡°Harper, Lily Harper, she answered firmly.

    ¡°Alright, you can go to the third floor, where your daughter will be weighed and measured first, the receptionist said, handing a card to Reba.

    After the initial examination by a nurse, Reba met Dr. Parker, who had just entered his office.

    ¡°Your daughter is very lucky to have an attentive mother like you. You¡¯ve made the right decision by bringing her here,¡± Dr. Parker said when he saw Reba appear at his door.

    AAN Si §Òny nui 21

    Tu. Aug 15

    Reba winced, still feeling embarrassed for having thought poorly of him earlier.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about earlier, I didn¡¯t mean to-

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. Your reaction is very normal! You don¡¯t need to apologize,¡± Dr. Parker said cheerfully. He examined Lily carefully and sighed deeply afterward, making Reba tense up immediately.

    ¡°Is she okay?¡± Reba asked with a trembling voice. She was very afraid that something bad would happen to Lily.

    ¡°Her bilirubin level is quite high. For this level, we need to do phototherapy,¡± Dr. Parker exined in detail and carefully so Reba wouldn¡¯t panic, but his efforts failedpletely as Reba burst into tears<b>. </b>

    ¡°This is all my fault, I¡¯m a bad mother! I didn¡¯t take good care of her,¡± Reba said, covering her face with both hands.

    ¡°This is not your fault at <b>all</b>, it happens often, so don¡¯t worry, okay? Do you live nearby because Lily might need to stay for a few days until her bilirubin levels normalize, Dr. Parker said, leaning down, waiting for Reba to stop crying.

    Reba nodded. ¡°In a hotel, next to the cafe where we met earlier,¡± she answered, wiping her tears with her trembling hand.

    Dr. Parker nodded, ¡°Um, are you on vacation here or-¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m nning to move here but haven¡¯t found the right ce yet, so for now we¡¯re staying there,¡± Reba answered with more stable emotions.

    ¡°Alright, E will take Lily to the phototherapy room, you can go there and make sure your daughter is in good hands,¡± Dr. Parker said as if he could read Reba¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Thank you¡­¡±

    After feeding Lily and ensuring that she was indeed in the phototherapy box, Reba sat in the waiting room, pale as a ghost.

    Right at lunchtime, someone suddenly patted her shoulder, making her look up in surprise.

    ¡°You can wait at the hotel, Lily will be safe here,¡± Dr. Parker said, looking rxed without his doctor¡¯s coat.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I want to feed her every time she¡¯s hungry, she needs to know that I never leave her,¡± she said with a choked voice.

    Dr. Parker nodded his head, ¡°Well, at least you need to eat something. There¡¯s an Italian restaurant next door that serves the best gnhi, want to have lunch together?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba was silent, hesitant to ept the invitation.

    ¡°Some nurses will also eat there, don¡¯t worry this isn¡¯t a date invitation haha,¡± Dr. Parker said, noticing the wariness on Reba¡¯s face.

    Dr. Parker¡¯s words made Reba blush instantly. She was just about to decline, but h stomach suddenly

 BIT 63

    ¡°There isn¡¯t a table for five<b>, </b>so we¡¯ll have to sit separately. You two can sit there if you guys don¡¯t mind,¡± said E, pointing to an empty table for two in the restaurant¡¯s

    corner.

    Dr. Parker looked at Reba for approval. She nodded twice, ¡°No problem,¡± she said, although slightly disappointed.

    She sat across from Dr. Parker and felt slightly awkward since they had only met that morning. ¡°Are you ready to order?¡± Dr. Parker asked casually. Reba looked up from the menu she was reading, ¡°Yeah, um, Gnhi Al Pesto and mineral water, thanks,¡± she said to the waiter who was chewing gum.

    ¡°So, where are you from? You look familiar, like I¡¯ve seen you somewhere before but I can¡¯t remember,¡± murmured Dr. Parker as he tore off a piece of focia and stuffed it into his mouth.

    Reba¡¯s stomach churned instantly. Sometimes she forgot that she was an influencer with millions of followers. ¡°I have a prettymon face, maybe you mistook me for someone else,¡± she replied with a stiff smile.

    ¡°Yeah, maybe. So, you intended to stay here for good?¡± Dr. Parker asked curiously. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba nodded hesitantly, ¡°Maybe¡­¡±

    ¡°Well, you don¡¯t have to tell me anything if you don¡¯t want to,¡± Dr. Parker mumbled, sensing the difort on Reba¡¯s face. face

    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to be rude, I just-

    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay. You don¡¯t need to apologize, I understand,¡± said Dr. Parker with a small smile on his face. Soon their food arrived, and they ate in silence, Reba¡¯s mind too chaotic for a casual conversation.

    ¡°You can go back to the hotel and rest. Your baby will be fine<b>; </b>she is in good hands,¡± said Dr. Parker after they finished lunch and were walking out of the restaurant.

    Reba took a deep breath and nodded, ¡°Alright, please contact me if anything

    happens, and thanks for lunch,¡± she said. She tried to smile, but it turned out to be a stiff grin.

    ¡°Of course we will Dr. Parker nodded and then returned to the clinic, leaving Reba standing in front of the restaurant looking confused.

    Instead of returning to the hotel, Reba chose to spend her time walking aimlessly. She needed air to clear her mind. She bought an iced coffee and sat in a quiet park.

    She looked at her dead phone and suddenly felt like disappearing from the world.

    But what if Harvey looks for us someday<i>? </i>said a voice in her head.

    ¡°That will never happen! retorted another voice.

    With her chest pounding with emotion, she got up from her seat, crossed the street to a phone store just a few meters from the park, traded her phone for a new one, bought a backpack, withdrew all her money, and returned to the hotel three hourster, out of breath.

    ¡°Miss Harper?¡±

    Reba turned in surprise. In the hotel lobby, Dr. Parker stood looking confused.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Reba asked warily.

    ¡°I tried to contact you, but your phone was off,¡± said Dr. Parker quickly, knowing from the start that Reba seemed like someone with severe trauma.

    Reba swallowed, her face turning red instantly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I lost my phone. Is Lily okay?¡± she asked tensely.

    Dr. Parker nodded, ¡°Yeah, I just wanted to confirm there was a woman who imed to be your rtive and wanted to visit Lily, but I wasn¡¯t sure so-¡±

    ¡°WHAT?! Did she take her?¡± Reba approached Dr. Parker, her eyes widening in panic.

    Dr. Parker shook his head, ¡°Of course not, I immediately contacted the police because¡­¡± Reba frowned, ¡°Because what?¡± she demanded, slightly trembling.

    ¡°Well, don¡¯t be offended but since I first saw you, you looked like you were threatened by something. So there¡¯s a sheriff guarding my clinic, he might ask you a bit about your background¡­

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    Reba shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t trust anyone, including the police!¡± she shouted in panic. Suddenly she was ovee with fear. What if Victoria was just tricking her, telling her to stay away from Harvey, then secretly killing Lily?

    Dr. Parker gently touched Reba¡¯s shoulder ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯ve been through, but the sheriff I¡¯m talking about is my uncle, he¡¯s a very honest man, <b>I </b>swear on <i>my </i>life.¡±

    Reba clenched her trembling hands and quickly walked toward the clinic, carrying her heavy backpack.

    ¡°I can help you carry your backpack-¡±

    ¡°NO!¡± snapped Reba, moving her backpack to her chest and ring sharply at Dr. Parker.

    ¡°Whoa, okay! I was just trying to help,¡± replied Dr. Parker in surprise.

    Reba didn¡¯t respond, walking quickly to the clinic. Her mind was only on Lily; she was terrified of losing her baby. She knew Victoria would do anything to get rid of thest Specter heir.

    As she was about to enter the clinic, she ran into a middle¨Caged sheriff with the name Thomas Parker on his chest.

    ¡°You must be Reba Harper?¡± said Thomas when he saw Reba appear with Dr. Parker, his nephew.

    Reba nodded, ¡°Where is my baby?¡± she asked firmly.

    ¡°She is safe, you can see her and thene back here to talk to me,¡± said the sheriff, gesturing to E to apany Reba to the third floor.

    ¡°Miss Harper, Lily is fine. Doctor Parker did the right thing by calling the sheriff here,¡± said E, trying to calm Reba.

    ¡°E, do you remember the face of the person who came to visit Lily earlier?¡± Reba asked without stopping.

    E frowned, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t remember her face well but she had ginger hair and was very tall. She looked scared when Dr. Parker contacted the sheriff,¡± she replied excitedly, feeling like she was in a thriller movie scene.

    Reba was silent. She didn¡¯t know who the woman was, but Victoria could send

    125 Thu, Aug 15 IN LO

    anyone to follow her, and she was sure the woman was one of her people.

    ¡°That¡¯s Lily,¡± said E, pointing to one of the phototherapy boxes when they reached

    the room.

    Reba couldn¡¯t help but cry. She held the phototherapy box and sobbed

    uncontrobly, unable to imagine what would happen if Lily were taken from her.

    ¡°Is she okay?¡± she could hear Dr. Parker¡¯s voice from the entrance.

    Reba turned, ¡°I have to take Lily away from here, that woman cane back at any time,¡± she said firmly, ignoring the tears streaming down her face.

    ¡°But her bilirubin levels aren¡¯t stable yet, she still needs phototherapy,¡± Dr. Parker replied, walking closer.

    Reba looked at Lily, whose eyes were covered with gauze, and was filled with immense indecision. ¡°What should I do?¡± she whispered, squatting down and covering

    her face with her hands.

    Dr. Parker took a deep breath.

    ¡°Okay, listen. I have an idea but you have to trust me.¡±

    END

 BIT 64

    Reba nervously wrung her cold fingers. ¡°How can I trust someone I met less than 24 hours ago when people I¡¯ve known for years have betrayed me?¡± she muttered, uncertain of what to say.

    Dr. Parker sighed deeply. ¡°I don¡¯t know what kind of trauma has made you like this, but I truly have no ill intentions toward you or Lily.¡± He pulled out his phone and showed. Reba a picture on the screen. ¡°This is my mother¡¯s house, located in Belmont, not far from Cambridge.¡±

    Reba looked skeptically at therge white house, then nced up at Dr. Parker, waiting for him to continue.

    ¡°We can set up a phototherapy box for Lily here. I don¡¯t think my mother would mind. She¡¯s very active in charity work, so helping others is second nature to her. Once Lily¡¯s condition improves, you can figure out what to do next,¡± Dr. Parker said cautiously.

    ¡°You should trust him. I swear the Parker family <b>is </b>good; they even took me off the streets and made me who I am today. If it weren¡¯t for their charity foundation, I might have be a drug dealer by now,¡± E chimed in, trying to convince Reba.

    Reba closed her eyes for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll trust Lily¡¯s life with you.¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t use an ambnce; it¡¯s too conspicuous. We¡¯ll use a medical delivery van. Everyone, get ready in an hour,¡± the Sheriff, who had been eavesdropping, added.

    ¡°But before that, I need to verify your identity because I couldn¡¯t find anyone named Reba Harper matching your face. So, Miss who are you really?¡± the Sheriff asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Reba swallowed hard, embarrassed at being caught in a lie. She cleared her throat softly, ¡°Reba Specter.¡±

    E frowned, scrutinizing Reba¡¯s face closely before hurriedly typing something on her phone. A few secondster, she covered her mouth, ¡°Oh shit! You¡¯re Becky Blushoff! No wonder I felt I¡¯d seen you before, you¡¯re right there in front of me every day!¡± E eximed, pointing to a nearby building disying an advertisement with Reba¡¯s face on it.

    Reba gaped, not realizing her face was there. Dr. Parker was equally surprised. ¡°Ah,

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    The sale boat, we so as a time, we react neke sile destor.¡± Dm Parker

    Reba nodded, ¡°Well, whatever, thank you for not even thinking twice about helping me,¡± she said sincerely. <b>said </b>sincerely.

    Sean smiled, ¡°No need to thank me. Well, now that Lily is safe, let¡¯s go downstairs and chat with my mom and Uncle Tom for a bit.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± Reba replied, following Sean down to the dining room where Thomas was chatting with Ang while eatingsagna.

    ¡°Sit down, dear! I¡¯ll make you some chamomile tea, you must be very tense,¡± Ang said when she saw Rebae in. Thank you,¡± Reba replied, carefully pulling out a chair and sitting down, her cesarean scar suddenly throbbing in pain, likely from <b>exhaustion</b><b>. </b>

    ¡°Dear<b>, </b>may we know who¡¯s making you and Lily hide like this?¡± Thomas asked while chewing hissagna.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. She didn¡¯t want to show her emotions in front of them as they were still strangers.

    ¡°My mother<b>¨C</b>inw, I mean, my ex¨Cmother¨Cinw, Reba replied softly.

    ¡°Here, drink this while it¡¯s hot,¡± Ang said, cing a cup of chamomile tea in front of Reba. ¡°Thanks, Ang¡±

    ¡°Well, Becky. I know you don¡¯t want to tell us everything, but I¡¯m a Sheriff, and if your safety and Lily¡¯s are threatened, I¡¯m afraid I have to know the whole story, Thomas said after swallowing hisst bite ofsagna.

    Reba slowly sipped her chamomile tea, then the whole story flowed from her <b>lips</b>. She recounted everything without w, from her initial divorce with Harvey to the reason she ended up in Boston.

    ¡°Oh, dear! This must be so hard for you!¡± Ang eximed, looking at Reba with pity.

    ¡°I just looked at your social media. You could use your influence to expose all your ex- mother¨Cinw¡¯s crimes, couldn¡¯t you?¡± Sean suddenly said.

    Reba sighed. ¡°I never really had valid proof. They¡¯d think I was making it up<b>¡­</b>¡±

    ¡°So your ex¨Chusband is from a billionaire family? What was his mother¡¯s name again?¡± Ang asked, frowning.

    D

    DramaBox

    Anga¡¯s fra dinegemed as if aging to recall something is there a pure of her?¡±

    Whom the sea fumus family, we just need to Google them.¡± Sean inregiered searching fte Vastra Spemer¡¯s name coline.

    ine Scan showed his phone screen to Ang who immedinely recoiled in shock

    ¡°Are you sure her name is Vicor She looks like someone I knew in the past¡­¡± T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    <b>Chapter </b><b>65 </b>

 BIT 65

    <b>Chapter </b><b>65 </b>

    Reba looked up, startled. ¡°Are you sure we¡¯re talking about the same person?¡±

    Ang shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not certain. Her face looks a bit different, but I¡¯m almost sure she used to be my neighbor,¡± she said, still staring intently at the photo of Victoria.

    ¡°You mean your neighbor in Saint Michaels, Mom?¡± Sean interjected, his brow furrowed.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Saint Michaels? Marnd?¡±

    Ang nodded. ¡°Yeah. What? Is your mother¨Cinw from there too?¡± she asked, handing Sean¡¯s phone back.

    ¡°As far as I know, she¡¯s from Marnd, but I don¡¯t know exactly which city. Is she an only child? Your old friend?¡± Reba inquired, hoping that the person Ang mentioned was indeed Victoria, to help piece together the scattered puzzle.

    ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s an only child, but her name isn¡¯t Victoria; it¡¯s Via, Via Coleman. Do you know your mother¨Cinw¡¯s maiden name?¡±

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I only know she¡¯s an orphan and an only child,¡± she replied, beginning to doubt if they were talking about the same person.

    ¡°Well, Via was also an only child, but her mother was still alive when we were neighbors. After I moved here and married Sean¡¯s father, I heard her house burned down. Rumor has it Via set the house on fire, killing her mother and stepfather, but I don¡¯t know¡­ This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ????

    Reba felt a shiver run down her spine. ¡°That sounds like Victoria¡­¡±

    ¡°Okay, enough guessing! I¡¯ll find out about it. So, Becky, stay here until your daughter gets better. Don¡¯t leave the house; you can sit in the backyard if you get bored,¡± said Thomas, standing up.

    ¡°Sean, call me if anything happens. You¡¯re not going back to the clinic, are you?¡±

    Sean nced at Reba briefly before shaking his head. ¡°I¡¯ll stay home for a while; another doctor is covering for me.¡±

    Reba was a bit surprised and felt bad for causing trouble for everyone.

    <b>12 </b>

    After Thomas left, Ang suddenly shouted while pointing at the TV she had just turned on. ¡°Look, Becky!¡±

    Reba and Scan rushed to the TV room and were shocked to see Reba¡¯s face on the screen.

    *Influencer Becky¨CBlushoff, or Reba Specter, is reported to have run off with her daughter from her marriage to Harvey Specter after Harvey filed for divorce for the second time! Sources say that an old me rekindled between Harvey and Alicia Fox, causing their divorce!

    Reba felt her whole body tremble at the sight of the news, but Ang quickly hugged her and led her to the couch.

    ¡°You did the best by staying away from them. You and Lily deserve a better life,¡± Ang said gently.

    ¡°The thing is, I still can¡¯t believe Harvey would do something so cruel for the second time. He can¡¯t be that powerless, can he? He could have done something to fight for us, but he chose not to. Maybe he really does still love Alicia and wants to be with her, Reba said, holding back tears.

    Sean took a deep breath and sank onto the couch. ¡°So, Victoria wants to take control of the Specter family fortune, right? But if Harvey is her son, why go through all that trouble? And Harvey¡¯s father, isn¡¯t he still alive? I still don¡¯t understand Victoria¡¯s true motive,¡± he mused with a deep frown.

    ¡°Harvey¡¯s father is just an essory; he never yed any significant role. Before Harvey¡¯s grandfather died, he entrusted all his wealth to Harvey, while the others only got small portions. I¡¯ve never read the will, but I think there¡¯s a reason why Victoria didn¡¯t get rid of Harvey because I¡¯m almost sure Harvey isn¡¯t her biological son,¡± Reba said, staring nkly at the TV, which was still showing other Hollywood celebrity gossip.

    ¡°Oh Becky, this divorce isn¡¯t the end of the disaster. If Victoria is after the inheritance, she won¡¯t stop until she ensures that Lily is out of the list of heirs,¡± Ang blurted out, then covered her mouth as if shocked by her own words.

    Reba swallowed hard. She already knew that fact, but hearing it from someone else made her feel very scared.

    ¡°Mom, you¡¯re scaring her,¡± Sean said, noticing the change in Reba¡¯s expression.

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    ¡°Oh dear, I¡¯m sorry!d didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡± Ang said, holding Reba¡¯s cold hands.

    Reba gave a faint smile. Suddenly, she heard Lily crying through the baby monitor Sean had ced on the dining table earlier.

    ¡°Um. Ang, I¡¯m going upstairs to check on Lily. Thank you so much for the tea,¡± Reba said, standing up and smiling warmly at Ang.

    ¡°Anytime, dear! Make yourself at home, okay? Please, don¡¯t hesitate to do anything, feel free!¡± Ang replied cheerfully.

    I¡¯ll check on Lily too; she might need something.¡± Sean said, standing up as well. Reba turned around, surprised, momentarily forgetting that Sean was a pediatrician.

    ¡°Yes, Becky? Is there a problem?¡± Sean asked awkwardly.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°No, she replied, then quickly ran towards the stairs, but Sean suddenly grabbed her hand. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t run too fast; your cesarean stitches¡­¡±

    Reba nodded awkwardly. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right.

    They entered the room together to check on Lily. ¡°I think she¡¯s hungry, Sean

    murmured as he sprayed disinfectant on his hands, then opened the phototherapy box and took Lily out.

    ¡°Hey, little pumpkin, you¡¯re hungry, huh?¡± he cooed like a father talking to his daughter.

    Reba was stunned at the scene in front of her. For a moment, she imagined that Sean was Harvey. She felt very sad because Harvey had never even held Lily since she was born.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Sean called, waving his hand in front of Reba¡¯s face.

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Reba looked up, surprised.

    ¡°The milk, I think she is hungry, Sean said amidst Lily¡¯s loud cries.

    ¡°Oh, of course! Sorry, I¡¯ll be quick!¡± Reba eximed. She closed her eyes tightly, then shook her head, pushing away all thoughts of Harvey that filled her mind.

    While preparing milk for Lily, she secretly watched Sean cradling Lily with warmth as if they had known each other for a long time.

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    ¡°You seem very used to taking care of babies, Reba murmured while shaking the milk bottle in her hand. ¡°Well, of course you are, you¡¯re a pediatrician,¡± she added, feeling silly about her own statement.

    Sean chuckled, ¡°That¡¯s not the only reason,¡± he replied without taking his eyes off Lily.

    Reba frowned. ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°I once had a little baby girl,¡± Sean said as he handed Lily over to Reba.

    Reba frowned. ¡°What do you mean? Where is she now?¡±

    Sean sighed deeply, his face suddenly gloomy. ¡°She died.¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock.

    ¡°What?¡±

 BIT 66

    ¡°It was three years ago,¡± Sean said as he sank into the sofa, watching Reba feed Lily with a bottle.

    ¡°My wife, Maggie, gave birth to a baby girl who looked just like me. We named her Bea.. We were so happy, it felt like our lives were truly perfect, but¡­¡± Sean took a deep breath, his face bing somber. In front of him, Reba waited tensely for his story.

    ¡°But that happiness didn¡¯tst long. I still vividly remember that terrible night. I was on my way back home from the clinic when suddenly I got a phone call from Maggie. She said she had to go to the hospital immediately because her father had a heart attack. I told her to wait a bit, but she refused. She drove hurriedly with Bea in the baby seat, and,¡± Sean swallowed hard, his hands clenched into fists. He always became emotional when recalling the incident.

    ¡°Sean, you don¡¯t have to tell me if it¡¯s too difficult for you,¡± Reba interjected gently.

    ¡°And a few minutester, I got a call from the police saying Maggie had an ident. A drowsy truck driver hit her car. Maggie and Bea, they died on the spot,¡± Sean finished his story with difficulty.

    Reba stared in shock. ¡°Oh my God, I¡¯m sorry, Sean¡­¡±

    Sean shook his head. ¡°It was all my fault. I should have driven faster. I¡¯mpletely useless,¡± he said, his eyes staring nkly at the window.

    ¡°None of it was your fault. Don¡¯t me yourself,¡± Reba said, suddenly feeling that her problems were trivialpared to what Sean had experienced.

    She looked at Lily and saw that she had fallen soundly asleep. She gently ced Lily back into the phototherapy box after kissing her carefully. Sean stood up, checking the phototherapy box to make sure the machine was working properly.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t slept at home since then and chose to spend my time at the clinic. This is the first time I¡¯ve left the clinic after almost three years of spending my nights there,¡± Sean said without looking at Reba.

    ¡°What? So for the past three years, you¡¯ve spent seven days a week, twenty¨Cfour hours a day at the clinic?¡± Reba eximed in disbelief.

    ¡°Shh, you¡¯ll wake Lily,¡± Sean said, putting his finger to his lips.

    Chapter 66:

    Reba winced and followed Scan out of the room. ¡°Can I ask you something?¡± she asked after closing the door. Sean nodded, ¡°Go ahead.¡±

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°What made you stay here and not go back to the clinic? I mean, after three years of never doing this, I feel like I¡¯ve disrupted your routine,¡± she said carefully.

    Sean smiled. ¡°I do it for Lily, that¡¯s it. Well, I think you need a proper rest. Just let me know if there¡¯s anything with Lily and don¡¯t forget to feed her every two hours,¡± he said casually.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said sincerely.

    ¡°No worries, good night!¡± Sean patted Reba¡¯s back lightly and then went into his room next to the guest room.

    Reba sighed deeply. She wanted to sleep but suddenly felt very hungry. She decided to go down to the kitchen, hoping to find something to eat before going to bed.

    ¡°Hey, Becky!¡± Ang greeted, still busy wiping the kitchen table.

    ¡°Ang, you haven¡¯t gone to bed yet?¡±

    Ang smiled. ¡°I¡¯m waiting for my bread to finish baking. Tomorrow is my first breakfast with Sean in almost three years. I¡¯m so excited!¡± she said, sping her hands together.

    Reba smiled sadly.

    ¡°Oh, you must be confused, I shouldn¡¯t

    ¡°Sean already told me. The past three years must have been very hard for all of you,¡± Reba interjected cautiously.

    Ang sighed deeply and nodded. ¡°It has been, especially for Sean. He¡¯s brought some of his patients here for me to take care of, but this is the first time he¡¯s stayed here. Even all the clinic staff were surprised to hear about it,¡± she said, smiling with teary eyes.

    cared. didn¡¯t know what to say because, honestly, she felt very touched that s¡­

    much

    for Lil..

    who was just a patient to him.

    Suddenly, Ang took Reba¡¯s hand. ¡°Thank you, Becky. Not that I don¡¯t empathize with your problems, but thank you for bringing my son home,¡± she said, almost crying.

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    ¡°1. I didn¡¯t do anything, you shouldn¡¯t thank the Reba replied, gently stroking Ang¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Yeah, I know, but still, Ang said, still smiling ¡°Are you hungry?¡± she asked, a bit surprised when she heard Reba¡¯s stomach growl.

    Reba winced in embarrassment and then nodded, ¡°Yeah, do you have something to rat? Bread or anything,¡± she said, scratching the back of her head.

    ¡®Sit down! I¡¯ll make you some Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. It¡¯ll only take five minutes since I already have boiled pasta, Ang said, not epting any refusal.

    Sorry for troubling you,¡± Reba said, embarrassed.

    Ang waved her hand dismissively. ¡°No worries!¡±

    smell something delicious!¡± Sean eximed, suddenly appearing behind Reba.

    Sean? I thought you were already asleep, Reba said, surprised. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    gan shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to sleep in a new ce,¡± he said casually.

    Oh,e on, Scan! You grew up here,¡± Ang interjected, pretending to be annoyed.

    an immediately went to Ang and gave her a quick hug. ¡°I know, Mom. I¡¯m sorry. nyway, can you make another portion for me?¡± he asked, smiling broadly, Ang just affed withughter.

    oth of you, wait in the backyard. I don¡¯t like people watching me cook, Ang said, ishing Sean away.

    et¡¯s go, Becky, I¡¯ll show you the backyard!¡± Sean said cheerfully. Reba nodded and lowed him.

    an stopped in front of a drawer, opened it, and took out a pack of cigarettes, making <i>ba </i>frown in surprise. ¡°You smoke?¡±

    metimes¡±

    at you¡¯re a doctor, Reba said, confused,

    inughed. ¡°Well, I never smoke at the clinic or while I¡¯m working. Don¡¯t worry, I n¡¯t expose my patients to nicotine, he replied half¨Cjokingly.

    Chapter no

    Reba winced, but her attention was divertel to the garden in the backyard, especially to the fountain statue surrounded by emerald green lights.

    ¡°Is that-¡±

    ¡°Yeah, Maggie and Bea, Sean interjected, looking at the statue of a woman holding a baby with sad eyes.

    Reba gaped in disbelief. She turned to Sean and felt envious because Harvey did not love her and Lily as much as Sean loved Maggie and Bea. ¡°Are you going to continue living like this?¡± she asked, curious.

    Sean shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I¡¯d feel guilty if I lived normally. Oh, let¡¯s not talk about me. What about you? What will you do after Lily gets better?¡± he asked, turning to look at Reba.

    Reba shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m still figuring it out,¡± she answered honestly. She just wanted to live in peace, but that seemed difficult to achieve.

    ¡°Can I suggest something dramatic?¡± Sean asked, slipping a cigarette between his lips. Reba frowned. ¡°Dramatic? Let¡¯s hear how dramatic it is,¡± she said, curious.

    ¡°It¡¯s just an idea, so don¡¯t take it too seriously. Um, maybe you could pretend to get married and change Lily¡¯sst name to your fake husband¡¯s. You know, make Victoria feel at ease because one threat is gone,¡± Sean replied casually.

    Reba was stunned for a moment, then snorted. ¡°I don¡¯t know who would want to be my fake husband and endanger his life, she muttered absently.

    ¡°Me.¡±

    Reba stared in shock.

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 BIT 67

    ¡°Aglio Olio tuna is ready!¡± Ang suddenly appeared with two tes of spaghetti in her hands.

    ¡°Thanks, Mom! I¡¯ll get the drinks!¡± shouted Sean, quickly putting out his cigarette and heading to the kitchen, leaving Reba still in shock from what she had just heard. ¡°Becky, all good?¡± Ang asked as she ced the two tes of spaghetti on the table.

    Reba nodded awkwardly. ¡°Thanks, Ang, she said sincerely. She pulled out a chair and sat down, hoping Ang would go back inside so she could ask Sean about his earlier statement. She felt uneasy, wondering if Sean had other intentions towards her even though they had just met.

    ¡°Mom, do you want a drink too?¡± Sean asked, holding two sses of cold water.

    ¡°No. I¡¯ll go back to the kitchen, my bread will be ready soon. You guys enjoy your meal!¡± Ang said. She patted Sean¡¯s shoulder lightly and went back inside.

    Sean pulled out a chair in front of Reba and sat down casually as if there hadn¡¯t been an awkward conversation between them before.

    Reba cleared her throat softly, ¡°Um, about what you said earlier-

    ¡°I was just joking, sorry I made you ufortable, Sean interrupted with a grimace.

    Reba sighed in relief. She was about to take a bite of her spaghetti when Sean suddenly said, ¡°But I was serious about be dramatic idea.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Reba frowned in confusion.

    ¡°This is just a casual conversation between friends, okay? So don¡¯t be too tense and eat your spaghetti before Lily wakes up,¡± Sean said, shoveling spaghetti into his mouth.

    ¡°Do you mean pretending to get married again and changing Lily¡¯sst name?¡± Reba asked, hesitantly taking a bite of her spaghetti.

    and let you pursue your

    r career

    Sean nodded, ¡°I believe it would stabilize your situation without needing to hide from the world. Doesn¡¯t Lily deserve a normal life? You¡¯re fortunate that Lily is still a baby and doesn¡¯t understand what¡¯s happening right now; at least she won¡¯t have to endure deep trauma when she grows up,¡± he said earnestly, despite eating. His face was quite serious as he spoke.

    D DramaBox

    Sean¡¯s words struck a chord with Reba. Not because she was offended, but because she felt guilty for making Lily a victim of her selfishness.

    ¡°Well, I just can¡¯t imagine how Harvey will react when he hears that I¡¯ve remarried,¡± Reba muttered tly.

    Sean sighed deeply. ¡°Becky, if he truly loved you, he wouldn¡¯t let you and Lily go through all this alone. Even if he was under his mother¡¯s threat, he should at least ensure you went to a safe ce, but he did nothing. So my advice is, try to think more logically for Lily¡¯s sake.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I¡¯ll think about itter, Reba said, unable to refute because all of Sean¡¯s words sounded very true.

    ¡°Are you going back to the clinic tomorrow?¡± Reba asked, trying to change the topic.

    ¡°Of course not, Lily needs my supervision. Besides, there are plenty of doctors on duty there, the clinic will be fine without me,¡± Sean replied lightly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve really burdened you and your mom, I¡¯m sorry,¡± Reba said, feeling guilty.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t be sorry,¡± Sean responded, shaking his head. Just as Reba finished her dinner, the sound of Lily crying came from the baby monitor.

    ¡°She¡¯s awake, I¡¯ll give her milk and put her to sleep. Good night,¡± Reba said, getting up from her seat. ¡°Leave the tes, I¡¯ll clean upter, just go see Lily!¡± Sean called out as Reba was about to clear the table.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Reba said, hurrying inside and running up the stairs to the guest room <b>that </b>had be her temporary room.

    <b>That </b>night, after feeding Lily, Reba sat in deep thought, reflecting on Sean¡¯s words that rang so true. I¡¯m not guilty, why should I hide?¡® she pondered. She struggled to get <b>a </b>good night¡¯s sleep as Lily woke up and cried several times.

    The next morning, Reba was jolted awake by a loud knocking on her door. Reflexively, she jumped up and opened it quickly. ¡°Sean?<b>¡± </b>

    ¡°I heard Lily crying on the baby monitor in my room for almost five minutes. Is everything okay?¡± Sean asked, his face full of concern.

    Reba was shocked to realize Lily was crying loudly. ¡°Oh God! I slept so soundly, I didn¡¯t even hear her crying. Stupid me!¡± she eximed, berating herself. She quickly

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    ran to the phototherapy box and lifted Lily out.

    Tm sorry, baby, I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she said, half¨Ccrying.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make her a bottle,¡± Sean said, swiftly grabbing a bottle from the table.

    ¡°Thanks, Sean, Reba said sincerely. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t knocked on my door, I might still be sleeping soundly. I¡¯m really a bad mother,¡± she rambled, unable to hold back her

    tears.

    Sean gently rubbed her shoulder. ¡°You must be exhausted, this ismon for new mothers. It¡¯s very normal, so don¡¯t me yourself,¡± he said, handing the bottle to Reba.

    ¡°I¡¯lle back to take blood from Lily¡¯s heel to check her bilirubin levels,¡± Sean said before stepping out of the room.

    Reba slumped onto the sofa. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, baby, mommy¡¯s really sorry,¡± she said, looking at Lily¡¯s face with guilt.

    After feeding Lily and changing her diaper, Reba quickly cleaned herself in the bathroom and changed into a dress Ang had lent her. A few minutester, Sean returned with a box of equipment in his hand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take a little blood from her heel, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m quite skilled,¡± Sean said, half- joking. Reba grimaced, standing a bit away from Sean and Lily because she couldn¡¯t bear to see her tiny baby pricked by a needle.

    She watched Sean skillfully draw blood from Lily¡¯s heel without making her cry, and reflexively pped her hands. ¡°Wow, you really are an expert!¡±

    Sean snorted withughter, cing Lily¡¯s blood sample into a tube and sealing it tightly in a box. ¡°I¡¯ll send this to the clinic,¡± Sean said, walking toward the door.

    Reba watched Sean¡¯s back and suddenly shouted, ¡°Sean!¡±

    Sean stopped and turned to look at Reba curiously. ¡°Yeah?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, clenching her hands, trying to convince herself of what she was abour

    to say.

    ¡°I¡¯ve thought about your dramatic idea all night-¡±

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    ¡°And I think it could be the way out of my deadlock, but are you serious about offering

    to be my pretend husband?¡±

 BIT 68

    Sean shrugged. ¡°Only if you want to, I mean, you need someone who definitely won¡¯t fall in love with you, right?¡±

    Reba was quite surprised by his response. Did he think she wasn¡¯t attractive enough for him to say something like that? Not that she expected Sean to fall in love with her, but in her entire life, only Harvey had ever said something simr to her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t take offense; my inability to fall in love with you has nothing to do with just me and my wounds,¡± Sean rambled before Reba could say anything.

    you. It¡¯s

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, Ipletely understand. Um, let¡¯s talk about itter,¡± she replied, feeling a bit awkward. She never imagined discussing such things with someone she had just met.

    Sean nodded. ¡°Okay. Um, I have to go downstairs; a courier is waiting for me,¡± he said, lifting his right hand which was holding the box containing Lily¡¯s blood samples.

    After Sean left, Reba closed her door and went to check on Lily, who was sleeping soundly.

    ¡°Good girl, we¡¯ll get through this together, okay? I promise to give you a normal life,¡± she said, her voice choked with emotion.

    ¡°My daughter must never know that her father abandoned her, not until she¡¯s old

    enough to understand. You¡¯ll regret your decision, Harvey.

    After making sure Lily wasfortably sleeping in her phototherapy box, Reba headed downstairs, her stomach growling as the ¡®delicious aroma of omelet wafted through the air.

    She turned toward the kitchen and found Ang busy setting the table. ¡°Good morning, Ang!¡±

    Ang looked up and smiled broadly. ¡°Good morning, dear. Look at you, that dress suits you perfectly!¡± she eximed, nodding at the dress Reba was wearing.

    ¡°Yeah, thanks to you. Is there anything I can help with?¡± Reba walked over and surveyed the dining table.

    ¡°Um, do you know how to use the coffee machine?¡± Ang asked.

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    Reba nodded, ¡°Of course!¡±

    ¡°Could you make a double espresso for Sean and a cappino for me? And make something for yourself too of course!¡± Ang said cheerfully.

    Reba smiled and nodded. She quickly moved to the coffee bar and started the machine with practiced case.

    ¡°Mom! Did you just hire a barista?¡± Sean joked as he entered, impressed by Reba¡¯s coffee¨Cmaking skills.

    Rebaughed. ¡°When will the test results be ready?¡± she asked without turning around.

    ¡°If theb isn¡¯t busy, we should have them in less than an hour. You look cool behind. the coffee machine,¡± Seanmented, pulling up a stool at the coffee bar.

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯ve done almost every job, being a barista was one of them,¡± Reba replied casually, feeling more rxed than she had in days. Ang and Sean made her feel safe andfortable.

    ¡°You have everything a woman could want! Beauty, brains<b>, </b>and independence!¡± Ang eximed, emerging from the kitchen with a tter of cold cuts and cheese.

    Reba winced. ¡°You¡¯re too kind. I¡¯m not that perfect,¡± she replied honestly.

    ¡°You don¡¯t judge yourself; others do,¡± Sean interjected, agreeing with Ang¡¯s praise of Reba¡¯s qualities.

    ¡°If I were so perfect, I wouldn¡¯t have been dumped twice by the same person,¡± Reba replied tly.

    ¡°It has nothing to do with you. It¡¯s just him and his indecisive personality. You might see him as strong, but in reality, he¡¯s much weaker than you. So don¡¯t waste a single day mourning your divorce, it¡¯s such a waste of time!¡± Sean said casually, but his words pierced Reba¡¯s heart.

    ¡°Sean is right, Becky. Just because you were divorced twice by the same person doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯re worthless. Now, if you¡¯re done with the coffee machine,e here! You have to try my famous soft sourdough!¡± Ang said cheerfully.

    Reba quickly served a cup of double espeso to Sean and brought two cappinos for herself and Ang to the dining table. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    ¡°Wow! This is the best sourdough I¡¯ve ever had!¡± Reba eximed after taking a bite of the warm sourdough.

    Ang beamed. ¡°I told you, right?¡± she said proudly.

    Sean just grinned, listening to his mother and Reba¡¯s conversation.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since this house felt this alive,¡± Ang suddenly remarked, causing Reba and Sean to look at her in surprise.

    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t start. Okay?¡± Sean interjected, knowing where the conversation was headed.

    Ang sighed deeply. ¡°Sean, it¡¯s time you leave the clinic and live a normal life. I could die anytime, and I don¡¯t want to die regretting seeing my only son live in past regrets and suffering,¡± she said, her eyes welling up with tears<b>. </b>

    ¡°Mom, I think we should keep this conversation between us, okay? We don¡¯t want to burden Reba with something that¡¯s not her concern,¡± Sean said, trying to keep his tone gentle to avoid hurting Ang¡¯s feelings.

    ¡°You¡¯re right! Okay, Becky, take this! You need to eat a lot!¡± Ang said, cing cold cuts and cheese on Reba¡¯s te.

    After breakfast, Ang left to deliver fruit to the churchmunity nearby, while Reba and Sean sat in the backyard.

    ¡°So, do you have a n? I mean, about my crazy idea that I told youst night,¡± Sean asked, folding his arms across his chest

    Reba nearly choked on the ice cream in her mouth. She cleared her throat and took a sip of water before answering. ¡°Um, I thought about your words all night. You¡¯re right, Lily shouldn¡¯t suffer trauma because of her parent¡¯s mistakes. So, I¡¯m considering giving her a normal family.¡±

    Sean nodded. ¡°I know this sounds strange, butst night, I did some research about you,¡± he said cautiously.

    Reba looked up, staring at Sean sharply.

    ¡°Whoa, easy. It¡¯s not what you think. Um, h Nichs Be-¡±

    .o I put this? I¡¯ve heard about you and

    Chapter

    ¡°What?¡± Hearing Nichs¡¯s name made Reba¡¯s hair stand on end. Honestly, he the reason Reba was so afraid of involving a new man in her life,

    Sean cleared his throat. ¡°I just want to assure you that I will never be like him; he said, For the first time, their eyes met and held an intense ga

    Reba swallowed hard. ¡°Then exin to me why you¡¯re offering to be my fake husband even though we¡¯ve just met less than 48 hours, she demanded.

    Sean took a deep breath. ¡°So here¡¯s the thing

 BIT 69

    ¡°If only thought about myself, of course, I would prefer to spend my life in the clinic. and forever punish mys. quilt, but there¡¯s one person in this world whose happiness still matters to me, and that person is

    ¡°Your mother,¡± Reba interjected. She finally understood what was going on in Sean¡¯s mind and why he offered to be her pretend husband.

    Sean sighed deeply and nodded. ¡°My mother always pretends to be happy, but she¡¯s very sad to see me like this. I know that, but I can¡¯t do anything about it. She just wants to see me live again, but I¡¯m almost sure I can¡¯t do it, not without Maggie and Bea,¡± he said, his voice choked with emotion.

    Reba could feel the emotions in every word Sean spoke. ¡°Um, so, what¡¯s your n?¡± she asked, curious.

    wer

    Sean lit a cigarette and took a deep drag. ¡°Well, we can register the marriage and go back to New York. No need to hide from the Specter family or anyone else. Lily will grow up with myst name, and I¡¯ll make it clear to Victoria to stop bothering you,¡± he replied calmly.

    ¡°The question is, how long? How long will we live in this charade?¡± Reba couldn¡¯t imagine what kind of life she would be living.

    ¡°Until Lily is old enough to understand. We¡¯ll separate amicably and co¨Cparent to keep her mental stability intact,¡± Sean quickly answered as if the n was already well thought out in his head.

    Reba stared at Sean for a long time, wondering if he had any traits simr to Nichs.

    ¡°Don¡¯t even think that I have anything inmon with Nichs Bet. I¡¯m not a psychopath like him,¡± Sean snapped, as if he could read Reba¡¯s mind.

    Reba gaped in shock, opening her mouth and then closing it again. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m just

    ¡°Don¡¯t be sorry. I know the trauma you experienced must be very deep, making it hard for you to trust new people, and that¡¯spletely normal. So, if you have doubts, then don¡¯t listen to my words,¡± Sean said calmly.

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    Rebern was shot to respond when the heard Lily crying loudly on the baby monitor. ¡°Oh. Lily! Sorry, let¡¯s talk againter, she said jumping up and running inside.

    Rebeca thought about Sean¡¯s words while holding Lily. She turned to the mirror, seeing her <b>pale </b>reflection, as if the had lost all her charm. Suddenly, there was a knock

    on the door. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    ¡°Come in!¡±

    The door opened, and Sean stepped inside. The test results are out.¡±

    Reba stared, ¡°And?¡±

    ¡°Lily can sleep in a regr bed instead of the phototherapy box; her bilirubin levels are normal, Sean said happily. He looked down at Lily, and Reba could see the joy on his face as if he were looking at his own daughter.

    ¡°You miss Maggie and Bea so much, don¡¯t you?¡± Reba murmured.

    ¡°Of course, not a day goes by that I don¡¯t think about them. So, have you made a decision?¡±

    Reba cleared her throat nervously. Honestly, she couldn¡¯t imagine how the charade they would yter, especially since it involved Lily. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Can you give me time to think? Well, I know I have to leave soon because Lily is getting better, but-

    ¡°Don¡¯t say <b>that</b>! You can stay here as long as you want. I might have to go back to the clinic soon, though. You know what? Forget our silly n. Maybe everything won¡¯t go as smoothly as we imagined,¡± Sean said calmly.

    Reba looked up in surprise, not expecting Sean to say that. ¡°Um, I don¡¯t know, Sean. Everything feels too rushed. I need to think it over carefully,¡± she said uncertainly.

    ¡°Ipletely understand. Alright, I¡¯ll cook lunch for us all. Bye, Lily!¡± Sean waved at Lily and then walked out of the room.

    Reba took a deep breath. She shook her head, trying to think clearly about the long- term consequences if she agreed to Sean¡¯s silly idea, but no matter how hard she tried. to convince herself, the doubt always remained.

    ¡°Lily, my love, what should mommy do?¡± she murmured, looking at Lily and gently stroking her tiny hand.

    + 70%

    Chapter

    An hourter, she went down to the dining room and stopped on the stairs when she heard a conversation between Sean and Ang.

    ¡°Please, Sean, you have to free yourself from that guilt. Maggie and Bea, they surely. don¡¯t want to see you living like this,¡± Ang said, almost crying.

    Sean sighed deeply. ¡°Mom, what¡¯s wrong with being a doctor for life? Come on, you have to start epting that this is who I am,¡± Sean replied gently.

    ¡°You spend your whole life in the clinic. Do you think I will be okay with that? You need counseling, for God¡¯s sake, Sean! Heal yourself. Everything that happened to Maggie and Bea wasn¡¯t your fault!¡± Ang¡¯s voice suddenly became softer.

    ¡°Mom? Mom? Are you okay?¡± Sean shouted in panic.

    Reba hurried down the stairs and approached them. She was shocked to see Ang clutching her left chest. ¡°Oh my God, Sean, what happened?¡±

    Sean quickly carried Ang andid her on the sofa. ¡°Becky, please take care of her. I need to get her medicine from her room,¡± he said quickly.

    Reba nodded, holding Ang¡¯s hand and looking at her worriedly. ¡°Ang, just breathe. You¡¯ll be okay, alright?¡± she said gently.

    Ang closed her eyes. ¡°I no longer care if I live or die. Can you imagine, Becky, how it would feel if Sean were Lily and you were me? What¡¯s the point of living if my son is living in suffering?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, suddenly feeling guilty for rejecting Sean¡¯s idea that could actually be a win¨Cwin solution for them.

    Not long after, Sean appeared, half¨Crunning, with the medicine in his hand. ¡°Here, Mom, take it,¡± he said, helping Ang sit up and putting the small pill into her mouth.

    ¡°Mr. Parker, sir? You called for me?¡± Suddenly, a middle¨Caged woman appeared from the entrance.

    ¡°Erin! Yeah, can you handle all the household affairs? My mom needsplete rest,¡± Sean said firmly.

    ¡°That is my duty, sir. Is Mrs. Parker alright?¡± Erin asked, looking at Ang worriedly.

    ¡°No, Erin, I¡¯m not alright,¡± Ang replied without opening her

    eyes.

    0

    12:55 Thu, Aug 15 MWG.

    Sean sighed deeply, ¡°Mom, I¡¯ll take you to your room,¡± he said wearily.

    Reba watched Sean¡¯s back as he walked away, and her resolve.

    a bit. She sat

    on a stool, rubbing her nose,paring the risks of continuing to run from Victoria or facing her as Sean¡¯s crazy idea suggested.

    ¡°Becky, I¡¯m not in the mood to cook, so I¡¯ll just order something for our lunch,¡± Sean said. He suddenly appeared, looking down at his phone.

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Sean, I think I¡¯ve changed my mind. Maybe we can do it. You know? Pretend to be husband and wife,¡± she said cautiously.

    Sean looked up, surprised. ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Reba shrugged, ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s make a deal. A clear one.¡±

 BIT 70

    Reba sat facing Sean in the backyard garden, both of them serious as they stared at theptop ced on the table between them,

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to be afraid of the risks that might happen, so let¡¯s make an agreement that won¡¯t harm anyone,¡± Sean said earnestly,

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°I don¡¯t have many conditions but there are two fundamental things,¡± she said cautiously.

    ¡°And what are those?¡± Sean asked, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°Firstly, I want you to treat Lily as if she were your own daughter¡± Reba replied, nervously squeezing her fingers, as a contract marriage was something new to her.

    Sean nodded. ¡°Even without you asking me to do that, I would still do it. I will treat Lily better than anyone else. Leave that one, so, what¡¯s the second one?¡±

    Reba swallowed, still looking down at the table, busy finding the right words. ¡°Becky?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, um, no sex things, please,¡± ¡°Reba blurted out, her face turning red as she said

    <ol>

    <li>it. </li>

    </ol>

    Sean chuckled, making Reba finally look up from the table and frown at him. ¡°Why are youughing?¡±

    Sean cleared his throat, quickly rubbing his nose. ¡°Listen, that kind of thing hasn¡¯t crossed my mind since Maggie and Bea left. So, don¡¯t worry about that, Ipletely understand.¡±

    Reba sighed in relief. After that, they began discussing the important points they needed to agree on for their contract marriage, finishing an hourter just as Lily cried out on the baby monitor.

    With Lily¡¯s condition stabilizing, Reba took her downstairs to the first floor, approaching Sean who was still sitting in the same ce.

    Sean smiled broadly upon seeing Lily. ¡°Too bad I can¡¯t carry her, my clothes have been exposed to cigarette smoke,¡± he said regretfully. Reba nodded, ¡°It¡¯s okay, how was your mom?¡± she asked, cradling Lily in her arms.

    xe

    Chapter <b>70 </b>

    ¡°She is in a good shape but she refused to talk to me,¡± Sean replied with a shrug.

    ¡°Should I see her?¡± Reba mumbled uncertainly.

    ¡°Up to you, but you¡¯ll have to brace yourself because she might go on about my misfortunes again,¡± Sean half¨Cjoked.

    ¡°Um, I¡¯m a bit confused about how to tell Ang that we¡¯re getting married. I mean, we¡¯ve only known each other for a few days, wouldn¡¯t that sound suspicious?¡± Reba mumbled, looking puzzled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think my mom will care about that, she¡¯ll be happy to hear this good news but let me be the one to tell her, or you know what? Let¡¯s go see her and tell her together,¡± Scan said, closing hisptop and leading Reba towards Ang¡¯s room in the front corner of therge mansion.

    ¡°How many maids work here?¡± Reba asked when she saw Erin giving instructions to three other maids.

    ¡°Four people, they¡¯ve been here for a long time,¡± Sean replied.

    ¡°Sean, wait, Reba suddenly stopped, startling Sean. ¡°What happened?¡±

    Reba took a long breath. ¡°Um, after we get married, is it okay if we stay in New York for good? I mean, Ang is alone and her condition-

    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine! I really enjoy my alone time and I have a dozen close friends who live around here. So, did I hear correctly? Are you two really getting married?¡± Suddenly Ang appeared, her face full of curiosity.

    Reba widened her eyes in surprise, ncing at Sean and seeing him equally surprised. There was an awkward silence for ten seconds before Sean finally cleared his throat loudly, drawing Ang and Reba¡¯s attention towards him.

    ¡°Yes, Sean<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>Ang asked with a tense expression.

    Sean took a deep breath. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s sit down, the three of us. Well, the four of us,¡± he said, looking at Lily in Reba¡¯s arms.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Ang agreed, her curiosity piqued. Sean quickly took Ang¡¯s hand and led her to the living room sofa. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°So, can we just get straight to the point? I am curious,¡± Ang said, rubbing her palms

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    + 70%

    together.

    Auy

    Reba looked at Sean, eager to know what he would say to Ang because she couldn¡¯t possibly say the truth.

    ¡°Mom, I know this sounds strange but when you asked me to live normally and leave my guilt behind, you said something right,¡± Sean began his words. Beside him, Ang couldn¡¯t hide her smile, though she tried her best.

    ¡°Truthfully, from the moment I first saw Reba at the clinic, I had a different feeling about her, which is why I brought her here, and you know, I even slept somewhere other than the clinic, something I haven¡¯t done in three years,¡± Sean continued, looking up and meeting Reba¡¯s eyes.

    Reba knew Sean was just boasting and acting to reassure Ang, but for some reason, his words sounded very real to her, as if he was telling the truth.

    Ang covered her mouth with both hands, her eyes welled up. She nodded several times, waiting for Sean to continue his words.

    Sean cleared his throat softly and then returned his gaze to Ang. ¡°So confessed to Becky and despite all her problems, she wanted to start over with me. I

    Mom, I don¡¯t care if she just needs protection, but we agreed to get married and learn to love each other.¡±

    ¡°Oh my God! This is the best news I¡¯ve heard in three years. Oh God, Maggie and Bea will definitely support this decision one hundred percent, believe me and don¡¯t even think about changing your mind,¡± Ang eximed, unable to contain her tears of joy.

    Reba smiled, though she was slightly unsure about what she was doing. She just hoped that her big decision wouldn¡¯t turn out to be a mistake, like when she agreed to be Nichs Bet¡¯s fake girlfriend.

    ¡°Becky, believe me, Sean will make you the happiest woman in the world and Lily will get the perfect father figure. Wee to the Parker family¡­¡±

    *****

 BIT 71

    A few dayster,

    ¡°Have you received the divorce decree from the court yet?¡± Sean asked as they sat leisurely in the backyard garden.

    Reba winced. ¡°I¡¯ve cut off allmunication, but since it hasn¡¯t even been a month, I¡¯m sure the decree hasn¡¯t been issued yet,¡± she replied, uncertain. Talking about her divorce from Harvey always made her joints ache as if her body despised the divorce itself.

    Sean nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. Haven¡¯t you seen thetest gossip news?¡± he asked cautiously.

    ¡°Gossip news?¡± Reba frowned. ¡°I haven¡¯t checked my phone or watched the news since I got here. Is there something I should know?¡± she asked, trying to hide her

    nervousness.

    ¡°Um, maybe you should see for yourself.¡± Sean pulled his phone from his pocket, scrolled for a moment, and then handed it to Reba.

    ¡®Harvey Specter and Alicia Fox were caught on camera picking out wedding rings<b>, </b>even though our sources say the court hasn¡¯t finalized Harvey¡¯s divorce from his soon¨Cto¨Cbe, ex¨Cwife, Reba Harper. Click the link below for details.

    Reba felt a turmoil in her stomach. She didn¡¯t say anything and just handed Sean¡¯s phone back to him. But in her mind, she was busy processing everything. If Harvey left her just because of Victoria, it didn¡¯t make sense for him to do all this with Alicia. Everything felt even more illogical.

    ¡°Becky, are you okay?¡± Sean asked, noticing the change in Reba¡¯s expression.

    ¡°Yeah, I suspected this would happen,¡± she responded, then turned her face towards Lily, who was sleeping in the portable baby box Ang had bought a few days ago. Seeing Lily¡¯s face made her feel guilty for being so selfish as to bring an innocent baby into the world when she couldn¡¯t give her perfect happiness.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hold back, you can cry or curse or whatever you need to do. Consider me your friend, so don¡¯t hesitate to show your emotions<b>. </b><b>I </b>know how it feels to be left behind; it¡¯s suffocating¡­¡±

    12 56 Thu Aug 15 ML7

    Reba was touched by Sean¡¯s words. She took a deep breath, covered her face with her hands, and started sobbing. Suddenly, Lily also began crying loudly, as if sensing what her mother was feeling.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I got her!¡± Sean eximed, leaping towards Lily and picking her up in his arms. ¡°You know what? Take your time, I¡¯ll take her to your room,¡± he said. He quickly went into the house before Reba could say anything.

    Reba watched Sean¡¯s back while wiping her tears, She still remembered how excited Harvey had been when he learned she was pregnant; he even cried when Lily was born. How could everything end like this<b>? </b>

    ¡°Becky, is everything okay?¡±

    Suddenly, Ang appeared from the door, looking at Reba with surprise. Rebal quickly wiped her tears and cleared her throat softly. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re home already,¡± she replied, forcing a smile.

    ¡°Yeah, but I¡¯ll be going back to Charles¡¯s house this evening. They¡¯re having a small party,¡± Ang replied, then sat next to Reba. ¡°Did you have a fight with Sean? Did he hurt you?¡± she asked anxiously.

    Reba shook her head, smiling faintly. ¡°No, Sean and I are fine. It¡¯s just me and my problems,¡± she replied carefully. At least Ang thought her rtionship with Sean was real, so she felt she had to protect her feelings because what mother would want her son to be hurt? N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Ang gently stroked Reba¡¯s back. ¡°Is this about your ex¨Chusband?¡± she asked, looking at Reba with understanding

    Reba swallowed hard. She could lie, but she unconsciously nodded. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ang, I know I shouldn¡¯t-¡±

    ¡°Becky, it¡¯s fine. I know you need a long time to heal your wounds, and it¡¯s all made worse because you haven¡¯t gotten the resolution you want. You still suspect your divorce happened because of your mother¨Cinw, but seeing how casually Harvey was ring¨Cshopping with Alicia makes that reason invalid, right? Sorry, Lalso saw the news,¡± Ang said softly.

    Reba felt a pit in her stomach and her joints ached. Ang¡¯s words sounded so true that they were painfully hurtful.

    Sugat fock

    deep bucal, Thurt hide anymore. Becky fix to New York and face rohung led on You to know that men from their side is werning bead sus sind you, I read it this morning. You have mullinus of followers on anstal ***, votar 2 Thon¡¯s wary a Lily becae team will take care of her You are a * wote ya need in ke Her Angchat, anddding twice to convince Reba.

    ¡°What absent you?¡± Rebesked with a choked ver

    Ang chuckled ¡°Til be more weed if you¡¯re here, 8 gu far away! But you must visit met Hunksgiving and Christmas¡± she replied, tall piking

    Stevnen. Becky Let¡¯s go to New York and fit together. Fil protect you and Lily. I Promite Suddenly. Scan wat hetund <b>them</b>.

    Reteres looked at Scan and Ang alternately, and she knew they were right. She

    let none of

    Fun away because home at what happened was her fault

    can, zould you book a flight to IFR for tomorrow?¡± the hually decided.

    The next day.

    Sean, listen to me carefully: Ang and a sir was about to see all Sean, Reherra, and Lib, who were going to the airport. Se looked at Ang miently.

    ¡°Be a man like your father, take care of your family, and most importantly, be happy Ang said, her voice choked. Sean fugged Ang tightly. I will, Mom, I will

    In a proud of you to Ang released her hug from Sean and then hugged Retara. After alt emotional farewell. Ba Sean, and Lily Ich for Logan Airport. ¡°Are you ready?¡± bean asked as they were on the ne.

    Reba took a deep breath, then nodded as she adjusted the mask covering her bare. ¡°h that even necessary?¡± Scan asked, raising que eyebrow high

    ¡°I won¡¯t show myself to the public until we¡¯reficially married. I don¡¯t want to put Lily¡¯s life in danger Reba replied, turning her face to the window.

    ¡°Haven¡¯t I told you I¡¯ll protect you both? I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you and Lily. That¡¯s why I bothered to fly to New York. Sean said bruly, almost angrily,

    Beboxca turned, surprised.

    12.56

    Chapes 71

    ¡°Don¡¯t you believe <b>I </b>can do that and prevent you and Lily from ending up like Maggie and Bea? Is <b>that </b>why you¡¯re choosing to wear a mask?¡± Sean ranted, his face

    disappointed.

    Reba frowned in confusion. ¡°Sean, what¡¯s wrong with you? Alright, I¡¯ll take it off,¡± she said, removing the mask from her face.

    ¡°Sorry, I crossed the line,¡± Sean said, rubbing his face with his hand.

    Reba swallowed hard, then nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±

    Theynded at JFK an hour and twenty minutester. Reba swallowed nervously as she was about to step out of the ne. Honestly, she was scared that the news of their return to New York would reach Victoria¡¯s cars. She could imagine how Victoria would perceive their return as a threat.

    ¡°Becky, you can wear your mask again. I¡¯m sorry about earlier. I just ¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Sean. Ipletely understand, and you¡¯re right; I shouldn¡¯t hide my face,¡± Reba replied, though she wasn¡¯t sure.

    ¡°I¡¯ve rented a condo on W Street, Manhattan. We can stay there for a while, or we can settle there if you like it,¡± Sean murmured, sounding more rxed, which relieved Reba.

    Some girls nced at Reba and whispered as if they could recognize her, but Reba continued walking with her back straight. She didn¡¯t want to appear like a miserable woman, especially after the news about Harvey and Alicia resurfaced.

    As they waited for the car Sean had rented to pick them up, she suddenly bumped into a familiar face.

    ¡°Becky?¡±

    ¡°Oh my God, Cathy?¡±

 BIT 72

    9+ 70%

    Scan turned to look at Reba and Cathy alternately. ¡°Do you know each other?¡± he asked casually, but the awkward expressions on Reba and Cathy¡¯s faces made him frown in confusion.

    ¡°Yeah. This is my friend, Cathy,¡± said Reba forcing a smile.

    ¡°Sorry, I have to board now. My sister and my mom <b>are </b>already waiting inside. Bye.¡±

    Cathy hurriedly left, with Reba staring at her back without blinking. Sean frowned, ¡°Is everything okay? Is there something I should know?¡± he asked curiously.

    Reba took a deep breath, her chest feeling tight because Cathy had finally be a stranger to her. ¡°Nothing, is that our car?¡±

    Sean turned towards the ck SUV that stopped in front of them and matched the license te number with the one in his email. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s get in.¡±

    During the drive to Manhattan, Reba was busy controlling herself to not cry over her friendship with Cathy. She took deep breaths, exhaling repeatedly, catching Sean¡¯s attention as he sat in the front seat next to the driver. ¡°Becky, do you have a problem. with Cathy? Why did she act like that towards you?¡± he asked, turning to look back.

    Reba cleared her throat. She knew there was no use in hiding anything from Sean, as eventually, they would share everything after they got married, even if it was just a marriage on paper.

    ¡°We used to be good friends, but Cathy decided not to see me anymore after Victoria threatened her, and I respect her decision. Her attitude towards me is not her fault, it¡¯s all on me,¡± said Reba calmly, no longer involving emotions.

    Sean nodded.

    ¡°From now on, everything will be different. I promise I won¡¯t lose anything again,¡± he said firmly, and his tone instantly made Reba feel protected.

    Nearly an hourter, they finally arrived in front of the condo that would be their temporary home. Reba was grateful that the condo was quite far from the apartment that used to be her home with Harvey.

    ¡°Mr. Parker, sir? Wee to Manhattan!¡± eximed a woman working for the real

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    12 56 Thu, Aug 15 W

    estate agency that rented the condo for them

    ¡°And this must be your wife!¡± the woman said extending her hand to Reba after shaking hands with Sean. Reba smiled slightly but her face turned nk when she realized that the woman from the agency recognized her face. ¡°Oh my God! Aren¡¯t you Becky¨CBlushoff? I mean, Reba Specter? Oh, I mean Reba Harper? Oh, stupid me, I mean-

    ¡°I am.¡± Reba interrupted, half¨Cshouting.

    ¡°Of course you are. I¡¯ll keep it a secret, I promise,¡± the woman said, smiling awkwardly at Sean and Reba as if they were an illicit couple.

    Sean just snorted and said nothing. After handing over the keys with the woman from the real estate agency, they entered the three¨Cbedroom condo. Its cozy interior immediately made Reba feel it would be a suitable ce for them.

    ¡°This is very kid¨Cfriendly, I mean, look at the rubber covering all the sharp corners,¡± Reba said, pointing to the corner of the decorative table covered in rubber.

    ¡°I asked them to install it on all the corners and make the house child¨Cfriendly. Lily might not be able to do much right now but in a few months, you¡¯ll be surprised at how quickly she grows. My girl will be amazing,¡± Sean murmured, looking down at Lily who was sleeping soundly in her stroller.

    Reba was very touched by Sean¡¯s words. She didn¡¯t expect Sean to care so much about Lily and prepare everything so well, even down to the smallest detail.

    ¡°So, should we choose the room?¡± Rebooka suggested cheerfully, trying to manipte. her brain to drive out all the sadness and anxiety from her mind.

    ¡°No need, I already picked them out for you. The biggest room will be yours because. you¡¯ll have a lot of clothes. Lily¡¯s room will be next to yours, and my room will be in the far corner,¡± Sean said, pointing to where the rooms were.

    Reba was astonished. ¡°When did you prepare all this? Didn¡¯t we just n this trip yesterday afternoon?<b>¡± </b>Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Sean shrugged, ¡°Money can take care of everything. All I had to do was hire someone. I¡¯m hungry, should we have lunch out or do you want me to order delivery?<i>¡± </i>

    Reba stared at Sean for a few seconds, really amazed because Sean was so reliable. ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch out!¡± she eximed finally.

    ¨C 12:56 Thu, Aug 15 60 L <b>? </b>

    Sean looked up it surprise, ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I know Lily and I are safe in your hands. Reba nodded, convincing herself.

    Sean smiled, his smile very genuine as if he was smiling from his heart. They chose an Italian restaurant that was just a few blocks from where they lived.

    ¡°It¡¯s so crowded in here, Reba murmured, surprised at the number of visitors there. ¡°That means the food here is delicious. I¡¯ll find the mostfortable table so Lily isn¡¯t disturbed,¡± Sean said, quickly approaching the host and talking while asionally pointing to Lily and Reba.

    Soon they got afortable table in the back corner of the restaurant where there weren¡¯t too many people.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± Sean asked, gesturing to the table with both hands.

    Reba smiled slightly and nodded, ¡°Perfect. She looked at Sean secretly, and for the first time, she felt very grateful that she met him and not someone else who might not. treat her as well as Sean.

    ¡°You know what, I¡¯ve heard the Ravioli Al Tartufo here is very famous,¡± Sean said as a waiter ced the Ravioli on their table.

    ¡°Oh really, I want to try it then,¡± Reba said, inhaling the aroma of the Ravioli deeply.

    ¡°You could take a picture and post it on your social media as your firsteback, maybe with the caption ¡®trying something viral¡®?¡± Sean suggested, pushing the Ravioli te closer to Reba.

    Reba looked at Sean in surprise. ¡°Wow, how did something like that cross your mind? I mean, you¡¯re a doctor,¡± she said, unbelieving what she just heard.

    ¡°Well, I am a doctor, but I¡¯m quite up¨Cto¨Cdate and not outdated. You¡¯d be surprised but I know quite a bit about teen idols because I have to win their hearts when they be my patients, Sean replied cheerfully, which impressed Reba.

    ¡°Very well then, I guess this Ravioli will mark myeback,¡± she muttered, then turned on her phone with her new number and started taking pictures.

    ¡°Is this picture good enough?¡± Reba asked, showing her phone screen to Sean. ¡°Perfect, no wonder you have millions of followers, even your angle shows your level,<b>¡± </b>Scan praised sincerely.

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    Reba snorted, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll post it in one, two, three¡­¡±

    She closed her eyes tightly, ¡°Okay, it¡¯s posted!¡± she eximed, not believing what she just did.

    Sean gently touched her shoulder. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay, I got your back, let¡¯s eat!¡±

    Reba nodded, checked on Lily for a moment to make sure she was okay, and then took a bite of the Spaghetti Allo Scoglio she had ordered. She closed her eyes, ¡°God, this is so good¡­¡±

    Sean smiled, he had never seen Reba so rxed since they first met at the restaurant in Boston. ¡°I ordered a T¨Cbone too and we¡¯re going to finish it,¡± he chirped.

    ¡°Sangria!¡± a waiter came, cing Sangria on their table.

    Some people around them openly stared at them with judgmental looks. ¡°She is not breastfeeding the baby, okay? Don¡¯t worry!¡± Sean shouted, making everyone breathe a sigh of relief.

    Reba snorted withughter, ¡°Oh, this is so funny!¡±

    While enjoying her dessert, she was tempted to open her phone and check her social media. She scrolled through some direct messages and felt happy because many of her followers supported her, but there was one message that made her lose her appetite.

    ¡°Are you expecting misfortune in season three?¡± It was a message from Alicia.

 BIT 73

    ¡°What happened?¡± Sean asked, surprised by the change in Reba¡¯s expression, then his eyes fell on her phone. ¡°Did they say something bad about you? I mean, your followers?¡±

    Reba swallowed hard and showed Sean Alicia¡¯s message.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, as long as I¡¯m by your side, no one will hurt you or Lily. So just sit back. and enjoy your lunch,¡± Sean said very calmly.

    Reba nodded, though deep inside she became a bit anxious knowing Alicia had found out that she was in the same city. She tried to eat her dessert calmly and push all the negative thoughts out of her mind.

    ¡°I told you it was her!¡± a girl eximed from a few feet away. Reba looked up, startled. Before she could react, two girls suddenly half¨Cran towards her.

    ¡°Becky? You¡¯re Becky, right? I just saw your story about the ravioli!¡± eximed one of the

    girls, who looked to be under twenty, nervously.

    Reba opened her mouth in surprise, ncing at Sean and clearly seeing the proud smirk on his face.

    ¡°Um, yeah, I am,¡± Reba replied, smiling slightly.

    ¡°Can we have a picture with you?¡± the girl asked shyly.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Reba said, standing up and positioning herself between the two girls.

    ¡°Give me your phone, and I¡¯ll take the picture¡± Sean said cheerfully. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Thank

    you. Oh my God, you¡¯re even prettier in real life! Even without makeup!¡± one of the girls eximed after taking the photo with Reba.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Reba said softly, feeling a bit self¨Cconscious since she hadn¡¯t felt as confident after giving birth.

    ¡°See? You have influence, Becky. You just don¡¯t know how to use it. If I were you, I¡¯d use that influence as a weapon for self¨Cprotection. So from now on, don¡¯t underestimate yourself.¡± Sean winked, trying to boost Reba¡¯s confidence.

    Reba smiled and said, ¡°Thank you, Sean. I mea

    They headed back to the condo afterward so Lily could get enough rest.

    ¡°Um, Sean, I¡¯m going to rest in my room, and for now, Lily will sleep with me. I don¡¯t think I can be away from her,¡± Reba said, Hiding the fact that she was afraid someone might take Lily from her.

    ¡°Sure, we have an inte system between the rooms, so you can press button 3 to connect to my room if you need me. Have a good rest,¡± Sean replied before turning and heading to his room.

    Reba entered the master bedroom that would be hers and felt touched by how Sean prioritized her and Lily as if they weren¡¯t just in a contract marriage.

    She fed Lily, changed her diaper, and put her to sleep in the crib she had moved from Lily¡¯s room. She looked at the clothes she was wearing and realized she didn¡¯t have any other clothes to wear. With a heavy heart, she opened the walk¨Cin closet door and was shocked to see neatly arranged clothes, shoes, and bags. She tried one on and found that everything was her size.

    ¡°Are all these for me?¡± she muttered in disbelief.

    She quickly picked up the inte on the nightstand and pressed number 3. After the third ring, Sean answered.

    ¡°Yes, Becky?¡± Sean responded promptly.

    ¡°Um, are the things in the walk¨Cin closet from the previous tenant or-

    ¡°They¡¯re yours. My mother picked them out for you. She had her former personal shopper buy everything for you. Don¡¯t get me wrong, Ang Parker was a fashionista in her day, and I¡¯m sure she picked out some ssy and good¨Cquality items for you,¡± Sean replied cheerfully.

    Reba was stunned, gaping for a few seconds, at a loss for words.

    ¡°Oh my God¡­¡± Those were the only words that escaped Reba¡¯s lips. After ending the call with Sean, she quickly contacted Ang.

    ¡°Becky, dear! How was New York?¡± Ang greeted cheerfully.

    ¡°Great. Um, Ang, I want to thank you for going through all the trouble to prepare everything for me and Lily,¡± Reba said, her voice choked with emotion.

    12:56 hu, Aug

    ¡°No worries! You and Lily are part of the Parker family. I was happy to do it, so no nee to thank me, okay?¡± Reba could imagine Ang winking as she said that.

    After ending the call with Ang, Reba returned to the walk¨Cin closet and picked o a satin kimono with matching lingerie. She stared at the kimono for a while, realizing that Ang assumed she and Sean would have an intimate rtionship, even though nothing would actually happen between them.

    She put the sexy satin kimono back and reced it with sweatpants and a white crop top. After washing her face, shey down on the bed. She couldn¡¯t believe that after he thrilling adventure, she was finally back in New York and even had time for a nap.

    Before closing her eyes, she checked her phone once more and found a message from Jacob in her direct messages.

    So you¡¯re back in New York? That¡¯s it? You didn¡¯t even tell me? I hope you¡¯re okay.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath. She typed a few words and ended up deleting them again. Finally, she just replied, ¡®I¡¯m sorry, Jacob, and yeah, I¡¯m fine now.¡±

    As she tried to sleep, she suddenly thought of Cathy. She frowned, wondering why Cathy seemed to hate her so much. She knew it was all because of Victoria, but she was curious about what Victoria had said to Cathy to change her gaze so drastically.

    After closing her eyes tightly and counting down from a hundred, she finally fell asleep at twenty¨Ceight. However, her subconscious betrayed her by bringing Harvey into her dream. Harvey, with all his charm, handsome face, and rare charisma.

    In her dream, Central Park looked more beautiful because it was just the three of them -her, Harvey, and Lily. Walking side by side, asionally joking amidst Lily¡¯s loud cries. As they stood by theke, they gazed at each other. Their faces moved closer, and just as Harvey kissed her lips, she saw out of the corner of her eye Lily¡¯s stroller rolling

    into theke**

    ¡°NO! LILY!¡± she screamed, waking up from her nap withbored breaths. She jumped up and checked Lily¡¯s crib. ¡°Oh, thank God!¡± she eximed when she saw Lily still there, sleeping as if she hadn¡¯t heard her mother¡¯s scream.

    She wiped her face, returned to bed, and checked her phone. She didn¡¯t know why, but after hereback post, she felt like she was waiting for something. Then, when she opened her direct messages, a name appeared, making her heart pound hard.

    3+ 70%

    Why did you coine¨Cback here? You made the wrong decision for you and the baby.

    That message was from Harvey.

 BIT 74

    <b>Chapter </b>74

    Reba felt her entire body trembling, and her heart was racing. All her emotions were jumbled up in her chest. She read the message again and became extremely angry.

    ¡°The baby?¡± she muttered in disbelief. ¡°Can¡¯t he refer to our baby? Has he really forgotten about me and Lily?¡±

    She gripped her phone so tightly that her palm hurt. Suddenly, her body felt so light that it seemed her feet were no longer touching the ground. For the first time since Harvey left her, she felt numb as if all emotions had been drained from her chest.

    Then she heard Lily¡¯s loud cries. She stood up quickly and without enthusiasm, picked Lily up from the crib.

    ¡°Hey, sweetheart, are you thirsty?¡± she asked, smiling at Lily as if nothing had happened. After giving Lily some milk, she opened her phone again and blocked Harvey and Alicia¡¯s ounts on social media.

    She left the room, carrying Lily, and ran into Sean, who wasing from the opposite direction. ¡°Hey, how was your nap?¡± Sean asked, his face looking fresh as if he had just sshed water on it.

    ¡°Not bad,¡± Reba replied, smiling. She wouldn¡¯t let Harvey, Alicia, Victoria, or anyone else control her mood.

    ¡°Coffee?¡± Sean asked, slipping into the bar.

    ¡°Yes, please!¡±

    Reba flopped down on the sofa with Lily in her arms. She turned on the TV and sat rxed, as if she were living her perfectly normal life.

    ¡°Here.¡± Sean came over, cing Reba¡¯stte on the table before sitting next to her. He stared at Reba for a moment, sensing something was off about her.

    ¡°Everything okay, Becky?¡±

    Reba looked up, smiling too broadly to hide her emotions. ¡°Yeah, all good!¡± she said, giving a thumbs up.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s not. Are you sure?¡± Sean asked, raising an eyebrow.

    12:58 Thu, Aug 15 M VO

    Reba fell silent, looking down at Lily for a moment before saying, ¡°Harvey sent me a direct message earlier, saying that Lily and I shouldn¡¯t havee back here, and he even referred to Lily as ¡°The Baby¡® instead of Our Baby¡®. Isn¡¯t that crazy? I was <i>so </i>angry and disappointed, but I know such emotions will only harm me, so now I think I¡¯m pretty stable.¡±

    Sean nodded.

    ¡°You know you don¡¯t have to hide anything in this house. Just be yourself. You can be angry, you can cry, you canugh, you can let out all your emotions here and only put on that mask when you¡¯re in front of people. If you keep holding your emotions in, you¡¯ll go crazy eventually,¡± he said casually.

    ¡°Sometimes I hate myself for being so weak that they can easily y with me, but I won¡¯t let that happen again,¡± Reba murmured.

    Suddenly, the TV channel showed a gossip news segment, and Reba¡¯s face was prominently disyed between Alicia and Harvey, as if she were the third party between them.

    New York is buzzing! Reba Harper returns to New York after Harvey Specter and Alicia Fox announce their wedding ns!¡®

    ¡°Bullshit!¡± Reba shouted. Sean quickly took Lily from her arms and moved her to the sofabed.

    ¡°Reba Harper? I haven¡¯t even received the divorce decree! Why are they calling me by my maiden name? And what did they say? I came back because I heard Harvey and Alicia were getting married. What ridiculous news!¡± Reba ranted, her face red. She felt free to express her anger after Sean had repeatedly assured her to be herself.

    Sean sighed deeply.

    ¡°Maybe we should contact thew firm handling your divorce, just in case the decree is indeed finalized,¡± he suggested calmly.

    Reba was stunned,

    ¡°Could it be processed that quickly?¡± she asked, unsure.

    ¡°Almost unbelievable, but they have ess to the court, so it¡¯s possible,¡± Sean replied, somewhat doubtful.

    12:58 Thu, Aug 15 MW <b>S </b>

    Reba hurriedly reached into her pocket, pulled out her phone, and called the Specter family¡¯sw firm.

    70%

    <b>+5 </b>

    ¡°I¡¯m Reba Harper, calling to inquire about my divorce case with Harvey Specter. Has the decree been issued?¡± she asked quickly.

    A few minutester,

    ¡°How was it?¡± Sean asked after Reba ended the call.

    Reba swallowed hard, ¡°Harvey expedited the process because we both agreed to the divorce and our decree just came through today¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you feel relieved or disappointed?¡± Sean asked curiously as if nothing was holding him back from asking any question.

    Reba took a deep breath, feeling something huge stuck in her throat. ¡°I don¡¯t know. All I know is that after this, everything will truly change. I can¡¯t even describe my feelings right now,¡± she said, not bothering to hold back the tears streaming down her cheeks.

    ¡°Are you tired? I mean, if you¡¯re not tired, I¡¯d like to take you somewhere,¡± Sean said as he grabbed the remote and turned off the TV

    ¡°Not really, where do you want to take me?¡± Reba asked, not too interested. If she followed the demon screaming in her head, she would love to buy a gun and go see Harvey, Alicia, and Victoria, then shoot them one by one. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°You¡¯ll see. You can get ready now; I¡¯ll take care of Lily,¡± Sean said as he looked down at Lily, who was busy in her own world.

    Reba frowned but didn¡¯t ask further. She stood up, kissed Lily on the head, and hurried back to her room. She stood in front of the mirror, looking at her reflection, and the anger suddenly resurfaced.

    She hated being yed. She hated that Harvey made her believe their rtionship was real. Quickly, she opened her walk¨Cin closet, chose a bright red dress, then sat in front of her vanity and applied the same red lipstick.

    A few minutester, she walked confidently on her red stilettos, which echoed on the marble floor of the condo, making Sean turn to her in surprise.

    ¡°Wow, all red. Is it a sign of revenge?¡± Seanmented, mesmerized by Reba¡¯s

    12:58 Thu, Aug 15 MWS.

    3

    Reba shrugged. ¡°No time for revenge; I have a beautiful daughter to raise,¡± she replied casually.

    Sean smiled slightly. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be back in five minutes,¡± he said, then went to his room and returned five minutester in trousers and a well¨Cfitted long john.

    ¡°Did you pack Lily¡¯s bag?¡± Sean asked as Reba moved Lily into the stroller. ¡°Oh my God, I forgot! Wait, I¡¯ll-¡±

    ¡°No, stay here, I¡¯ll pack it,¡± Sean interrupted, quickly walking to Reba¡¯s room and packing Lily¡¯s bag with milk bottles and diapers.

    ¡°Ready to go!¡± Sean eximed with the diaper bag on his back, a small gesture that made Reba truly grateful to have met the right person, even if there were no romantic feelings between them.

    ¡°So, where are we going?¡± Reba asked once they were in the car.

    Sean turned to her, ¡°Vera¡¯s Bridal. You need to fit your dress because we¡¯re getting married the day after tomorrow.¡±

    Reba stared at him in shock. ¡°What?¡±

    *****

 BIT 75

    What? Your divuce Imalist, as there¡¯s mom for us to dy the we

    ¡°Well, won¡¯t people think forp win Harvey?¡± Behmern and, buing her lip. uncertain about Sean¡¯s decision to lunce the bling an anom

    have i

    ¡°Does that matter? Didn¡¯t we discuss this I non, qual in getting murial from the start was to protect Lily, or have you changer

    in his tone.

    Rebeeen frowned, ¡°What Not Lily will always be my priority, no matter what. Well, lers get married soon then!¡± she hurried out of the condo, her mind in tummail, afraid she was making the same mistake. Even though sean might not have an emotional bond with her, they would be legally bound, and a teared seam would turn o out like Nichs

    Sean sighed deeply.

    You don¡¯t have to do it if you don¡¯t want to day? I don¡¯t want to seem like I¡¯m forcing you to marry me, so I¡¯ll ask again, are we going for the hung or not?¡± Sean naked, as it understanding the struggle in Reba¡¯s min

    Reba nced at Lily, who was ying in the stroller, she took a deep breath, knowing the only reason she was with Sean was to protect Lily, an she had to be sure her decision.

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s do the fitting,¡± she finally devided she pushed Lily¡¯s stroller, walking half distracted, hoping she had made the right

    ¡°Get in. I¡¯ll take care of Lily¡± Sean said as he locked an SUV. Rebeeen frowned, ¡°Whose car is this?¡± she asked, confused.

    ¡°I bought it earlier while you were napping¡± Bean answered lightly. He opened the back door, swiftly installed the car seat, and transfired Lily into it. Rebecen watched in

    zement, Sean truly seemed born to be a father

    ¡°Why Vera Bridal?¡± Rebecen asked, curious

    ¡°It¡¯s the only one I know. Maggie and I bough our wedding dress there, but you¡¯re free to choose any ce you like, is then a ce you want to go to pick out your wedding

    12:58 Thu, Aug 15 M Le<b>. </b>

    <b>HT</b>/<b>U</b>%

    dress<b>?</b>¡± Scan replied, fastening his scatbelt and starting the car at a moderate speed.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care what kind of wedding dress I wear, we both know this isn¡¯t a real wedding, I

    mean-¡±

    ¡°Yeah, but I guess you¡¯d want to look good on your social media, and you have a high sense of fashion. You need to convince Victoria that you genuinely want this marriage. You don¡¯t have to follow my suggestion, it¡¯s just my opinion,¡± Sean interjected, keeping his eyes on the road. Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba puffed her cheeks, then nced at Sean for a moment. ¡°Why do you always think of such details? You¡¯re like a Public Rtions Expert instead of a doctor,¡± she muttered, unable to hide her surprise.

    Sean shrugged. ¡°So? Vera Bridal or?¡±

    ¡°Valentine Avoh, then!¡± Reba said quickly, making Sean smile slightly. ¡°Very well, Ma¡¯am. Just show me the way!¡±

    Fifteen minutester, they arrived at the Valentine Avoh Atelier. As they were about to enter, the sound of a camera click from behind made Reba stop. She turned to Sean, who was pushing the stroller with a sleeping Lily inside. ¡°Just ignore them, let¡¯s get in!¡± Sean gently rubbed Reba¡¯s back, providing fodder for the paparazzi.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to rx her facial muscles. Before she could step inside, she heard more paparazzi arriving. Reflexively, she and Sean turned around and saw a ck sedan pulling up.

    ¡°I know that car,¡± Reba muttered, her jaw tightening.

    Sean frowned, ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s them, let¡¯s get in.¡± Reba turned and walked into the boutique, followed by a still puzzled Sean.

    Inside the boutique, Sean peeked outside. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw Harvey Specter and Alicia Fox walking side by side, followed by the sh of cameras.

    ¡°Interesting,¡± Sean muttered, turning to look at the visibly tense Reba.

    ¡°Of all the ces in New York, why do we have to run into them here? Truly strange fate,¡± she sighed deeply, trying to rx her shoulder muscles.

    Chapin 25

    ¡°Good evening, may I help you?¡± A female sales assistant in a neat ck zer approached them.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯d like to see this dress,¡± Reba said, showing a photo of a dress she had seen in Vogue on her phone.

    ¡°Sure, this way please.¡± The sales assistant led Reba and Sean to a hallway, Just as they disappeared behind the disy room, Harvey and Alicia entered the boutique.

    ¡°You can hide in the fitting room until they leave if you¡¯re not ready to meet them,¡± Sean said, flopping onto a sofa.

    Reba yed with her cold, sweaty fingers, feeling challenged by Sean¡¯s words. ¡°I don¡¯t care if I run into them,¡± she replied, swallowing hard.

    ¡°Miss Harper, we have the dress in the fitting room, whenever you¡¯re ready,¡± the sales assistant said with a wide smile.

    ¡°Can you take care of Lily for me?¡± Reba asked, terrified that Lily might be taken from her. Sean smiled, ¡°Of course, she¡¯s my daughter.¡±

    Reba gave a faint smile, then turned and followed the sales assistant.

    ¡°Did you know your ex¨Chusband is here too?¡± the sales assistant asked cautiously. Reba silently cursed, ¡®Damn, she knows who I am!¡±

    Reba only grimaced, ¡°I can¡¯t believe that snake has the same taste as me,¡± she muttered cynically, no longer trying to be an angel.

    The sales assistant smiled awkwardly, scratching her non¨Citchy car before saying, ¡°Maybe he¡¯s trying <i>to </i>be like you, Ma¡¯am.¡±

    Reba turned to the assistant, surprised by her words. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma¡¯am, I shouldn¡¯t have said that,¡± the sales assistant apologized, fearing Reba might report her to her

    manager.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Reba said, then stepped into the fitting room. She took off her red dress, and the assistant stared in disbelief. ¡°How can your body look so perfect after giving birth?!¡±

    Reba looked at her reflection in the

    truth. ¡°I¡¯m lucky to have good gic..

    Mirror and realized the assistant was telling the

    she replied, putting on a whitece dress with a

    low back and arge white bow at the back.

    Hu, Aug 19

    @<b>+ </b>70%

    The sales assistant helped Reba and ensured the dress was properly fitted. ¡°Perfect! Absolutely perfect, as if this wedding dress was made for you! May I share this on social media? You know what? Alicia Fox might choose the same dress, so I need to make sure people know she copied your style, not the other way around,¡± she said cheerfully.

    Reba looked at her, reading the name tag pinned to her chest.

    ¡°Cassic?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am?¡± the assistant smiled.

    ¡°Why are you doing all this? I mean, you sound like you¡¯re on my side, do you say such things to all your clients?¡± Reba asked, tilting her head, curious about Cassie.

    Cassie grinned widely, pulling out her phone to show that she had taken a photo with Reba a year ago. ¡°I¡¯ve been holding back, but actually, Becky, I¡¯m a huge fan of yours!¡± she eximed, her eyes sparkling.

    Reba smiled, looking at her picture from a year ago, ¡°Time flies, huh? Thanks, Cassie, people like you keep me going,¡± she said, her voice choking.

    Cassie held Reba¡¯s hand, ¡°You¡¯ve done great. You may not know it, but many of your fans believe in you. All you need to do is go out there and show the truth,¡± she said, sounding wise and mature for the first time since they started talking.

    ¡°Okay, are you ready?¡± Cassie asked, preparing to open the curtain.

    Reba nodded, looking at her reflection in the mirror one more time.

    ¡°He seems like a good man, by the way,¡± ¡°Cassie muttered, peeking out and seeing Sean making a bottle for Lily.

    ¡°He is.¡± Reba smiled faintly.

    ¡°On three, okay? One, two, three and here¡¯s the bride!¡± Cassie pulled the curtain openpletely. Reba smiled widely, but her smile faded when she saw not only Sean and Lily there.

    ****

 BIT 76

    <b>Chapter </b>76

    ¡°Becky<b>, </b>what happened?¡± asked Sean, noticing the change in Reba¡¯s expression. He turned around and saw Harvey standing there, shocked. Harvey¡¯s gaze then fell on Lily, cradled in Sean¡¯s arms, and Reba could clearly see the emotions change on his face.

    Reba quickly looked away from Harvey and focused on Sean, who was now looking back at her. ¡°What do you think, Sean?¡± she asked, her voice tight.

    Sean nodded, smiling broadly. ¡°Perfect!¡± he eximed.

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Can youe in here and bring Lily with you?¡± she said, signaling Sean to take Lily away from Harvey¡¯s sight.

    ¡°Of course!¡± Sean hurried into the fitting room, not looking at Harvey at all. Cassie quickly closed the curtain and covered her mouth with one hand, ¡°Oh shit! Sorry, I mean, Oh my God!¡±

    ¡°Cassie, can you help me take off this dress?¡±

    Cassie nodded, ¡°Yes, sure!¡± She quickly ran behind Reba to undo the dress¡¯s fastenings. Meanwhile, Sean turned his face away.

    ¡°Sorry, Sean. I have to protect Lily,¡± Reba said, looking at the back of Sean¡¯s head. ¡°I know, you did the right thing,¡± Sean whispered.

    ¡°Babe? What are you doing here?¡± Suddenly, Alicia¡¯s voice sounded from outside the fitting room. Reba and Cassie exchanged nces; they both knew it was Alicia. Meanwhile, Sean continued to keep his gaze averted.

    ¡°I thought you were in this room,¡± Harvey replied stiffly. Alicia giggled, ¡°This way! Come on! I¡¯m really upset, you know what? The dress I wanted was already taken by someone else! Annoying!¡± Alicia whined in her sweet voice, making Reba feel very nauseous.

    your

    ¡°This <b>is </b>crazy! She really wants to giarize your style! Everyone, I mean all followers, knows that you posted this dress on your feed almost a year ago! Oh my God, after this I¡¯m going to post a photo of you in this dress so Alicia can¡¯t make up any silly news saying you stole her dress or whatever,¡± Cassie said, sounding very angry as if Reba was her friend.

    Reba remained silent, her mind filled with Harvey¡¯s face and hisplicated look. She hurriedly put on her dress and peeked outside. ¡°I think they are in the next fitting

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    <b>12:58 </b>Thu, Aug 15 MW

    <b>Chapter </b>70

    room, we have to go now. Um, Cassic, can you send this dress to my house? I¡¯ll give you my number,¡± Reba said quickly.

    Cassie smiled broadly. ¡°Of course! I¡¯d be happy to!¡±

    ¡°Please send the bill to my number, I¡¯ll transfer

    Sean said, handing his business card to Cassie, w Payment right away. Thank you,¡±

    Sir! You¡¯re very wee!¡±

    epted it with a wide smile. ¡°I will,

    After making sure there was no sign of Harvey or Alicia, Reba and Sean quickly left the fitting room and walked out of the boutique calmly, even though the paparazzi started to swarm around them. ¡°Don¡¯t say a word,¡± Reba whispered to Sean, keeping her head down and focusing on their quick steps.

    After pushing through some paparazzi, they managed to get into the car and drove away from there.

    Reba sighed deeply, ¡°That was close,¡± she muttered, looking at the empty sidewalk.

    ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t avoid them,¡± Sean remarked without taking his eyes off the road. Reba swallowed hard, ¡°Turns out I¡¯m not that strong,¡± she whispered.

    Suddenly, Sean reached out his free hand to gently pat Reba¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s okay, time will heal you.¡±

    ¡°I wish,¡± Reba sighed deeply.

    ¡°My mom suggested a venue for our wedding¡± Sean murmured tly.

    ¡°Really? And where is that?¡± Reba asked, not really caring where their wedding would be held.

    ¡°Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, and then we¡¯d have dinner at Nebeluz, but if you have another option, that would be great too.¡±

    ¡°No, I trust your mom¡¯s taste,¡± Reba replied quickly.

    Sean nodded, ¡°Are you stopping by for dinner or¡ª¡±

    ¡°No, can we order delivery food instead? I just want to go home,¡± she said, still looking out the window. She felt very foolish because her mind was a mess again after seeing Harvey.

    C

    D

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    ¡°Never mind,¡± Sean replied tly.

    There was no conversation between them until they arrived home.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of Lily, just order the food for us. I¡¯ll eat anything,¡± Sean said as he jumped

    out of the car.

    Reba watched Sean cheerfully greet Lily and carefully take her out of the car. She closed her eyes, feeling foolish for wishing it was Harvey.

    She walked into the house and suddenly realized that if she kept letting these emotions consume her, she would have to start all over again, and the progress she had made in the past few days would be wasted.

    As she took off her shoes, she peeked at Sean who was opening something from a box. ¡°What is that?¡± Reba asked, frowning curiously.

    ¡°I bought a baby bouncer for Lily,¡± Sean replied without looking up from the box he was opening. Reba swallowed hard; she hadn¡¯t thought of anything about what Lily might need because she was too busy dealing with her heartbreak. ¡°Thank you, it¡¯s very nice of you,¡± she said sincerely.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. I¡¯m going to be her father, this is something a new dad usually does,¡± Sean replied tly.

    Sometimes Reba felt Sean was like a robot with no emotions; was it because they had to keep their distance so no feelings would develop between them? She sat on the sofa bed next to Lily and opened her phone to order delivery food.

    Suddenly, she felt very tired. Shey down next to Lily, talking to her, but a few minutester, she fell asleep.

    She woke up startled by Lily¡¯s crying. She opened her eyes and saw Sean hurriedly picking Lily up and soothing her. ¡°Continue your sleep, I¡¯ll take care of Lily,¡± he said quickly.

    Reba rubbed her eyes and looked at the digital clock on the table, shocked to realize she had been asleep for almost an hour.

    ¡°Oh my God, the food?¡±

    ¡°I put it on the kitchen ind; it came like twenty minutes ago,¡± Sean replied, still

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    holding Lily even though she had stopped crying.

    As Reba got up, she was surprised to find a nket had fallen from herp. She picked up the nket and nced at Sean.

    ¡°Um, your dress rode up a bit, so-

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Thank you, Sean, I¡¯ll prepare dinner,¡± Reba said quickly, not wanting to embarrass Sean.

    ¡°I know I sound like a bad mom, but I really want to drink alcohol right now, is that bad?¡± Reba asked, almost shouting.

    ¡°You¡¯re not breastfeeding Lily, and I¡¯m here to watch her if you get too drunk, so do whatever you need to do, maybe you¡¯ll feel better afterwards,¡± Sean replied casually.

    Reba winced, ¡°You¡¯re so wise, I¡¯m very jealous Lily will have a father like you,¡± she said honestly.

    +

    Sean looked up, his expression making Reba feel guilty for saying that. She should have known that such words would only remind Sean of Maggie and Bea.

    Reba cleared her throat, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll just-¡± She hurriedly unwrapped the sushi and arranged it on a te. She took a deep breath, suddenly feeling queasy at the idea of living in this fake marriage with Sean for a long time.

    ¡°Um, I¡¯ll go to your room and put Lily in the crib; she needs a proper sleep,¡± Sean said. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba jumped off the stool, ¡°No, let me do it! You¡¯ve done too much,¡± she said, almost running towards Sean.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll clean her, feed her, and put her to bed, easy. Just eat your dinner.¡± Sean gave a thumbs up, assuring Reba that he wasn¡¯t bothered at all by his duties as a soon¨Cto¨Cbe new dad.

    Reba winced, ¡°Thanks, Sean¡­¡±

    After Sean went into her room, Reba ate her sushi while thinking about what kind of life she would have with Sean after the wedding.

    Fifteen minutester, Sean came out of the room, looking a bit sleepy. He picked up his phone from the sofa and sat down in front of Reba.

    475

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    <b>¡°</b><b>I </b>got a message from an unknown number,¡± Scan muttered, looking down at his phone.

    ¡°Oh really? What message?¡±

    Sean clicked the message, and his face looked shocked, making Reba frown in curiosity. ¡°What is it, Scan?¡± she asked.

    Sean cleared his throat, ¡°It says, ¡®Sean, if you have some free time, please let me contact you. Harvey Specter.¡°¡±

    Reba gaped, almost choking on the tamago sushi she had just put in her mouth.

    ***

 BIT 77

    +60%

    ¡°How did Harvey get your number?¡± Reba muttered in confusion.

    Sean shrugged. He browsed his name on the inte and quickly found the answer. ¡°Take a look at this, there¡¯s an article about us spreading online, and my number is clearly posted on my clinic¡¯s website. What do you want me to reply?<i>¡± </i>

    Reba swallowed hard and shook her head quickly. ¡°Just ignore it! No need to reply.¡± she said, then opened a can of cold beer and drank it nearly empty.

    Sean nodded, ¡°If you say so,¡± he said briefly.

    ¡°Sean, I¡¯m curious, does all this bother you? I mean, the publicity, the paparazzi cameras, isn¡¯t living like that very ufortable?¡± Reba muttered while stirring wasabi with her chopsticks.

    Sean took a deep breath, then looked up at Reba with his hazel eyes. ¡°As long as they don¡¯t disturb Lily, I think everything is fine. He unwrapped his chopsticks and put a piece of salmon sushi into his mouth.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, if anyone involves Lily, I won¡¯t stand still. Beer?¡± Reba replied.

    ¡°Yes please, thanks!¡±

    Reba opened a can of beer and handed it to Sean. As they were enjoying sushi and beer in peace, Sean¡¯s phone suddenly vibrated. Reflexively, they both looked at the

    screen.

    ¡°Harvey?¡± Sean eximed in surprise. ¡°This is the same number that texted me earlier.¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, her heart pounding faster and her appetite disappearing in an instant. ¡°May I?¡± she asked, asking permission to take Sean¡¯s phone.

    Sean nodded while continuing his dinner.

    Reba took Sean¡¯s phone and pressed the green button.

    ¡°Mr. Parker?¡±

    ¡°What do you want?¡± Reba snapped, her voice trembling and her breath uneven due to her disarrayed emotions.

    115 Thu mua t NU.

    ¡°Becky¡°¡±

    +68%

    ¡°Don¡¯t Becky Becky me. Mr. Specter. Stop bothering Sean or I won¡¯t make it easy for you, understand?¡± Reba snapped louder than she intended, <b>making </b>Sean look up in surprise.

    Silence, Harvey said nothing for a few seconds

    ¡°If you¡¯re done. I¡¯ll end this conversation, Reba hissed coldly.

    You shouldn¡¯t be here, just take Lily with you and go somewhere far. You might think I¡¯m stupid, but I know you and Sean aren¡¯t real, Harvey said calmly.

    Reba felt anger filling her chest. She clenched her fist so tightly it broke the chopsticks in her grip.

    ¡°First, no one is going anywhere because we¡¯ll stay wherever we like. Second, Sean is a responsible man I can rely on, so you¡¯re wrong, Harvey. What¡¯s happening between Sean and me is real, so stop terrorizing Sean and mind your own business!¡± Reba snapped, then pressed the red button to end the call. In front of her, Sean stared at her in shock. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Sorry,¡± Reba said, then blocked Harvey¡¯s number and handed Sean¡¯s phone back to

    him.

    ¡°He¡¯s really testing me, Reba muttered with quick breaths.

    Sean didn¡¯t react, he continued his dinner in silence.

    ¡°I¡¯m so done with this, I¡¯ll show him we¡¯re not pretending! Good night, Sean.¡±

    Reba cleaned up her dishes, then walked to her room quickly, really angry at Harvey.

    She checked on Lily, who was sleeping soundly, kissed her gently, then went into the bathroom and soaked her stiff body in the bathtub. With her eyes closed, she inhaled thevender scent deeply, trying to calm herself, and it worked. She wasn¡¯t as angry as before.

    That night, she appliedvender behind her ears and on the soles of her feet and slept soundly like a baby.

    The next morning, she woke up with a heavy head because Lily had woken up several

    1715 Thu ANH 15

    times during the night. She frowned at the voices outside her room. She washed her face <b>and </b>walked out.

    ¡°Sean? Who are you talking to? Reba asked while drying her face with a small towel.

    ¡°Becky!¡±

    Reba turned and saw Ang sitting on the sofa enjoying a cup of chamomile tea.

    ¡°Ang!¡± Reba eximed happily. She half¨Cran to Ang and hugged her warmly.

    ¡°d to have you here, Reba said, throwing herself onto the sofa next to Ang.

    ¡°d to be here too! I had to step in personally to make sure your wedding preparations are going smoothly,¡± Ang said, grabbing Reba¡¯s hand and holding it warmly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what we would do without you, thanks, Ang,¡± Reba said sincerely.

    ¡°By the way, where is Sean?¡± she asked when she didn¡¯t see Sean anywhere.

    ¡°He¡¯s out buying the wedding ring. For that, I wouldn¡¯t represent him. I asked him to take you, but he said you¡¯d be tired since Lily kept waking upst night.¡±

    ¡°Wedding ring?¡± Reba muttered, half disbelieving she would be getting married again. She felt like a problematic celebrity who marries and divorces in the blink of an eye, and it wasn¡¯t something she could be proud of.

    ¡°Yeah, um, Becky dear, I haven¡¯t had the chance to say this properly, but I want to tell you how grateful I am that you eptet Sean and helped him out of the darkness in his life. You should know that you and Lily are a light for us,¡± Ang said, her voice trembling with emotion.

    Reba swallowed hard, feeling guilty for lying to Ang, but at least the idea of Sean. having a family in Manhattan was better than being a doctor who never left his clinic for his entire life.

    ¡°I¡¯m as grateful as you, Ang. I didn¡¯t expect to find a man willing to be a father to Lily. Sean and I, we¡¯ll learn to heal each other,¡± Reba said, her voice choked because those words were so true. They were two wounded people trying to heal and live normally.

    ¡°Listen, Becky. Just focus on yourself, your little family, your career, and ignore the noisy voices out there,¡± Ang said, making Reba frown and wonder about the

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    antipathetic expirsson on her fatture mother¨Cinw¡¯s face.

    Yeah, thanks, Ang. Um. I¡¯ll check on Lily for a bit, she might need milk. Just enjoy your breakfast¡± she said standing up and returning to her room.

    She quickly opened her phone and immediately found the answer. There were so people taceng ber on someone¡¯s post. She clicked on one, which led her to Cathy¡¯s

    post

    Becky has long admired Alicia Fox secretly and became quite obsessed with her. When Harvey dated Abca, she deliberately approached Harvey¡¯s grandfather, won his heart and made him force his grandson to marry her. She framed Alicia as a criminal. 1 beardi all from her own mouth and ensured this information is valid. I¡¯m not seeking fame. I just feel the need to tell the truth¡±

    Reba¡¯s face turned red instantly. Of all people, why Cathy? Even under pressure, how could she say that to everyone?

    FF

 BIT 78

    Reba paced back and forth in her room, her hands trembling. Honestly, she wouldn¡¯t care if someone else had said that, but Cathy was her good friend. How could she do that to her?

    She stopped near Lily¡¯s crib and crouched because her knees were too shaky. She felt very angry at a situation that always cornered her. But Ang¡¯s words echoed in her ears, that she just had to be selfish and prioritize herself.

    Once again, Lily¡¯s crics saved her from prolonged overthinking. She quickly picked up Lily and looked deeply into her face..

    ¡°I¡¯ll never let anyone take our happiness, Lily, I promise, even if I have to be a bitch,¡± she murmured, her eyes red as she finally shed tears.

    After almost an hour of calming herself<b>, </b>she came out of the room with Lily in her

    arms.

    ¡°Ang, sorry I suddenly fell asleep after bathing Lily and giving her milk,¡± Reba said with a guilty look.

    Ang smiled broadly,

    ¡°No problem, I¡¯ve been keeping myself busy with teleconferences to ensure everything goes smoothly tomorrow. You must be very tired. If you¡¯re still sleepy, you can continue sleeping, and I¡¯ll take care of Lily.¡±

    Suddenly, the front door opened, and Sean appeared, carrying several shopping bags in

    his hands.

    ¡°I bought burgers and fries for our lunch. Oh, my little princess!¡± Sean eximed, looking down at Lily in Reba¡¯s arms. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯ll wash my hands and change clothes,¡± Sean said as he hurriedly ced all the shopping bags on the kitchen ind and quickly headed to his room. But he suddenly remembered that his mother was there and would be confused to see him and Reba having separate rooms.

    Reba swallowed hard, thinking the same thing. ¡°Um, Ang, can you show me the wedding venue? I haven¡¯t had a chance to see it,¡± she said, deliberately bleski view and signaling to

    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s perfect, but four hundred guests? I don¡¯t even know

    Reba muttered, unsure.

    I would invite,¡±

    ¡°Well, I was about to tell you this, um, one of the wedding organizer staff suggested we invite fellow influencers or models or anyone in your contacts,¡± Ang said cautiously.

    ¡°What? For what? None of them have any real personal connection with me,¡± Reba replied, disliking the idea and not bothering to hide it.

    Ang nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. Um, actually, it was Sean¡¯s idea.¡±

    Reba red, ¡°Sean? Why?¡±

    ¡°Becky dear, Sean wants to give the impression that you¡¯ve moved on and left everything rted to the Specter family behind,¡± Ang said, trying to reassure Reba.

    ¡°Do you think so? Well, I don¡¯t know. After what Cathy said about me, I¡¯m not sure any famous person wants to deal with me now. I mean, even the public might hate me,¡± she said, gently stroking Lily¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re going to let that fire burn your entire career instead of trying to put it out?¡± Sean interrupted, suddenly appearing and dropping himself onto the sofa across from Reba.

    ¡°What are you trying to say?¡± Reba asked, confused.

    ¡°About your friend or ex¨Cfriend, Cathy. Do you know where she is now?¡± Sean asked

    calmhur

    Reba shook her head, ¡°Ist saw her at the airport when we first arrived here. She might have moved to a safer ce,¡± she answered, half¨Cdreaming.

    Sean opened his phone, scrolled, and searched for something. Shortly after, he showed Reba his phone screen.

    ¡°I identally found this, sent by one of your fans,¡± he said quickly.

    Reba frowned, feeling all her joints ache and her chest hurt when she saw Cathy and her family sunbathing at an expensive resort in Hawaii. She didn¡¯t look pressured at all as if she enjoyed tradingfort for her friend.

    ¡°I can¡¯t speak ill of Cathy, at least she was a good friend to me,¡± she said sadly.

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    Sean shrugged. ¡°Well, if you say so, Have you seen the wedding <i>ring</i><i>?</i>¡± he asked, trying to change the topic after seeing the sadness and disappointment on Reba¡¯s <b>face</b>.

    ¡°Not yet, show me, please!¡± Reba forced a smile, turning her gaze to the kitchen ind where Sean had ced all the shopping bags.

    ¡°Here, take a look,¡± Sean said, cing a ring box on the table in front of Reba, then leaned down to take Lily from her arms.

    Silently, Ang smiled with teary eyes. She never thought that after three years of hiding in the clinic, her only son could finally live his life properly again.

    Reba reached for the ring box and slowly opened it. Her eyes sparkled when she saw a beautiful ring with a sizable diamond on it.

    ¡°Sean, you didn¡¯t have to buy me a diamond. I mean, this wedding-¡± Reba swallowed hard, momentarily forgetting that Ang was there. ¡°I mean, this wedding is not my first time. I don¡¯t think I deserve it,¡± she said, feeling relieved she found the right words.

    ¡°Oh dear, what are you talking about? You have no idea how precious you are! You deserve more than this diamond ring. Don¡¯t ever say that again,¡± Ang interjected. sincerely.

    Reba looked up at Ang, her eyes suddenly ssy. ¡°Thanks, Ang,¡± she said with a choked voice.

    Suddenly, the doorbell rang loudly. Sean frowned and checked the surveince camera from his phone. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s the girl from the boutique yesterday. What was her name. again?¡±

    ¡°Cassic! Yeah, that¡¯s her name. I¡¯ll let her in,¡± Reba said, standing up and walking to the door.

    ¡°Hi, Cassie!¡± Reba greeted her like she was greeting an old friend. Cassie swallowed. hard and smiled nervously, making Reba frown in confusion.

    ¡°Cassic, what¡¯s with that face? And where¡¯s my dress<b>? </b>Is it still in the car?¡± Reba asked, curious because Cassie wasn¡¯t holding anything.

    ¡°Um, Ma¡¯am<b>, </b>can we talk?¡± Cassie asked nervously.

    ¡°Of course, let¡¯s get in,¡± Reba said, stepping back and letting Cassie into the condo.

    MUD

    ¡°Okay, Cassie, what happened?¡± Reba asked impatiently. Behind her, Sean and Ang were also listening to their conversation.

    Cassie burst into tears, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Becky, Alicia took the dress. Well, it wasn¡¯t literally her, but she did it through my manager. I¡¯m <b>sure </b>she gave my manager some money<i>. </i>I really couldn¡¯t do anything. I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she rambled, wiping her tears with her palm.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Cassie, it¡¯s not your fault,¡± Reba said, clenching her fists. She knew what Alicia was nning-

    1312 Thu Aug 15

 BIT 79

    ¡°Come here.¡± Reba took Cassie¡¯s hand and led her inside.

    ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself, dear. You¡¯ve done your job; it¡¯s okay,¡± Ang said, having

    listened to the conversation between Reba and Cassie..

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I should have done something, but I was so scared. I¡¯m sorry,¡± Cassie said, half¨Ccrying. Reba rubbed Cassie¡¯s back, ¡°I can find another dress; there¡¯s still time. Sit down, I¡¯ll get you a cold beer,¡± she said gently.

    Sean nodded at Cassie, encouraging her to sit on the sofa. Cassie wiped her tears and sat down hesitantly.

    ¡°Here, take a sip, and you¡¯ll feel better,¡± Reba said, handing her a cold beer she had just opened.

    ¡°So, let¡¯s go find another dress,¡± Sean suggested casually. Reba shook her head, surprising everyone. ¡°I¡¯ll order it online. Going to a bridal store will attract attention, and that¡¯s thest thing I want,¡± she said, taking a deep breath.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, dear, but don¡¯t you still need to do a fitting?¡± Ang interjected carefully.

    Cassie cleared her throat, ¡°Um, I can help with the size. I¡¯m kind of good at it,¡± she said, ¨C still looking down at the carpet beneath her feet.

    Reba¡¯s face lit up instantly, ¡°You¡¯re right! Wait, I¡¯ll get my iPad!¡± She hurried to her room and returned shortly with the iPad in her hand.

    ¡°Mom, can you hold Lily for a bit? I¡¯ll prepare lunch,¡± Sean said to Ang. Meanwhile, Reba and Cassie were busy choosing a dress and discussing the right size for Reba.

    ¡°Girls, lunch!¡± Sean called, arranging burgers and fries on the kitchen ind. Luckily, he had bought extra so that Cassie could have her share.

    ¡°Sean, I found the dress! This one, what do you think?¡± asked Reba, showing Scan the iPad¡¯s screen. Sean nodded excitedly, ¡°That will look good on you. Well, I mean everything looks good on you,¡± he said casually. Reba smiled slightly, feeling that Sean would always agree with all her choices, and she was sure that this would make their marriage smooth without conflict.

    ex

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    13.17 Thu, Aug 15 MU¡¤

    ¦°

    After ordering the wedding dress, which would be delivered immediately, Reba sat on a stool with Cassie and Sean, while Ang chose to keep Lilypany as she <b>was </b>still full from a te of waffles for breakfast.

    ¡°Miss Harper, I-¡®

    ¡°Just call me Becky, please,¡± Reba interrupted, chewing on french fries in her mouth.

    Cassie cleared her throat, ¡°Yeah, Becky, um, you might not know this, but I joined your fan group, and we all believe in you. None of us believe anything your friend posted about you,¡± she said cautiously.

    Reba quickly sipped her drink, talking about Cathy made her very ufortable because she had been a part of her life.

    ¡°Thanks, Cassic, but what did you just say? Fan group?¡± Reba asked, trying to change the subject.

    Cassie nodded, her smile widening. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone. She quickly scrolled and showed a chat group named Becky¡¯s Brush on her phone.

    evour!

    Reba stared in shock, ¡°Becky¡¯s Brush? That¡¯s sweet! Can I Only if you allow me, of course,¡± she said, shrugging.

    ¡°Are you kidding me? Of course, you can, just read it,¡± Cassie said, handing her phone to Reba. Sean just listened to their conversation while enjoying his burger, asionally smiling to support Reba.

    Reba¡¯s eyes filled with tears as she read the support from her fans. She wiped them.

    away

    with the cor of her shirt. ¡°Oh God, I never knew I had so many fans supporting me. Can you tell them I am very grateful for their support and how much they mean to me?¡± she said, handing Cassie¡¯s phone back to her.

    Cassie nodded, ¡°But you can tell them yourself, only if you want to,¡± she said, grinning. She could imagine the group¡¯s excitement when they found out she had lunch with Becky¨CBlushoff.

    Reba bit her lip, turning to look at Sean. ¡°She has a point, just make a video and send it to the group chat, and they¡¯ll be thrilled.¡±

    ¡°Okay then, I¡¯ll record it,¡± Reba decided. Finally, with Cassie¡¯s help, she made a thank¨Cyou video that was immediately sent to the group chat, and the reaction was

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    13:17 Thu, Aug <b>15 </b>BE

    beyond her expectations. They were all very excited and flooded the group chat with support, making Reba feel much better.

    ¡°Cassie, thank you so much. You¡¯ve really opened my eyes that there are still people who stay by my side until the end,¡± Reba said sincerely.

    Cassie smiled widely, ¡°Only fools believe Alicia, but Becky-¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡± Reba looked at Cassie seriously.

    Cassie cleared her throat softly. ¡°I think you should start being more active on your social media and use your tform to fight back. I mean, we¡¯ll support you more if you try your best to show that you¡¯re the right one,¡± she said, finishing her words with difficulty.

    Reba nodded hesitantly. Honestly, she had just thought about disappearing from social media for a while, but Cassie¡¯s words really opened her eyes. ¡°I will,¡± she said.

    Just twenty minutes after they finished lunch, the wedding dress Reba ordered arrived. ¡°Let¡¯s do the fitting!¡± Cassie eximed, looking more excited than the bride¨Cto- b¨¦.

    ¡°You have very good taste. I mean, look at this! Tomorrow the inte will be buzzing!¡± Cassie said, helping Reba adjust the wedding dress she was trying on..

    ¡°Can you please call Sean and Ang?¡±

    Shortly afterward, Sean and Ang appeared smiling broadly because Reba looked stunning. ¡°You will be the best bride of <b>the </b>year,¡± Sean said sincerely.

    Reba winced, not used to such praise from Sean¡¯s mouth, but Ang and Cassie were busy teasing her.

    After that, they gathered again in the living room and discussed tomorrow¡¯s wedding reception.

    ¡°Becky<b>, </b>can I help? With anything, I mean you can use my services for free,¡± Cassie said eagerly. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What? Free? Are you kidding me? Alright, you can help us today and tomorrow, and I¡¯ll pay you fairly,¡± Reba replied, which immediately made Cassie cheer happily.

    ¡°By the way, do any of you know when they¡¯re getting married? I mean Harvey and

    13/ Thu Aug 1 117<i>. </i>

    Alicia?¡± Sean asked, looking at Reba and Cassic alternately.

    Cassic shook her head, opened her phone, and slowly scrolled to find the answer, and a

    few secondster, ¡°They just announced it five minutes ago!¡± Cassie eximed,

    covering her mouth with one free hand.

    Reba looked at Cassie curiously.

    ¡°It¡¯s tomorrow,¡± Cassic said, staring in disbelief.

    Reba was stunned, ¡°This can¡¯t be a coincidence, c

 BIT 80

    Chapter <b>80 </b>

    2+68

    The next day, Hollywood was abuzz! Becky¨CBlushoff and her ex¨Chusband, Harvey Specter, were both set to get married to their respective partners on the same day. The news appeared on almost every gossip site, flooding Reba¡¯s social media withments and direct messages.

    Reba woke up with a mix of emotions, not just because her wedding with Sean was that day, but also because she still struggled to ept that Harvey was truly marrying Alicia. This shattered all her hopeful assumptions that Harvey had disappeared from her and Lily¡¯s lives due to Victoria¡¯s threats.

    She looked at Lily and suddenly felt the urge to cry. When she brought her beautiful daughter into the world, she never imagined her life would be this chaotic, especially since Harvey was by her side back then. And today, Lily had to face the reality that her parents would officially part ways and marry other people. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, baby¡­¡±

    Sensing her mother¡¯s distress, Lily woke up and started crying. ¡°Oh, my baby, you¡¯re awake too?¡± murmured Reba as she bent down and lifted Lily out of the crib. She cradled her and went about her motherly routine as if it were just another normal day. An hourter, there was a knock on her door. She opened it with one hand while holding Lily with the other.

    ¡°Morning,¡± greeted Sean, standing in the doorway with his hair still damp.

    Reba smiled, ¡°Morning.¡±

    ¡°You haven¡¯t forgotten we¡¯re getting married today, have you?¡± Sean asked, leaning his head against the doorframe.

    Reba chuckled, ¡°Of course not. Can you take care of Lily while I get ready?¡±

    ¡°Sure. My mom called earlier and said she¡¯ll go straight to the wedding venue from the hotel, so it¡¯ll be just the three of us,¡± Sean said, gently taking Lily from Reba¡¯s arms.

    ¡°Okay<b>, </b>I¡¯ll be ready in an hour, I think,¡± Reba said, grimacing.

    ¡°Of course you will be,¡± Sean replied with a small smile.

    Reba sat at her vanity, staring at her reflection. For a moment, she felt as if her hands were too heavy to lift the makeup brush. But then she remembered the supportive

    messages from her fan group who believed in her. She took a deep breath, stood up. and set up her camera on a tripod.

    ¡°Maybe this is the right time toe back, Reba whispered. She took a deep breath and pressed the record button.

    Thirty minutester, she finished her makeup and hairdo and ended the recording. She felt relieved, finally feeling like herself again.

    ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± Reba announced, standing behind Sean, who was ying with Lily. Sean turned around, unable to hide his admiration. Just one word: stunning,¡± he said, smiling.

    ¡°Really? That¡¯s good. Okay, you should get changed,¡± Reba said, sitting on the sofa and smiling at Lily in her bouncer.

    Sean nodded and went to his room, returning a few minutester in his tuxedo.

    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s a bit crooked, Reba said, standing up to adjust his tie.

    Sean cleared his throat nervously. Thanks,¡± he said, looking closely at Reba, finally realizing how beautiful she <b>was </b>

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get married!¡± Reba eximed, lifting Lily from the bouncer and heading towards the door, with Sean carrying Lily¡¯s diaper bag and bottle behind her.

    As they stepped out of the condo, Reba was startled by the swarm of paparazzi around their car. ¡°How did they find out where we live?¡± Reba hissed. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, just cover Lily¡¯s face and don¡¯t let them take any pictures of her. She¡¯s just a baby, for God¡¯s sake,¡± Sean grumbled angrily.

    ¡°Hi, Becky! Did you know your ex¨Chusband is also getting married today?¡± one of the paparazzi shouted, aiming his camera at Reba¡¯s face.

    ¡°Sorry, we¡¯re in a hurry.¡± Reba replied, quickly getting into the car and securing Lily in her car seat. ¡°Just drive, Sean. I¡¯ll stay back here.¡± Reba said, unwilling to step out again with the paparazzi surrounding them.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Sean honked the horn, urging them to move, but one of the paparazzi hit the car¡¯s hood hard, nearly causing Sean to lose his temper.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, Sean! Just drive, please!¡± Reba pleaded. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but Alicia must have

    13.17

    Chapter Ro

    Aug 15

    slipped a few of her people among them, she muttered, clenching her fists.

    They <b>arrived </b>at the church a few minutester, finding arge crowd outside.

    Who are these people?¡± Reba asked, almost sure she didn¡¯t recognize anyone in the crowd.

    Sean shook his head, equally puzzled.

    ¡°Guys!¡± Cassie suddenly appeared in a lc dress. ¡°The guests are already filling up the room. Oh, Becky, you look absolutely stunning and perfect!¡± Cassie gushed sincerely.

    ¡°Do I? Where¡¯s Ang?¡± Reba asked, taking Lily out of her car seat.

    ¡°Ang¡¯s inside. She invited a lot of her friends, Cassie whispered, stifling augh.

    ¡°These people?¡± Reba asked, eyeing the crowd filling the church yard.

    Cassie nodded. ¡°Your mother¨Cinw invited manymunity members because she knew you didn¡¯t have many people to invite. Come on, this way,¡± she said, guiding Reba to another part of the church where Ang finally appeared, smiling broadly. ¡°Thank God, I thought you changed your mind,¡± Ang chirped cheerfully.

    Reba and Sean winced. They were both surprised by the unexpected number of guests, which made Reba a bit ufortable since they were all strangers.

    ¡°Mom, did you really have to invite so many people?¡± Sean asked, reading Reba¡¯s thoughts.

    Ang winced, ¡°Um, wouldn¡¯t it look sad if no one showed up? Besides, they¡¯re all from validmunities. Just don¡¯t think about it,¡± she said, waving her hand dismissively.

    Reba sighed deeply, feeling a bit disappointed and fearful of bringing Lily into a ce filled with strangers. ¡°Becky dear, you should get ready. I¡¯ll take care of Lily,¡± Ang said, reaching out to take Lily, but Reba stepped back, holding Lily tightly.

    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±

 BIT 81

    <b>+ </b>68% Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

    Sean and Ang stared at each other in shock. ¡°Becky, what happened?¡± Sean asked calmly. Reba hugged Lily tightly, ¡°I can¡¯t leave Lily without my supervision,¡± she said. quickly.

    Sean and Ang sighed in relief, for a moment they thought Reba wanted to call off the wedding. Sean stepped closer to Reba, his hand raised to caress Lily¡¯s soft cheek. ¡°My mom will sit right in front of the altar, I will keep an eye on them and make sure with my own eyes that no one will take Lily away from us, okay?¡± Sean said, nodding his head, trying to reassure Reba that everything would be alright.

    Reba swallowed hard, ncing at Ang and finding her smiling understandingly. She took a deep breath, ¡°I know this sounds stupid, but can I trust you both?¡±

    ¡°Becky, if we wanted to take Lily from you, we would have done it from the beginning. Besides, why would we do that? Not to boast, but our family is one of the wealthiest in Boston. We have no motivation that would harm you or Lily, but the decision hands. You know you can cancel this wedding anytime, and that¡¯s okay,¡± Sean said

    is in your cautiously.

    Reba swallowed again, ncing at Ang once more and seeing her hopeful face. She must be very hopeful for this wedding because if it was canceled, Sean might withdraw again and hide in his clinic, dedicating his life to being a pediatrician.

    Reba took a deep breath. She closed her eyes for a moment before finally nodding her head. She could see Ang sigh in relief.

    ¡°Alright, Sean will watch over Lily until he has to stand at the altar. Don¡¯t worry, okay?¡± Ang said, gently rubbing Reba¡¯s back.

    ¡°Is everything okay?¡± Cassie asked, suddenly appearing.

    ¡°Not really,¡± Reba replied. She felt very alone because she didn¡¯t have any family or friends to share her feelings with at that moment.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, everything will be alright. Do you want to do a video call with Becky- Brush? Some of them are gathering at someone¡¯s house to watch the live streaming of your wedding,¡± Cassie said, smiling broadly.

    Reba frowned, ¡°What did you say? Live streaming? I have no idea about that,¡± she murmured, confused.

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    Cassie cleared her throat, ¡°Actually, it was my idea, just for our internal group chat. Um, sorry, I should have talked to you first, but you know what? I can cancel it if you

    don¡¯t like the idea,¡± she said, her face turning pale with fear that her idol would be angry and disappointed with her.

    Seeing Cassie¡¯s reaction made Reba feel bad about canceling the live stream. She finally sighed and nodded, ¡°No, it¡¯s fine.¡±

    ¡°Really? Thank you, Becky! I knew I wasn¡¯t wrong in choosing you as my idol! Want to do a quick video call? We still have ten minutes before the ceremony starts,¡± Cassie babbled, pulling her phone out of her small bag.

    Reba nodded, ¡°Sure, maybe it could be a mood booster for me,¡± she said. Secretly, she pitied herself because she realized she didn¡¯t have anyone she could truly confide in.

    Soon, the video call was connected, and Reba could see about fifty people gathered in a ce that looked like a backyard.

    ¡°Guys, how¡¯s it going there? Having fun?¡± Cassie greeted, still hiding Reba from the

    camera<b>. </b>

    ¡°Yeah, we just finished a swimming race! Lots of food and drinks! When will the event start?¡± one of them asked, their voicepeting with the noise in the background.

    ¡°In ten minutes. Caitlyn<b>, </b>can you connect my video call to the big screen? There¡¯s something I want you all to see,¡± Cassie said, holding back a smile.

    ¡°What? Okay, okay, wait!¡± The woman named Caitlyn disappeared from the screen for a moment and soon returned, slightly out of breath. ¡°Done! What do you want us to see? It¡¯s better be good because you¡¯ve made the whole group curious,¡± she said, switching her camera to the rear one to show people starting to focus on the screen still showing Cassie¡¯s face.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll make it fast, we don¡¯t have much time because the ceremony will start soon. So here we

    go, one, two, three¡­¡±

    Cassie handed her phone to Reba, who immediately smiled nervously in front of the camera. It took a few seconds for them to realize that Becky¨CBlushoff was doing a video call with them.

    ¡°BECKY!!!¡± Everyone screamed hysterically, but after a while, Caitlyn raised her hand,

    °×

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    211, Thu An

    signaling everyone to be quiet so they could bear Becky¡¯s speech connected to the speaker.

    Reba looked at them with teary eyes. She cleared her throat softly, ¡°Hi guys, I¡¯m really speechless.¡±

    They cheered loudly, then quicted again as Caitlyn raised her hand and red at them.

    ¡°I always knew I had millions of followers on social media, but I never knew some of them were truly my supporters,¡± Reba said, her voice choking. She blinked. repeatedly, trying not to cry as she didn¡¯t want to ruin her makeup.

    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m very nervous today, I think you know why, and seeing you all gathered there to support me really makes me feel better. I feel happy to have a group of people I can call family.¡±

    A loud apuse was heard from the other side, some of them crying too.

    ¡°Becky, I¡¯m speaking on behalf of the Brushes here. We want you to know that we believe in you and fully support you. We want you to know that most of use from the same background as you. We all grew up in orphanages like you, that¡¯s what unites us and makes us feel you are part of us. So, listen, you are not alone! You have us, your Brushes!¡±

    Reba couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. On the other side, Cassie quickly took out a tissue and handed it to her. They ended the call a few secondster, just as a wedding organizer staff member appeared and called Reba to get ready.

    ¡°Becky, I will watch over Lily, don¡¯t worry, good luck!¡± Cassie whispered with a big smile. Reba felt much better afterward, realizing that the burden on her chest had to be released, holding it back would only make it pile up and explode.

    She stood at the entrance of the church, with no one to walk her down the aisle because she didn¡¯t have any family or male friends. But suddenly, ¡°Becky!¡±

    Reba turned to the voice and saw Jacob running towards her. She stared, ¡°Jacob? What are you doing here?¡±

    Jacob took a deep breath, ¡°You came back to New York without telling me? You really disappointed me,¡± he said, making Reba swallow hard, not knowing what to say.

    ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll walk you down the aisle, only if you don¡¯t mind,¡± Jacob added, looking at the wedding organizer staff and Reba alternately.

    Ox

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    ¡°Great! What do you think, ma¡¯am?¡°¡± the wedding organizer asked hopefully.

    Reba swallowed hard, staring at Jacob for a few moments, unsure why Jacob would do that for her. ¡°Are you sure? You¡¯re not here because Victoria Specter sent you, right?¡± the asked, unable to trust anyone because she was too afraid of losing Lily

    Jacob took a deep breath, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m that low? Well, someone did tell me toe, but it wasn¡¯t Victoria¡±

    Reba stared in shock, ¡°Then who**

 BIT 82

    Jacob took a deep breath, but before he could exin, the wedding organizer staff interrupted them because the ceremony was about to begin.

    ¡°So, is he walking you down the aisle or not?¡± the wedding organizer asked quickly.

    Reba looked at Jacob for a long time, and deep down, she knew Jacob had always been on her side since they identally met when she was crying in front of Jacob¡¯s Caf¨¦, exhausted by her life. Finally, she nodded, causing Jacob to smile slightly, though she could sense disappointment in his face.

    The music yed, and Reba entered the church with Jacob walking beside her, causing Sean, Ang, and Cassie to frown in confusion because they didn¡¯t know who

    he was.

    Reba¡¯s heart pounded loudly in her ears. From a distance, she could see Sean standing in his ck tuxedo, looking more handsome than usual. Suddenly, she heard Jacob whisper, ¡°Are you sure about this? There¡¯s still time to call it off if you want.¡± Reba swallowed hard, not ncing at Jacob at all, and focused her gaze on Sean.

    ¡®I don¡¯t love Scan like I loved Harvey, but all the craziness about Harvey and me has to stop here, or it will never end. Enough is enough! If Harvey can easily do what he wants, why can¡¯t I? Besides, Sean is a good father, and Lily will get theplete family she deserves. I don¡¯t even care about love anymore! Reba thought to herself.

    She didn¡¯t respond to Jacob¡¯s words and kept her eyes on Sean, who looked at her with hope as if he was cing his entire life in her hands.

    ¡°Please take care of my friend. If I ever hurt her, you know who you¡¯ll have to face,¡± Jacob whispered as he handed Reba to Scan, and Reba could hear it clearly, sending chills down her spine.

    ¡°Hey, are you ready?¡± Sean whispered, barely moving his lips so no one else could eavesdrop. Reba nodded nervously, ncing at Lily and seeing her sleeping soundly in Ang¡¯s arms, her new grandmother.

    ¡°For Lily,¡± Reba said, her voice choking.

    Sean nodded, ¡°For Lily¡±

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    The ceremony proceeded solemnly, and when Sean recited his vows, Reba couldn¡¯t hold back her tears because she felt they were both sacrificing themselves for the happiness of the ones they loved.

    ¡°Reba Harper, I vow to love you and Lily and protect you with my life,¡± Sean ended his vow with a trembling voice. Reba knew that as he said those vows, Sean must have felt guilty <b>as </b>if he were saying goodbye to Maggie and Bea.

    ¡°I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride!¡±

    Reba and Sean looked at each other awkwardly; they had never had any physical intimacy before. Sean stepped forward and whispered, ¡°May I<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    Reba nodded and closed her eyes, letting Scan kiss her gently. There were no special thrills, no electric shocks, until Sean released the kiss apanied by the apuse of the guests.

    Shortly after, Reba was sure she had no feelings for Sean and was convinced that their marriage would only make them like a pair of friends.

    During the photo session, Reba¡¯s eyes searched for Jacob but couldn¡¯t find him anywhere.

    ¡°Cassie, did you see my friend, um, the one who walked me to the altar?¡± she asked Cassic, who had just taken a photo with her.

    Cassic shook her head while looking around, ¡°No, I was too focused on you. Do you want me to look for him?¡±

    Reba nodded, ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, squeezing Cassie¡¯s shoulder gently. A few minutester, ¡°I¡¯ve looked everywhere, but I can¡¯t find him,¡± Cassie said, slightly out of breath.

    Reba frowned, not understanding why Jacob showed up and then disappeared and who had sent him here.

    ¡°Thanks, Cassic.¡±

    ¡°Sean, can Lilye with us in the wedding car? I can¡¯t-¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Sean interrupted, nodding lightly. After the blessing ceremony, they all headed to the restaurant venue Ang had booked for the reception.

    13:18 Thu, Aug 15 W.

    ¡°Becky,¡± Ang called as Reba was about to walk out of the church. Reba turned and saw her mother¨Cinw looking at her with teary eyes<b>. </b>¡°Thank you,¡± Ang said instead of congrattions<b>. </b>

    Reba felt her eyes warm up, ¡°Me too,¡± she said, letting Ang hug her and Lily warmly. ¡°You don¡¯t know it, but you¡¯ve saved someone¡¯s life,¡± Ang said, half¨Ccrying.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Ang took a deep breath, took out her phone, and showed something to Reba. ¡°E helped me clean up Sean¡¯s room at the clinic and found a folder on his PC containing his notes, and I couldn¡¯t believe it because apparently, he always wished he would die.¡±

    Reba read quickly and got goosebumps knowing that Sean thought about death every day.

    In the car on the way to the restaurant, Reba secretly watched Sean and felt very sorry for him. ¡°Sean¡­¡±

    Sean turned, ¡°Yes?¡± he asked, then looked back at the road.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Reba said sincerely.

    Sean turned, surprised, then nodded. ¡°But I should be thanking you, and Lily. So, we¡¯re family now, right?¡±

    Reba chuckled, ¡°We are.¡±

    ¡°Um, can I ask you something? You don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to,¡± Sean said, casually.

    ¡°Sure, what is it?¡± Reba asked, curious.

    ¡°Your best friend who walked you down the aisle, who is he?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath,

    ¡°His name is Jacob. Though not intensely, we¡¯re pretty good friends because he¡¯s always there in my worst moments. I didn¡¯t tell him about our wedding, but suddenly he came just to walk me down the aisle, and then he disappeared,¡± she answered, half¨Cdreaming. ¡°He also told me that someone sent him toe, I thought it was one of The Specters,

    ww

    13:18 Thu, Aug 15 MW.

    but he said someone else sent him, but who? N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Sean frowned, ¡°That¡¯s weird.¡±

    68%

    Reba sighed, wishing she could contact Jacob, but all her contacts were lost when she decided to cut ties with everyone from her past some time ago<b>. </b>

    Suddenly Reba¡¯s phone vibrated, it was from Cassie.

    ¡°Yes, Cassie?¡±

    ¡°Becky, someone messed up your wedding venue. We¡¯re checking the CCTV!¡±

    Reba clenched her fists, ¡°Alicia must be beh

 BIT 83

    Chapter <b>83 </b>

    ¡°What happened?¡± Sean asked tensely.

    ¡°Cassie said someone trashed our wedding venue. She¡¯s checking the CCTV now, but I¡¯m sure Alicia is behind this,¡± Reba replied, gripping her phone with trembling hands in anger.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her? Shouldn¡¯t she be happy you married another man and not Harvey?¡± Sean muttered in confusion.

    ¡°She¡¯s hated me from the start, truly hated me. She doesn¡¯t like the paparazzi chasing me and putting me in the spotlight. She wants to destroy me, even though she¡¯s already gotten what she wanted,¡± Reba said, turning her face to the window.

    Her phone vibrated again shortly after. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Cassie?¡±

    ¡°Becky, you don¡¯t need toe,¡± Cassie said, holding back tears. Reba straightened up. ¡°Cassie, what happened? Where¡¯s Ang?

    ¡°They left. All the guests left the venue, I don¡¯t know why. Here, I¡¯ll pass you to Ang,¡± Cassie replied.

    ¡°Becky, <b>just </be back home. I¡¯m sorry, this is out of my control, I really don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on. I¡¯m sorry,¡± Ang said, struggling to hold back her tears.

    Reba felt her chest swell with rage. ¡°No, Sean, Lily, and I will stille. Wait there and report the vandalism to the authorities.¡±

    ¡°Is it that bad?¡± Sean asked, confused.

    ¡°All the guests left without any clear reason. I don¡¯t know how bad the damage is, but from what Cassie and Ang said, it sounds pretty bad,¡± Reba said, so angry that her whole body was trembling.

    Sean sighed deeply. ¡°Have you checked social media? Maybe Harvey and Alicia¡¯s wedding got canceled, and that made Alicia furious,¡± he said tly.

    Reba¡¯s stomach churned instantly. Sean¡¯s words ignited a hope in her mind that Harvey and Alicia¡¯s wedding might have been called off. She quickly shook her head, realizing her naivety. She had to let go of any hope for reconciliation with Harvey.

    Chapter n

    Aud

    Her fingers moved quickly over her phone, dening her social media, and on her explore page, without even searching, the news popped up.

    Weddingpetitions between Harvey¨CAlicia and Becky¨CSean held today, click this

    link for details!¡±

    ¡°Bitch!¡± Reba cursed, causing Sean to turn jo her.

    ¡°Are they married?¡± Sean asked curiously.

    ¡°That bitch is wearing my dress, the one she stole from the boutique! I¡¯m so done with her. I¡¯ll expose everything to the public! This is enough!¡± Reba ranted, her breathing in angry gasps.

    Sean sighed deeply, then reached out and gently rubbed Reba¡¯s shoulder, trying to calm her down.

    Suddenly, Lily, who had been sleeping in the baby car seat, started crying loudly, Reba and Scan turned in surprise.

    ¡°Sorry, baby, mommy talked too loud! We¡¯ll be there in a minute, okay?¡±

    A few minutester, they arrived at the restaurant building that was supposed to be their wedding lunch venue. Reba quickly jumped out of the car to calm Lily.

    ¡°She seems hungry. I¡¯ll make her some milk, Sean said. His hands deftly took out the milk from the bag.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get in, I¡¯ll carry her,¡± Sean said, taking Lily from Reba¡¯s arms and holding her while feeding her the bottle.

    Reba walked into the restaurant with a tenke face.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Cassie shouted when she saw Reba enter through the front door.

    Reba looked up and saw Cassie and Ang sitting on one of the sofas with gloomy faces.

    ¡°Upstairs,¡± Cassie said, understanding from Reba¡¯s gaze that she wanted to see the ce that should have been their wedding lunch venue.

    Reba quickly climbed the spiral staircase with Sean following behind her. Some restaurant staff started whispering and pointing at her.

    275

    DramaBox

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    Reba¡¯s eyes widened when she saw the trashed venue. Some chairs and tables were even broken, thrown far from where they should have been.

    ¡°CCTV?¡± she asked Cassie.

    ¡°None, they covered all the cameras with paper,¡± Cassie replied gloomily. ¡°And the bad news is we have topensate for all the damages because the restaurant is ming us,¡± she added, frowning sadly.

    Reba took a deep breath, closed her eyes, feeling her head pounding.

    ¡°This is insane. Alicia can do all this and get away with it. Isn¡¯t this unfair?¡± Reba ranted in despair. She turned to Cassie, ¡°I don¡¯t understand, when exactly did this vandalism happen?¡±

    <b>¡°</b>When we arrived, everything was already ruined<b>. </b>The restaurant manager has contacted the NYPD; I think they¡¯re handling it,¡± Cassie replied.

    ¡°And why did the guests leave just like that?¡± Sean interjected<b>, </b>still holding Lily in his

    arms.

    ¡°Ang asked one of her friends from themunity, and she said-

    ¡°She said what?¡± Reba demanded impatiently as Cassie hesitated.

    ¡°There was a rumor spreading to avoid eating anything at your wedding because the food might be poisoned by your haters¡­¡±

    Reba closed her eyes, trying not to scream because of Lily.

    ¡°Excuse me, can I meet the manager or someone from the NYPD?¡± Reba asked one of the staff passing by.

    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡±

    Reba turned and saw two officers walking towards her.

    ¡°Did you find anything, sir?¡± Reba asked, not hiding her annoyance.

    ¡°Nothing, not even a fingerprint. We¡¯ll check the surrounding CCTV and update you if we find anything,¡± the officer said, stifling a yawn.

    ¡°What if I give you a clue because Th

    sure this is connected to Alicia Fox,¡± Reba said,

    T

    Aber exchanging credit, the ow

    H

    T

    Year over all the Garages. You know I ell have enough cash-

    ¡°What amy taking about. I¡¯ve paid them, an ago We are all humges.¡± ¡°Stan ameempre?, thes sodder¨¦ at kap and Caro Saliow

    ve grang¡± Reberriaked once they were back in the

    ¡°A Fior, it¡¯s for right¡± Sean repiled cumly as feierything was ine.

    Rebeca nodded. Honesty, she had in her appenne, but she had no respect Sear Angelis, and Casser, who might want the line inch together. Fortunately her wedding dress won¡¯t long and cumbersome

    Five minutes linen, they armed at Fifth Ave. Sen stopped the car in freer of the Langham Hand lobby and handed the keys the valet service

    Bond

    to

    ¡°Have you reserved the cable? Reba advancing Sean take Lay out of the car

    ¡°Of course, let¡¯s gr

    Reba sock Ang¡¯s hand, then nodded at Cassie, signaling her to follow her and Sean

    ¡°Why is it so crowded Reba munered, looking around

    ¡°Maybe there¡¯s a wedding in the ballroom, Cassie said, rubbing her hungry stomach

    Suddenly, the crowd moved towards them, heading to the lobby Reba turned to the lobby and realized a wedding car was waiting there, and the writing on the car made her

    stomach chars instant

    ¡°We have to leave,¡± she whispered. But she was toote, as the crowd moved closer, and that meeting was inevitable.

    ¡°Oh God,¡± muttered Cassie in disbelief.

    Reba felt her heart stop beating when she saw Harvey standing before her as the groom for somebody else.

 BIT 84

    The crowd turned silent for a moment, a tense hush as everyone realized that the unwanted meeting had finally happened. Reba, Sean, Harvey, and Alicia, each in their wedding outfits, stood out starkly from the people around them.

    Reba dared to look at Harvey, and the sting was still there. Her heart pounded hard. and the hated that reaction. It felt like she was betraying Lily every time she felt a rush of emotions towards Harvey. She could see the surprise, astonishment<b>, </b>and jealousy in Harvey¡¯s eyes. Or was it just her imagination? But she was sure Harvey looked

    displeased when he saw Sean suddenly wrap his <b>arm </b>around her waist, with Lily sleepingfortably <b>in </b>his arms, as if he was showing the world that they were a happy little family.

    <i>Then </i>her eyes moved to Alicia, who was smirking at her. If she followed her ego, she could confront Alicia right there, in front of everyone, but she knew that would only make people think she still hoped for Harvey.

    ¡°Are you stalking us?¡± Alicia hissed, deliberately provoking trouble.

    ¡°Becky, let¡¯s go, there¡¯s no need to listen to a donkey talk. Such a waste of time. Sean interjected before Reba could respond. He took Reba¡¯s hand, pulling her from the crowd, with Ang and Cassie following behind.

    away

    Reba saw Harvey and was sure she saw him mouth wait¡® silently. But Sean¡¯s grip on her hand reminded her that she had to stop thinking about the man who had abandoned her. She took a deep breath and tried to stay cal

    Entering the Ai Fiori restaurant, they were greeted by two hosts who led them to their table. And as if the day couldn¡¯t get worse, Reba crossed paths with Victoria, who had juste out of the powder room.

    Reba¡¯s steps stopped automatically. She stood just two feet in front of Victoria, who was ring at her.

    ¡°Missed New York already, Harper?¡± Victoria hissed coldly<i>. </i>

    ¡°Parker, it¡¯s Parker now, Ma¡¯am,¡± Sean interjected, as usual saving Reba from anyone trying to attack her.

    Victoria snorted, ¡°What kind of fake marriage are you involved in now, huh? Do you think I¡¯m stupid?¡±

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    12 19 Thu mua 13

    <b>Chapter </b>84

    <b>¡°</b>Fake or not, it¡¯s none <b>of </b>your business! But liten carefully, Reba Parker and Lily Parker are part of me now, so if you ever darey a hand on them, you¡¯ll have to deal <b>with </b>me.¡± Sean hissed, stepping forward to stand level with Reba, who just stared <b>at </b>Victoria with clenched fists.

    Victoria covered her mouth, suppressing augh,

    ¡°That sounds scary, well, nice try considering you¡¯re a pediatrician,¡± she remarked sarcastically.

    Sean grabbed Victoria¡¯s wrist and held it tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t try me! I can do worse if you keep bothering my family. Do you think I¡¯m a moral doctor? Oh, you¡¯re so wrong! I can kill someone without remorse if I want to, so mind your inheritance and don¡¯t ever touch my family!¡±

    Reba shivered at Sean¡¯s words; for a moment, it was like he was possessed. Victoria¡¯s face turned pale instantly, she shook off Sean¡¯s hand, and quickly walked away from them.

    ¡°Sean, what was that?¡± Ang asked, her voice trembling, thinking there was something she didn¡¯t know about her beloved son. Beside Ang, Cassie was wringing her sweaty hands, also looking at Sean with a fearful face waiting for an answer.

    Sean shrugged casually, ¡°A little bluff, I copied that scene from a movie I watchedst night. Did my acting seem that real? Well, you didn¡¯t expect me to cry and beg the old. witch, did you?¡± he said as he pulled out a chair and sat down calmly as if nothing had happened.

    Reba swallowed hard; she wanted to believe Sean¡¯s words, but the look in Sean¡¯s eyes when he threatened Victoria reminded her of Nichs, and it made her uneasy. She nced at the table where Victoria was sitting with some of her socialite friends and was almost sure her former mother¨Cinw was still shaken.

    ¡°Becky, can I post on social media about the vandalism at your wedding venue? <b>I </b>mean, the news is already out there, I just need to make a narrative that Alicia Fox might be behind it,¡± Cassie chattered, making Reba turn her gaze away from Victoria.

    use:

    Reba sighed deeply and nodded. ¡°Do what you want, Cassie, I don¡¯t have the right to stop you, but make sure you don¡¯t real ount, Alicia saw your face earlier,¡± she replied wearily.

    Cassie grinned, ¡°I won¡¯t!¡±

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    Reba and Sean took turns cating because they forgot to bring Lily¡¯s stroller, and Victoria watched them from afar, secretly observing the scene.

    As Reba was enjoying her dessert, Victoria suddenly approached.

    ¡°We need to talk,¡± she said, her chin held high, refusing to show any weakness.

    ¡°Just talk, there¡¯s no secret here,¡± Reba said, shrugging, trying to show that she wasn¡¯t intimidated.

    Victoria looked around the table and saw everyone staring at her, waiting for her to speak.¨CShe cleared her throat twice and then returned her gaze to Reba. ¡°Stay away from New York if you want your life to be peaceful!¡± she threatened firmly.

    Reba shook her head, ¡°I can¡¯t, my husband and I both have jobs here,¡± she replied calmly, fighting the fear raging inside her.

    Victoria red angrily, ¡°Admit it, you want to use Lily to im Harvey¡¯s fortune in the future, right? Do you think I¡¯m stupid?¡±

    ¡°Yo, Vicky!¡± Sean snapped angrily. ¡°Lily is my daughter, she¡¯s not your granddaughter or Harvey¡¯s daughter! We¡¯re going to change her name legally, and the Specter name will never be part of her. So can you just chill?¡± Sean said casually. He took a deep breath, ¡°And one more thing, seriously, have you never heard of the Parker family from Boston? Reba doesn¡¯t need your money, trust me,¡± he continued with a mocking smile, deliberately trying to break Victoria¡¯s spirit.

    Victoria red, ¡°For your information, your wealth doesn¡¯tpare to our family¡¯s, not even half. Make sure your baby changes herst name and never associate her with- Harvey again, because if you lie, I¡¯lle myself and eliminate her!¡±

    Sean stood up,

    ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for not wanting to shock my daughter, I would have thrown this ss at your face. Vicky, stop threatening, okay? I¡¯m pretty good with <b>a </b>scalpel during a C- section, so I can try that skill on your wrinkled face,¡± he hissed, one hand holding a steak knife stained with mushroom sauce.

    Victoria¡¯s face turned red instantly, she threw onest sharp look at Reba before walking away. Reba took a deep breath, then turned to look at Sean and stared at him intently.

    ¡°Sean, is there something you¡¯re not telling me<b>?</b>¡±

 BIT 85

    Sean frowned and shook his head. ¡°Are you asking that because of my behavior towards. Victoria? Because if that¡¯s the reason, it means I have some pretty good acting skills,¡± he replied calmly.

    Reba didn¡¯t respond because she knew Sean¡¯s words made sense, even though, to be honest, he had sounded terrifying earlier. After finishing their meal, they quickly left Ai Fiori.

    ¡°Um, I¡¯m going straight home,¡± Cassie said once they were in the lobby of the Langham hotel where Ai Fiori is located.

    ¡°Okay, you¡¯ve sent your bank ount number, right?¡± Reba asked, not wanting Cassie to do everything for free.

    Cassie shook her head. ¡°You don¡¯t need to pay me again, Becky. Ang already did,¡± she said with a grin, ncing at Ang.

    Reba stared in surprise. ¡°Ang, you can¡¯t pay for everything, it makes me feel ufortable,¡± she said seriously.

    Ang waved her hand dismissively. ¡°Nonsense! I want to for

    pay wedding, what¡¯s wrong with that? Besides, it¡¯s a one¨Ctime thing, I mean, hopefully, this

    my children¡¯s will be thest marriage for both of you,¡± she said, looking at Reba and Sean alternately.

    Reba just grimaced; of course, she didn¡¯t share the same prayer as Ang.

    ¡°You two go home, I¡¯ll head straight to the hotel and then back to Boston,¡± Ang said, shooing Reba and Sean into their car.

    ¡°What? We¡¯re going to take you to the hotel and then to the airport, I won¡¯t take no for an answer,¡± Reba said firmly, finding it impossible to let her elderly mother¨Cinw do everything herself when the reason for her visit to New York was to take care of their wedding.

    ¡°Unfortunately, I already have my own ride,¡± Ang said, winking. Reba and Sean looked at the car that had just stopped behind theirs, with a man of Ang¡¯s age behind the wheel.

    ¡°That¡¯s my friend, Ed. Give me a hug, make sure youe home every Thanksgiving

    and Christmas,¡± Ang said, hugging Scan and Reba in turn, then kissing Lily¡¯s head. gently.

    ¡°Ang, thank you so much!¡± Reba said, holding Ang¡¯s hand before she got into.

    the <b>car</b>.

    Ang shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t. I owe you a lifetime of gratitude,¡± she whispered. She lifted Reba¡¯s hand and kissed it, her eyes welling up.

    ¡°Becky, my Uber¡¯s here, thanks for letting me be part of your wedding crew, such an honor,¡± Cassie said sincerely.

    ¡°I should be the one thanking you, say hi to everyone at Becky Brushes for me, take care, Cassie.¡± Reba quickly hugged Cassic and watched her get into the Uber.

    ¡°Done, shall we?¡± Sean said, waving to Cassie.

    Reba nodded and jumped into the car. She checked on Lily, who was sleeping soundly in the back, then leaned her tired back against the seat.

    ¡°Tell me what¡¯s on your mind?¡± Sean suddenly asked while keeping his eyes on the road.

    Reba took a deep breath and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, it¡¯splicated, but at least we¡¯re married now,¡± she replied tly. She was quite surprised that her feelings. became even more chaotic after they were officially married.

    ¡®That¡¯s because you met Harvey earlier, a voice in her head chimed in.

    <i>80 </i>

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell mywyer to change Lily¡¯sst name, after this everything will go back to normal. You can do anything without worrying that Victoria will do something to you or Lily,¡± Sean chattered cheerfully.

    Reba grimaced, ¡°Yeah, I hope so, but I think Alicia will never stop. I think she has marked me as her eternal enemy.¡± Talking about Alicia reminded her of their earlier meeting. Alicia¡¯s hand wrapped around Harvey¡¯s arm, her head resting on his broad shoulder. She felt sick to her stomach, how could Harvey do that to her? If only they hadn¡¯te back and had their second wedding.

    ¡®Okay, Becky, you have to stop! At least your second marriage brought Lily into the world, another voice retorted.

    ¡°Becky? All good?¡± Sean interrupted, noticing the odd expression on Reba¡¯s face.

    »Ø

    1320 Thu Autho

    ¡°Yeah, just me, myself, and 1.¡±

    Sean chuckled. ¡°Is there anything you want to buy before we get home?¡± he asked casually. Reba suddenly shivered, <b>as </b>the conversation really made their vibes feel like a married couple.

    ¡°In this wedding dress? No,¡± Reba replied half¨Cjokingly. After that, her mood improved a bit. She tried hard to dismiss all the bad thoughts <b>in </b>her head about Sean and decided to focus on their future.

    Once home, a tired Reba went straight to her bedroom. She took care of Lily and made sure she was well¨Cfed before heading to the bathroom to clean herself.

    While soaking, her thoughts returned to Harvey. His handsome, charismatic face, his ideal body, the perfect contour of his jawline, and his warm smile, all of which she couldn¡¯t find in any other man.

    Call her crazy, but she missed the touch of the jerk who had dumped her. She took a deep breath, trying hard not to touch herself while imagining Harvey because, for her. it would be a betrayal of herself.

    She initially wanted to go straight to sleep but felt too restless, so she decided to go to the bar and pour herself a ss of wine to calm her mind.

    Not long after, Sean came out wearing only a towel around his waist, causing Reba to instinctively look away.

    Sean was startled. ¡°Sorry, I thought you were asleep!¡± he eximed, panicking and hiding behind a chair, though it didn¡¯t rally hide his broad, bare chest. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Sorry, I can¡¯t sleep, so-¡± Reba showed her wine ss to Sean but kept her face. turned away, trying hard not to look at her husband¡¯s broad chest.

    Sean cleared his throat, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll just-¡± he pointed towards his room and quickly walked back there.

    Reba sighed deeply. She couldn¡¯t imagine the days ahead if they continued to get involved in such awkward situations.

    Not long after, she heard footsteps approaching, and Sean reappeared, fully dressed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said again. ¡°Won¡¯t happen again,¡± he added, trying to reassure Reba.

    Reba chuckled,

    PO

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    ¡°Weird, isn¡¯t it?¡± she murmured, suddenly remembering the early days of her marriag to Harvey. She could still clearly recall how cold Harvey was and how their first year of marriage was hell. Although the following two years weren¡¯t great, at least Harvey saw her as a woman, even if not the woman he loved.

    ¡°Becky? Are you listening to me?¡± Sean asked louder.

    Reba snapped out of it, ¡°Sorry, what did you say? I¡¯m a bit sleepy,¡± she replied, of course not admitting that she was busy thinking about Harvey. After all, she had to consider Sean¡¯s feelings even though he might not be jealous, they were still husband

    and wife.

    Sean cleared his throat softly,

    ¡°I think we need to go on a honeymoon,¡± he repeated what Reba hadn¡¯t heard earlier.

    ¡°What? Honeymoon? You and me?¡± Reba stared in shock. She reflexively tightened the cor of her pajamas, as if she felt vited just by those words.

    Thu, Aug 15 MW

 BIT 86

    Seanughed softly at Reba¡¯s reaction. ¡°Yes, you and me. Isn¡¯t that what newlyweds do?¡± he teased, a yful glint in his eyes.

    Reba shook her head, still in disbelief. ¡°But why? I mean, we¡¯re not exactly a normal couple. We¡¯re-¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re a married couple now, Becky,¡± Sean interrupted gently. ¡°And we need to start acting like one. A honeymoon could be a good way to get used to each other. Besides, it might be nice to get away from all the craziness for a while.¡±

    Reba sighed, looking down at her wine ss. ¡°I guess you¡¯re right. But where would we even go?¡±

    Sean¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to go to Italy. How about we spend <b>a </b>few weeks. exploring Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast?¡±

    Reba¡¯s heart fluttered at the thought. Italy had always been on her bucket list, but she had never imagined going there with Sean. ¡°Italy sounds wonderful,¡± she admitted. ¡°But what about Lily?¡±

    Sean smiled. ¡°We¡¯ll bring her with us, of course. It¡¯ll be a family honeymoon.¡±

    Reba chuckled, shaking her head. ¡°A family honeymoon. That sounds¡­ unique.¡±

    Sean grinned. ¡°We are a unique family, Becky. But <b>we¡¯ll </b>make it work. I promise it will be a fun trip. Lily is strong enough, and her father is a pediatrician, so there¡¯s nothing to worry about.¡±

    Reba couldn¡¯t help but smile at his optimism. She felt a little bit guilty for thinking badly about Sean before. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s do it. Let¡¯s go to Italy.¡±

    ¡°Great!¡± Sean eximed, pping his hands together. ¡°I¡¯ll start nning everything tomorrow. You just rx and get some sleep.¡±

    Reba nodded, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders. ¡°Thank you, Sean. For everything.¡±

    Sean reached out and squeezed her hand gently. ¡°We¡¯re in this together, Becky. Always.¡±

    Reba watched as Sean retreated to his room, her mind swirling with thoughts of their uing trip. She finished her wine and decided to head to bed, feeling

    67%1

    case than she had in weeks. Maybe going away to Italy for a while could get rid of all the thoughts about Harvey that kept haunting her

    The new

    morning, Reba woke to the smell of fresh coffee and the sound of Lily cooing. She smiled, stretching as she got out of bed. She followed the sounds to the kitchen, where she found Sean feeding Lily in her bouncer.

    ¡°Good morning,¡± Sean greeted her, shing her a bright smile.

    ¡°Good morning,¡± Reba replied, pouring herself a cup of coffee. ¡°You¡¯re up carly,¡± she said, frowning at the digital clock on the table

    ¡°I wanted to get a head start on nning our trip,¡± Sean said, a hint of excitement in his voice. ¡°I¡¯ve already found a few ces for us to stay.¡±

    Reba raised an eyebrow, impressed. ¡°You don¡¯t waste any time, do you?¡±

    Sean shrugged. ¡°I figured the sooner we n, the sooner we can leave. We could all use <b>a </b>break.¡±

    Reba nodded, sipping her coffee. ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯m actually looking forward to this.¡±

    ¡°Me too,¡± Sean said, his eyes sparkling. ¡°It¡¯ll be good for us.¡±

    Reba looked at Lily, then frowned in confusion. ¡°Why is Lily suddenly here?¡± she asked, trying to remember if she had missed somethingst night.

    ¡°Oh yeah, I heard her crying for a long time, so I knocked on your door, but you didn¡¯t respond. Sorry, but I was panicked, so I went inside and took her out. I swear I didn¡¯t look at your bed or anything, answered Sean with a guilty face.

    Reba grimaced, her face red with embarrassment. ¡°Oh God, what kind of mother am I?¡± she muttered, then put down her coffee cup and walked over to Lily, who looked more and more like Harvey by the day.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t say that. We just had our wedding yesterday, you must be tired,¡± said Sean, patting her on the back twice.

    Reba sighed deeply, then bent over and kissed Lily¡¯s cheek gently. ¡°Um, have you already taken care of changing Lily¡¯sst name?¡± she asked, looking over at Sean, who was washing a milk bottle.

    ¡°Yeah, I contacted mywyer. He¡¯ll fast¨Ctrack it so we¡¯ll be traveling with the samest

    0

    13EU IN Aud 15 FIL NU

    name on our passports,¡± Scan replied proudly

    3+ 67%

    Reba smiled faintly. She still couldn¡¯t believe that Lily would forever be a stranger to Harvey. She lifted her daughter from the bouncer and showered her with kisses on her sweet¨Csmelling skin.

    Casually, she picked up the remote and turned on the TV, but the gossip news that appeared drastically changed her mood.

    The public is starting to wonder if Becky Blushoff¡¯s daughter is actually Harvey Specter¡¯s child due to Harvey¡¯s indifferent and cold reaction. Meanwhile, confirmed at her Long Ind residence, Harvey¡¯s mother, Victoria Specter, stated that Harvey cannot have children, so the baby is likely the daughter of Nichs Bet, Becky¡¯s partner before she remarried Harvey. A source says they secretly met in prison and rented a private room-

    ¡°Bullshit!¡± Reba struggled not to shout because Lily was on herp. She felt her whole body tremble with anger.

    Sean sighed deeply, approaching Reba and rubbing her back. ¡°Don¡¯t get riled up. This must be Victoria¡¯s doing. She just wants to ensure Lily never ims to be Harvey¡¯s heir, so she¡¯s concocting this ridiculous story, he said carefully.

    ¡°But, damn it! Can¡¯t she stop linking me to Nichs? We never even had a sexual rtionship! This is defamation! I can¡¯t just stay quiet, right? Digital footprints can¡¯t be erased! What if Lily finds this kind of news someday? What will she think about her mother?¡± Reba ranted, her breathing in angry gasps. N?velDrama.Org ? content.

    Sean took a deep breath. ¡°Becky, listen!he said firmly, causing Reba to look up at him in surprise. ¡°Have you forgotten why we¡¯re doing all this? Our fake rtionship? For whom? For Lily¡¯s safety. Trust me, there wille a time when we can exin to her what really happened. Just breathe, okay? Close your eyes and think slowly,¡± Sean said gently, as he took Lily from Reba¡¯s arms.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never wanted to p Harvey more than I do right now, and I can¡¯t hold it back anymore.¡±

 BIT 87

    Reba¡¯s anger simmered just below the surface as she stared at the TV. She wanted tosh out, but she knew Sean was right. She needed to stay calm for Lily¡¯s sake.

    ¡°Becky, I know it¡¯s hard, but we need to focus on what¡¯s important,¡± Sean said softly, his eyes full of concern.

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. ¡°You¡¯re right, Sean. I just¡­ it¡¯s so frustrating. They keep dragging my name through the mud.¡±

    ¡°I know. But we¡¯ll get through this together. Remember, it¡¯s all about Lily¡¯s safety,¡± Sean

    reassured her.

    Reba nodded, her gaze drifting back to Lily, who was now happily cooing in Sean¡¯s arms. ¡°I just hate that she¡¯s caught up in all of this.¡±

    Sean kissed Lily¡¯s forehead. ¡°She¡¯s a strong little girl. Just like her mom.¡±

    Reba smiled weakly. ¡°Thanks, Sean.¡±

    Sean handed Lily back to Reba. ¡°Why don¡¯t you take Lily for a walk in the park? It¡¯ll help clear your head.¡±

    Reba hesitated, then nodded. ¡°That sounds like a good idea.¡±

    Sean smiled. ¡°Great. I¡¯ll pack a small bag for Lily, and you can get ready.¡±

    Reba took Lily to her room and started getting her dressed. As she buttoned up Lily¡¯s little dress, she couldn¡¯t help but think about the gossip and how it would affect her daughter in the future. She vowed to do everything she could to protect Lily from the harshness of the world.

    A few minutester, Sean appeared at the doorway with a small bag. ¡°Here you go. packed some snacks and her favorite toys.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Sean,¡± Reba said, taking the bag.

    I

    ¡°Take your time. I¡¯ll be here when you get back,¡± Sean said, giving her an encouraging smile.

    Reba left the apartment and headed to the nearby park. The fresh air and the sight of children ying helped ease her mind a little. She found a quiet spot under a tree

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    and sat down with Lily on herp.

    Lily looked up at her with wide, innocent eyes, and Reba felt a surge of love and guilt. ¡°We¡¯re going to be okay, Lily, I promise she whispered.

    As she sat there, lost in her thoughts, her phone buzzed. It was a text from Sean.

    Sean: ¡°How are you holding up?¡±

    Reba smiled and quickly typed back.

    Reba: ¡°We¡¯re good. The park is nice. Thank you for suggesting it.¡±

    Sean: ¡°Anytime. Just wanted to check in. Take your time.¡±

    Reba put her phone away and focused on Lily, who was now ying with her hair. She felt a sense of peace wash over her, at least they had each other.

    After a while, she decided it was time to head back. As she made her way to the apartment, she felt so much better. She wasn¡¯t going to let Victoria or anyone else dictate her life.

    When she walked through the door, Sean was in the kitchen, making lunch. He looked up and smiled. ¡°How was the park?¡±

    ¡°It was good. Thank you,¡± Reba said, setting the bag down and cing Lily in her ypen.

    ¡°Lunch will be ready soon. Why don¡¯t you rx for a bit?¡± Sean suggested.

    Reba nodded and sat down on the couch, feeling more at case. She watched as Sean moved around the kitchen, his movements quick and efficient. He always knew how to make her feel better, and she was grateful for his support even though she was sure they would never be more than that.

    As they sat down to cat, Reba¡¯s phone buzzed again. She nced at it and saw another message; it was from Cassic.

    ¡°Becky, I¡¯ve seen thetest news. Do you want to take any legal action?¡±

    Reba sighed, showing the message to Scan. ¡°What do you think?¡±

    Sean frowned. ¡°I think we need to be careful. Legal action might escte things. Maybe

    »Ø

    Chapter <b>87 </b>

    we should wait and see how this develops.¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. I just hate feeling so helpless.¡±

    Sean reached across the table and squeezed her hand. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this, Becky. One step at a time. When Lily grows up you¡¯ll be grateful for taking this path, I promise.¡±

    Reba smiled, feeling a bit more reassured. ¡°Thank you, Sean.¡±

    Sean nodded, his eyes warm. ¡°Always.¡±

    After lunch, they decided to spend the afternoon nning their trip to Italy. They spread out maps and travel brochures on the living room floor, discussing potential itineraries and must¨Csee ces.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe we¡¯re really doing this,¡± Reba said, a hint of excitement in her voice. ¡°Me neither,¡± Scan replied, grinning. ¡°It¡¯s going to be amazing.¡±

    As they nned, Lily was in the bouncer between them, asionally babbling and crying. Reba watched her, feeling a sense of contentment she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time.

    They spent hours nning,ughing, and dreaming about their trip. By the time they were done, they had a solid n and a list of ces they wanted to visit.

    ¡°Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast. It¡¯s going to be incredible,¡± Sean said, looking at their finalized itinerary.

    Reba nodded, feeling a sense of excitement bubbling up. ¡°I can¡¯t wait.¡±

    As the evening approached, they decided to order takeout for dinner. They settled on the couch, eating and watching a movie, enjoying the rare moment of peace.

    Reba sat beside Sean and looked at him deeply. ¡°Sean, thank you for today. I really needed it, and I should¡¯ve known from the start that this fake marriage is the answer to my problem and yours,¡± she said softly.

    Sean smiled, patting his hand on her shoulder. ¡°Anytime, Becky. I¡¯m here for you and Lily. Always<b>.</b>¡±

    Reba smiled. She would focus on their family holiday ande back stronger. She

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    would ignore all the bad voices out there and focus only on people who cared about her.

    As the movie ended and they put Lily to bed, Reba felt tired and sleepy. She looked at Sean, who was tucking Lily in, and knew that they were building a life together as a family.

    Later, as they got ready for bed, Reba turned to Sean. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking¡­ maybe. we should go public with our trip. Show everyone that we¡¯re a strong family. I¡¯ll post it on my social media and let my millions of followers see how happy we are.¡±

    Sean considered it for a moment, then nodded. ¡°That could be a good idea. It might help deflect some of the negativity.¡±

    Reba smiled. ¡°Then it¡¯s settled. We¡¯ll announce once we get there.¡±

    Sean grinned. ¡°Sounds like a n.¡±

    ¡°Well, good night then,¡± said Reba, signaling Sean to leave her bedroom. N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

    Sean nodded, ¡°Good night, fake wifey,¡± he said, half¨Cjoking. Reba couldn¡¯t hold herughter. She pressed her palm to her mouth, afraid to make a sound and wake her baby up.

    She looked at Sean¡¯s back away from her and suddenly felt that their rtionship seemed to have hope, although not soon. She slept soundly that night and ridiculously dreamed of Harvey appearing in her bedroom without <b>a </b>single thread covering his body¡­

 BIT 88

    <b>Chapter </b>88

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Reba whispered, pulling the covers up, afraid Harvey

    do something to her.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you see it in my face without me having to speak, Becky? How I miss you, miss. everything about us, our babies<b>, </b>ourughter, and-¡± Harvey¡¯s voice was choked. He pulled Reba¡¯s nket until she waspletely uncovered. ¡°Your body, I miss your skin on mine¡­<b>¡± </b>

    Reba was breathing hard. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare put your hands on me! You traitor! You left me without a message or even a goodbye! You call yourself a husband? You call yourself a father<b>?</b>¡±

    Harvey sobbed, ¡°I promise there¡¯s a reason behind it all, but I can¡¯t exin it now,¡± he said, then his hand rose to caress Reba¡¯s cheek, down to her neck and her belly.

    Reba held her breath; she could feel Harvey¡¯s hands on the most sensitive parts of her body. She moaned loudly, how much she missed all those touches. ¡°Get inside me, Harvey. I¡¯ve missed you so badly!¡±

    She pulled Harvey so that he was bent over her, and then they made love wildly to vent their longing. When she almost reached her peak, Lily cried out loud. She opened her eyes with a gasp, looked around her, and only then realized that it was all just a dream.

    Half confused, she stood up and dragged her feet toward Lily¡¯s crib, then lifted her into her arms<b>. </b>

    ¡°Hey baby, I just met your dad,¡± she whispered, still not believing that it was all just a dream.

    She put Lily back in the crib, made milk quickly, thenpped her and fed her.

    She looked all over the room as if Harvey might be hiding in any corner. ¡°Why does everything feel so real? Does he miss me too? Why does he alwayse back when I decide to throw all his memories in the trash? Why?¡±

    After Lily finished feeding from her bottle, she stood her up and patted her back gently until she burped loudly. ¡°Good job, Lils, now let¡¯s go back to sleep,¡± said Reba as she moved Lily back into her crib.

    She returned to bed, sitting cross¨Clegged restlessly. She couldn¡¯t lie, she really missed

    C

    +67%8

    Chapter

    Harvey¡¯s touch more than anything.

    ¡°Pleasee back, she whispered, hoping Harvey woulde back into her sleep. She closed her eyes tightly, trying hard to go back to sleep<b>, </b>and when she did, Harvey never came again.

    Reba woke up the next morning feeling disappointed, but she didn¡¯t know who she should me the situation on because what happened to her was really just a dream.

    After taking care of Lily, <b>as </b>usual, she picked her up and took her to the living room.

    ¡°Scan?¡±

    No answer. She frowned, confused because usually Sean would already be there. Either drinking coffee or making breakfast. ¡°Sean? Are you in there?¡± she shouted, knocking on Sean¡¯s door several times and hearing no answer.

    When Reba was about to open the door handle to Sean¡¯s room, suddenly a voice came from behind her.

    ¡°Becky? What are you doing?¡±

    She turned and found Scan standing with a surprised face<b>, </b>maybe he thought Reba woulde into his room without permission.

    ¡°Sorry, I looked for you everywhere but you didn¡¯t answer, so I was afraid something had happened to you, Reba said honestly.

    Sean grimaced. ¡°Sorry, I just came back from the hotel where mywyer was staying. All done,¡± he said while showing arge white envelope in his hand.

    ¡°What is that?¡± Reba asked, walking closer to Sean.

    ¡°Sit down,¡± said Sean, inviting Reba to sit on the sofa while he was busy opening the envelope.

    ¡°Congrattions, Lily, you¡¯ve got your new name!¡± Sean eximed with a happy face.

    Reba felt a strange wave in her chest as if something had been taken away from her. Without the name ¡®Specter behind Lily¡¯s name, that meant things were really over between her and Harvey.

    But she smiled, appreciating Sean¡¯s efforts. ¡°Great! Is that a passport?¡± she asked in

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    surprise.

    Sean nodded. ¡°Mywyer helped me take care of everything, so we can fly to Italy tonight!¡± he eximed excitedly.

    Reba smiled broadly. The idea that they would be on vacation far away from there made her have hope in their fake marriage.

    And finally, everything went smoothly. After chaos after chaos, Reba was grateful that night she was on a first¨Css flight with Lily and Sean to Italy.

    ¡°Try this, it¡¯s good,¡± said Sean as he held out a small te containing three mini cakes that he took from the bar.

    ¡°Thanks, anyway, you¡¯re right, this honeymoon idea isn¡¯t bad at all, even your mother is crying happily, I feel guilty for giving her false hope,¡± Reba muttered as she stuffed the cake with orange topping into her mouth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t feel guilty, besides, even if this marriage is real, that doesn¡¯t mean we can¡¯t possibly get a divorce someday, right? So just rx and enjoy every second of it. Just pretend you¡¯re on holiday with a friend,¡± said Sean casually.

    As time went on, their conversation became more enjoyable after they left the topic of the bitterness of their lives behind.

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s get some rest! We¡¯ll eat a lot in Italyter!¡± said Sean cheerfully.

    ¡°Okay, good night!¡± said Reba as she pressed the button to close her seat, but suddenly she heard a very familiar voice a voice that always made her flutter every time she heard it.

    ¡°Stop talking, I¡¯m going to sleep!¡± snapped the familiar voice.

    She tried to peek forward, but couldn¡¯t see anything.

    ¡°Harvey! You¡¯re so annoying! I still wanna chat with you! It¡¯s a honeymoon, okay? Don¡¯t-

    test me!¡±

    Reba¡¯s stomach felt like it was doing somersaults. It turned out to be true, Harvey was there with Alicia, on the same ne as them. What should she do?

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 BIT 89

    Reba¡¯s mind raced. She couldn¡¯t believe her ears. Harvey was on the same ne, on a honeymoon with Alicia! Her pulse quickened, and she felt a mix of emotions: shock. confusion, anger, jealousy, and a lingering sadness. She had topose herself for Lily and Sean.

    ¡°Becky, are you okay?¡± Sean asked, noticing her pale face and tense posture.

    Reba forced a smile and nodded. ¡°Yeah, just tired, I guess. Long day.¡±

    Sean seemed unconvinced but didn¡¯t push the matter. ¡°Alright, try to get some rest. We have a big adventure ahead of us.¡±

    Reba reclined her seat and closed her eyes, but sleep wouldn¡¯te. She couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Harvey and Alicia. How could everything be so coincidental? Are they also heading to the same ce as her?

    The more she thought about it, the more her heart ached. She knew she couldn¡¯t waste that opportunity. They were at a high altitude, and Harvey would no longer be able to escape. She must get answers to all the questions that haunt her mind. She had to face him, and confront her feelings, but how? This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Hours passed, and the ne began its descent into Italy. Reba had barely slept. She nced at Sean, who was sound asleep, and then at Lily, who was peacefully dozing in her bass. She decided to take a walk to clear her head.

    Carefully unbuckling herself, she made her way to the back of the ne, hoping to avoid any confrontation with Harvey. She needed a moment alone to process<b>. </b>everything.

    As she reached the galley, she heard soft murmurs. Peeking around the corner, she saw Harvey and Alicia engrossed in conversation. Alicia¡¯sughter rang out, and it pierced Reba¡¯s heart like a dagger. She quickly ducked back, hoping they hadn¡¯t seen her.

    Just as she was about to retreat to her seat, Harvey¡¯s voice called out in a whisper, ¡°Becky?¡± He <b>got </b>up to his feet and walked over to her, leaving Alicia, who was busy with her phone.

    She froze, her heart pounding. Slowly, she turned around to face him. ¡°Harvey,¡± she acknowledged her voice barely above a whisper.

    121 Thu Aud UEH D?

    Harvey¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, then softened with a mix of emotions. ¡°What are your doing here?¡±

    Reba felt a surge of anger. ¡°I could ask you the same thing. On a honeymoon, huh? It¡¯s funny, isn¡¯t it? We married together and are now on the same ne. Is there something wrong with all this, or is this really a curse for me?¡± She couldn¡¯t keep the bitterness out of her voice.

    ¡°Becky¡­¡± Harvey let out a long sigh, wiping his face with his hand. ¡°I know you have many questions in your head, and I can¡¯t give you all the answers, but I wanted to assure you that it¡¯s not what you think,¡± Harvey began, but she cut him off.

    ¡°Not what I think? You¡¯re on a honeymoon, Harvey! As if you¡¯re enjoying your marriage with that bitch who is always trying to destroy my life! After everything we went through, don¡¯t ask me why we¡¯re on this ne too. We¡¯re just trying to escape from your family¡¯s terror!¡± Her voice was shaking.

    Harvey looked down, his expression hurt. ¡°I didn¡¯t have a choice, Becky. There are things you don¡¯t understand.¡±

    Becky felt tears welling up. ¡°Exin it to me, then. Make me understand why you abandoned us and why you left me and Lily without a word. Don¡¯t you know how messed up our lives are? I¡¯ve lost everything¨Cyou, my friends, my freedom! I only have Lily, and I married Sean because I believe Lily would need a dad!¡±

    Harvey stepped closer, his voice low and urgent. ¡°I can¡¯t exin everything right now. But believe me, it wasn¡¯t my choice. I had to protect not only you and Lily but also someone else¡­¡±

    ¡°Someone else who? Protect us from what, Harvey? No one listens to us right now, just be honest!¡± She demanded, her frustration boiling over.

    ¡°It¡¯splicated, Becky, I can¡¯t exin it to you right now. I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, his voice breaking.

    Reba¡¯s anger faltered. She could see the pain in his eyes, but it didn¡¯t erase the hurt he had caused. ¡°You should have trusted me. We could have faced it together.¡±

    Harvey reached out, but Reba stepped back. ¡°I wanted to, but I couldn¡¯t risk your safety. It was the hardest thing I¡¯ve ever done, but it was the only way to keep you safe.¡±

    Reba shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°You don¡¯t get to decide what¡¯s

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    best for me or Lily. You left us, Harvey. And now you¡¯re here with Alicia<b>, </b>pretending like none of it matters.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s shoulders slumped. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Becky. I never wanted to hurt you. I thought I was doing the right thing.¡±

    Reba wiped her tears angrily. ¡°You should have fought for us, for our family. Instead, you ran.¡±

    There was a long silence between them, filled with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. Finally, Reba took a deep breath. ¡°I can¡¯t do this right now. I need to get back to my seat.¡±

    Harvey nodded, his expression defeated. ¡°I understand. But please know, I never stopped loving you or Lily.¡±

    Reba turned away, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. As she walked back to her seat, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she would ever truly understand why Harvey had made the choices he did..

    Back at her seat, Sean was awake, holding Lily and looking concerned. ¡°Everything okay?¡±

    Reba nodded, forcing a smile. ¡°Yeah, I just needed a moment.¡±

    Sean studied her face<b>, </b>sensing there was more to the story, but he didn¡¯t press. ¡°Alright. We¡¯re almost there. Let¡¯s focus on making this trip meaningful for us.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, grateful for Sean¡¯s support. She had to put her past with Harvey behind her, at least for now, and focus on the present. Italy was a fresh start, a chance to build new memories with Sean and Lily.

    She hoped Harvey and Alicia weren¡¯t heading to the same ce as her. She looked at Sean who was giving Lily milk and her head was filled with all of Harvey¡¯s confessions earlier. After avoiding it many times Harvey finally said that he had every reason for his actions. Should she believe the words of a man who has betrayed her twice?

 BIT 90

    The nended smoothly at the airport. Reba deliberately took her time, discreetly observing Harvey and Alicia from a distance. She didn¡¯t know why, but she chose to keep her meeting with Harvey a secret from Sean. She felt it was for the best.

    ¡°Ready?¡± Sean asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Reba stood up, unfolded the stroller, and moved Lily from the bass into it while Sean was busy handling the luggage. They looked exactly like a perfect married couple. No one would have guessed that they were in a fake yet legal rtionship

    With every step, Reba¡¯s eyes warily scanned the surroundings, avoiding another encounter with Harvey or Alicia that could ruin everything once more.

    ¡°We¡¯re staying at a hotel nearby for one night and then heading to the Amalfi Coast tomorrow. Okay? I don¡¯t want Lily to be too tired,¡± Sean looked back at Reba, who was still scanning the area like a paranoid person.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Sean called, his brow furrowed.

    Reba turned, startled. ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°What are you doing? Is there something you want to tell me? I¡¯ve been watching you, and you seem confused. Is there something I don¡¯t know?¡± Sean asked, his face curious..

    Reba swallowed hard and shook her head. ¡°Nothing, maybe I¡¯m just paranoid. Um, you know, I felt like someone was following us but I think it was just me,¡± she replied, masking her anxiety with a wide smile.

    Sean nodded, ¡°Really? Just take it easy, no one is following us,¡± he said, not pressing further. They were picked up by a luxury rental car and driven to the hotel near the airport.

    Minutester,

    Reba frowned as she saw Sean return from the reception with only one key card in his hand. ¡°Um, one room<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>she asked cautiously, staring at the card in horror.

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Sean replied nonchntly.

    Reba swallowed again, thinking of the right words to express her difort. But suddenly, Seanughed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Becky! It¡¯s a suite room. There are two rooms for

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    us Rx, wifey¨CI mean, fakey wifey,¡± he teased, making Rebaugh, and her anxiety dissipated in an instant.

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    They entered the room and ordered food to be delivered. After freshening up changing clothes, they sat in the living room, listening to Pavarotti¡¯s music ying on the record yer.

    Reba quietly watched Sean cradling Lily and considered telling him about her encounter with Harvey. But they might not meet again, <b>so </b>what was the point of admitting it? She decided to keep it to herself.

    ting up

    The doorbell rang loudly. Reba looked up. ¡°Let me take it!¡± she called, getting and half¨Crunning to the door.

    She opened it, and <i>the </i>aroma of pesto sauce hit her nose. She opened the door wide, allowing room service to enter, then her eyes inadvertently turned towards the door <b>not </b>far from <b>her </b>room and saw a familiar back¨Ctoo familiar for her.

    Her body tensed instantly. She hoped her vision was wrong because how could they always be in the same ce? She held her breath as the man turned around, her heart sinking instantly.

    She was about to pull herself back inside when the man looked back at her, his face <b>as </b>surprised as hers.

    ¡°Becky¡±

    Reba shook her head repeatedly. ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± she whispered, then went back inside with a tense face.

    ¡°Hmm, smells good!¡± she eximed to prevent Sean from noticing her change in expression.

    After tipping the room service who brought the food, she hurriedly devoured her favorite spaghetti al pesto too quickly, making Sean look at her in surprise.

    ¡°Becky, eat slowly. No one will take that food from you,¡± he said, fearing she might choke.

    Reba cleared her throat. ¡°Sorry, this spaghetti is just too good,¡± she said, avoiding Sean¡¯s gaze.

    That night after dinner, they retreated to their rooms early. Reba sat by the crib,

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    gazing at Lily¡¯s adorable face. If only Lily were older, she would pour out all her feelings about her father, about Harvey,

    Then suddenly, the inte on the nightstand rang loudly. She jumped, staring at it with a furrowed brow. She picked up the inte receiver, annoyed it might wake Lily.

    ¡°Yes?¡± she snapped in a half¨Cwhisper.

    ¡°Becky, it¡¯s me¡­¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock, gripping the receiver tightly. That voice¨Cthe one she missed the most.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± Reba hissed, suddenly trembling.

    ¡°Let¡¯s meet. I¡¯m waiting for you in room 333. I know you¡¯lle. Please bring Lily; I really want to see her,¡± Harvey said before ending the call.

    Reba covered her face with her hands, biting her lip indecisively. Should she meet Harvey and swallow her pride? But then she might find answers to all the questions lingering in her mind.

    She stepped out of her room and was surprised to find Sean still awake.

    ¡°I thought you were asleep,¡± Reba muttered nervously, scratching the back of her neck, suddenly covered in cold sweat.

    Sean gave a small smile. ¡°I was nning pur trip to the Amalfi Coast for tomorrow to ensure Lily isfortable. What about you? Didn¡¯t you say you were sleepy?¡± he responded, looking up from his phone.

    ¡°Yeah, um, I heard some noises, so <b>I </b>came out. Good night then,¡± Reba said, turning back to her room.

    ¡°I heard the phone ring earlier. Why would room service bother you sote? If they wake up Lily, I¡¯ll demand an exnation!¡± Sean grumbled, making Reba swallow nervously.

    ¡°Yeah, they were just asking if I wanted a wake¨Cup call,¡± Reba lied without turning around, not wanting Sean to see her face.

    She closed her room door and sat by the nightstand, staring at the inte anxiously.

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    Weighing whether or not to call Harvey back,

    66

    ×Ô

    In that moment of indecision, she realized how much her past was influencing her present, and she needed to resolve it to m

 BIT 91

    Chapter <b>91 </b>

    Reba jumped at the sound of the inte ringing once more. Her heart pounded as she reached for the receiver, her hand trembling.

    ¡°Yes?¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    ¡°Becky, it¡¯s me again. Please, I need to see you. Just for a few minutes,¡± Harvey¡¯s voice was pleading, full of desperation.

    Reba hesitated, her mind racing. She knew she had to confront her past, but the fear of reopening old wounds held her back. She nced at Lily, peacefully sleeping, and made a decision.

    ¡°I¡¯lle, but only for a few minutes. And I¡¯m not bringing Lily with me,¡± she said firmly.

    ¡°Thank you. Room 333,¡± Harvey replied, relief evident in his tone.

    Reba hung up and took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. She quietly slipped out of her room and was lucky because Sean was not there. She opened the door and quietly walked down the hallway, her footsteps echoing in the silent corridor. Reaching room 333, she paused, her hand hovering over the door. She gathered her courage and knocked softly.

    The door opened almost immediately, and Harvey stood there, looking tired and worn. His eyes lit up with a mix of hope and sadness when he saw her.

    ¡°Becky, thank you foring,¡± he said, stepping aside to let her in.

    Reba entered the room, her eyes scanning the surroundings. The room was dimly lit, and the atmosphere was heavy with unspoken words.

    ¡°What do you want, Harvey?¡± she asked, crossing her arms defensively.

    Harvey took a deep breath, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I know I¡¯ve hurt you, Becky. And I know I don¡¯t deserve your forgiveness<b>. </b>But I need you to understand why I did what I did.¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Why? Why did you abandon us? Why did you leave me and Lily without a word?¡±

    Harvey looked pained. ¡°I was trying to protect you. My family was threatening to ruin

    Chipkes 91 T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    your life. They were going to take Lily away from us. I had to make a deal with them to keep you safe¡±

    Reba¡¯s anger red. ¡°And you thought leaving us was the best way to protect us? You broke my heart, Harvey. You broke Lily¡¯s heart.¡±

    ¡°I know,¡± Harvey said quietly, his eyes filled with regret. ¡°And I hate myself for it every day. But I couldn¡¯t see any other way out.

    Reba shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°You should have trusted me. We could have faced it together.¡±

    Harvey stepped closer, his voice pleading. ¡°I wanted to, but I couldn¡¯t risk your safety. I couldn¡¯t let them hurt you or take Lily. Please, Becky, believe me. I never stopped loving you or our daughter.¡±

    Reba wiped her tears angrily. ¡°It¡¯s toote, Harvey. You made your choice, and now I have to make mine. I¡¯m with Sean now. He¡¯s been there for me and Lily when you

    weren¡¯t.¡±

    Harvey¡¯s shoulders slumped in defeat. ¡°I understand. And I¡¯m d you have someone like Sean. You deserve to be happy.¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. ¡°I need to go. I can¡¯t do this

    anymore.

    Harvey nodded, his eyes filled with sorrow. ¡°I understand. Just know that I¡¯m here if you ever need me and one more thing.¡± He paused.

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    Reba looked at him with her chest heaving ups and downs.

    ¡°It¡¯s not only about us, there¡¯s something bigger. I need to protect my mother¡¯s life¡­.

    Reba frowned, ¡°Victoria?¡±

    Harvey shook her head. ¡°I lied to you when I told her she is my biological mother¡­¡±

    Before he finished his words the baby monitor in Reba¡¯s hand surprised them with Lily¡¯s cry.

    ¡°You owe me the exnation Harvey, you owe us!¡±

    Reba turned and walked out of the room, her heart heavy with unresolved

    2/ x

 BIT 92

    Chapter92

    emotions. She made her way back to her room, feeling a mix of relief and sadness<b>. </b>She knew confronting Harvey was the right thing to do, but it didn¡¯t make it any easier.

    Back in her room, she found Sean still awake, sitting on the bed with Lily in his arms. He looked up as she entered, concern etched on his face.

    ¡°Are you okay? Where have you been?¡± he asked softly.

    Reba nodded, forcing a smile. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m okay. Just needed some air.¡±

    <b>Sean </b>studied her for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Alright. Get some rest. We have a long day tomorrow.¡±

    Reba climbed into bed, her mind racing. She knew she needed to focus on the future, on her new family, and on the new life they were building together. But she couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of her past.

    ¡°What

    happened to Harvey¡¯s mother? Does Victoria have her? He could just tell the police about everything instead of making it difficult for us?¡±

    As shey there, listening to the soft sounds of Lily¡¯s breathing, she made a silent promise to herself. She would do whatever it took to protect her daughter and ensure their happiness, no matter what challengesy ahead. She knew Harvey had his own problems, but when he decided to leave them, it meant he had put her as an outsider.

    The next morning, Reba woke early, determined to put the previous night behind her. She got up quietly, not wanting to wake Lily, and went to the bathroom to freshen up. As she looked at herself in the mirror, she felt a renewed sense of determination. She was stronger than she realized, and he had a beautiful daughter and a supportive partner who loved her daughter as his own.

    She stepped out of the bathroom and found Sean awake, gently rocking Lily in his arms. He looked up and smiled at her.

    ¡°Good morning. Sorry, she cried out loud, so I barked in,¡± he said casually.

    ¡°Good morning, no, thank you,¡± Reba replied, returning his smile.

    ¡°Are you ready for our adventure today?¡± Sean asked, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m ready.¡±

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    arma.

    Whatever Harvey reasons were, it meant they were not meant to be together. and he would slowly try to meet that fate

    As they reached their destination, the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast stretched out before them. Reba felt a surge of happiness as she looked at Sean and Lily. For the first time, she could see them as a whole happy young family. This was their new beginning, a chance to create beautiful memories together. Even without ¡®romantic rtionships, it was still fine.

    They spent the day exploring the picturesque towns, enjoying the stunning scenery. and savoring the delicious Italian cuisine. Sean and Reba took turns carrying Lily. who cried and shouted at every time. They visited charming shops, walked along the beach, and even took a boat ride along the coast.

    In the evening, they returned to their hotel, tired but happy. As they settled into their room, Reba felt a deep sense of contentment.

    ¡°Scan,¡± he called softly while they were sitting casually on the balcony, sipping their

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Sean turned to her, one eyebrow raised

    ¡°Um, how long do you think this kind of marriage wouldst?¡± asked Reba <b>randomly</b>.

    Sean chuckled, ¡°Depends, if you want to, we can make it forever,¡± he shrugged casually.

    Reba red in surprise, ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Well, we can fill <b>each </b>other with happiness, I think that¡¯s enough.¡±

    ¡°But-¡°Reba paused.

    ¡°But what?¡± demanded Sean.

    ¡°There¡¯s something that we can¡¯t do,¡± muttered Reba hesitantly.

    ¡°<b>And </b>what is that?¡± Sean frowned curiously.

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    Back in their hotel room, after Lily had fallen asleep, Reba found Sean on the balcony again, staring out at the sea. She joined him, wrapping a shawl around her shoulders to ward off the cool night air.

    ¡°Sean, can we talk?¡± she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Scan turned to her, his eyes soft and inviting. ¡°Of course, Becky. What¡¯s on your mind?¡±

    Reba took a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation ahead. ¡°I need to tell you something about Harvey.¡±

    Sean¡¯s¨Cexpression shifted slightly, curiosity mingling with concern. ¡°Go on.¡±

    She recounted her encounters with Harvey, his desperate plea for a meeting, and his crypticments about his mother¡¯s safety and his true parentage. Sean listened intently, his face growing more serious with each passing detail.

    ¡°And then there¡¯s Victoria,¡± Reba continued. ¡°He said something about her not being his biological mother. I don¡¯t know what to make of it, Sean. It¡¯s all so confusing<b>.¡± </b>

    Sean nodded, processing the information. ¡°Do you believe him?¡±

    Reba sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Harvey has always been secretive, but he sounded. genuinely scared. If there¡¯s a threat to his mother¡¯s life, and he¡¯s been dealing with this on his own¡­ I can¡¯t just ignore it. I mean he¡¯s Lily¡¯s father.¡±

    Sean ced aforting hand on her shoulder. ¡°Becky, whatever happens, we¡¯ll face it together. We need to get more information, and understand the whole picture. But for now, let¡¯s focus on <b>us </b><b>and </b>Lily.¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°Thank you, Sean. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡± She felt bad for involving Sean in every problem she had to face.

    ¡°You¡¯ll never have to find out,¡± he said with a warm smile.

    The following morning, they left the Amalfi Coast with heavy hearts. The drive back was filled withughter and light¨Chearted conversation, but the weight of the previous night¡¯s conversations lingered in Reba¡¯s mind.

    Back in Manhattan, their routine resumed, but the air was thick with unspoken thoughts. Sean and Reba knew they needed to have the difficult conversations they had postponed during their trip.

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    The next evening, after putting Lily to bed, they sat in the living room, ready to face their uncertainties head¨Con.

    ¡°Becky, I¡¯ve been thinking about our arrangement, our rtionship,¡± Sean began, breaking the silence.

    Reba nodded, her heart pounding. ¡°Me top. Sean, I don¡¯t want to live in limbo. anymore. We need to figure out what we really mean to each other. Well, this rtionship is fine though but still, we have to set boundaries.¡±

    Sean took her hand, his grip firm and reassuring. ¡°Becky, when we started this, it was about providing a stable environment for Lily. But over time, my feelings have grown. I care about you, more than I ever expected to

    Reba red. ¡°Really? But it¡¯s still about Maggie and Bea, isn¡¯t it?¡± she asked carefully.

    Sean sighed.

    ¡°It will be forever about them in a good way, if only I drove faster at that time, Maggie and Bea would never be in that car crash. You knew I¡¯ve been punishing myself in thest three years, and right now my intention is only to protect you and Lily and make sure you both live happily.¡±

    Reba gulped, she knew their rtionship would never go anywhere. Not only because she couldn¡¯t get Harvey out of her mind, but because Sean would never fall in love with her. It would always be about histe wife, Maggie, and histe daughter, Bea.

    ¡°Yeah, um, well, sex is just sex. If we couldn¡¯t find a way out we could just do it casually, no feelings involved, that¡¯s cool though said Reba, trying hard not to show interest; she didn¡¯t want to look like <b>a </b>sex maniac.

    Sean chuckled. ¡°You make us sound like animals, but <b>I </b>agree. Then, why don¡¯t we start with being bare to each other? No secret since we¡¯re friends,¡± he said, looking at her intently. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba took a deep breath, feeling a sense of rity. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s be honest. I still have unresolved feelings about Harvey and what he said when we met in Italy. I need to know the truth, not just for me, but for Lily.¡±

    ¡°Only that feeling?¡± asked Scan.

    Reba cleared her throat and coughed nervously. ¡°Well, I think I still love him,¡± she said, feeling a sharp pain as she said that.

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    Sean nodded,

    ¦°

    ¡°But it¡¯s impossible, isn¡¯t it? You know you can¡¯t go back to him. I mean with the risks and everything.¡±

    Reba nodded, ¡°I know¡­¡±

    Scan took a deep breath. ¡°Then don¡¯t. Um, or maybe you want to try to make it real? I mean, us?¡±

    Reba looked into Sean¡¯s eyes, seeing the sincerity and hope in them. ¡°Really, Sean? Well, that¡¯s not a bad idea. I mean, I¡¯m willing to try. To see if we can be more than just partners in raising Lily, but if it fails, let¡¯s go back to being parents, just parents. No hurt feelings.¡±

    A smile spread across Sean¡¯s face. ¡°Then let¡¯s take it one step at a time. We¡¯ll deal with Harvey, and we¡¯ll explore what we have. No pressure, no rush. Just us, figuring things out together.¡±

    Reba felt a wave of relief and happiness wash over her. ¡°I like the sound of that. No pressure.¡±

    Suddenly, Reba¡¯s phone buzzed.

    ¡°Cassie?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve been dying for your post, Becky! I heard you¡¯re in Manhattan already. Is everything okay? Why do you never post any stories or feeds? I mean, let us know if you¡¯re okay!¡± cried Cassie on the other side.

    Reba felt guilty.

    ¡°Sorry, Cassie, I decided to take a break from social media for a bit. You know, I¡¯ve got many things in my head, and I wanted to clear them one by one,¡± she said earnestly.

    ¡°Well, if it¡¯s for your wellness, then I¡¯ll support you. Anyway, have you seen the news?<b>¡± </b>asked Cassie hesitantly.

    ¡°What news?¡± Reba frowned in curiosity.

    ¡°Alicia Fox just announced her pregnancy.¡±

    Reba felt like the world spun faster, and she suddenly threw up.

 BIT 93

    Reba clung to the bathroom sink, her stomach churning as the news of Alicia¡¯s pregnancy sank in. She had thought she was prepared for anything, but this news blindsided her. Sean rushed in, concern etched on his face.

    ¡°Becky, what¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked, gently rubbing her back.

    She rinsed her mouth and straightened up, taking a deep breath. ¡°Alicia, um, she¡¯s pregnant.¡±

    Sean¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What? How do you

    know?¡±

    ¡°Cassie just told me,¡± Reba replied, her voice trembling. ¡°She saw it on the news.¡± Sean looked stunned. ¡°What do you want to do about it?¡± he asked.

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± She shook her head. She felt ached as if someone just hit her on the chest. This is unfair to Lily, but I couldn¡¯t do anything about it. My daughter has every right to know his biological father. Why are they so cruel to us? I hate them to the bone¡­¡±

    Sean took a deep breath. ¡°Victoria, she must be the director behind all this. Didn¡¯t you once say that Harvey¡¯s grandfather¡¯s inheritance could only be passed down to Harvey and his descendants? So Victoria worked with Alicia to get it,¡± he babbled.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that stupid? Inviting a psychopath like Alicia into a coalition? I mean, in the end Alicia could just take everything out of Victoria¡¯s hands,¡± Reba muttered as she poured water and drank it until it was empty.

    Sean snorted, ¡°You¡¯re not pretending to be blind, are you, Becky? Alicia has an obsession with Harvey despite her coboration with Victoria, money is not her main goal at all. She always wanted to be Harvey¡¯s wife, at least that¡¯s what I think,¡± he said, shrugging his shoulders.

    Reba gulped, ¡°Still, it¡¯s not fair for Lily. She will feel sad when she knows that her father¡¯s family get rid of her just because she is my daughter. She will look into Alica¡¯s child with envy and it will break her mind.¡±

    ¡°Not if we shower her with affection,¡± said Sean casually.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, I hope.¡±

    Rawalpindi: Optical Emission Spectromet <b>Costs </b>

    Cheer

    You want me to contact Harvey? Sean asked casually.

    ¡°What for? Reba asked a little curtly, hearing Harvey¡¯s name made her very upset. He could imagine Harvey having sex with Alicia and getting the bitch pregnant, it was absolutely sickening

    Sean shrigged

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, to vent your anger? He¡¯s the right one who you should scream at. I mean, 1 know you. You would speak out it at least a week and I don¡¯t think I can handle it,¡± said Sean <b>half</b>¨Cjoking.

    Reba pursed her lips. She folded her hands across her chest, thinking. ¡°How did you feel when you <b>saw </b>me acting like this?¡± she asked, raising an eyebrow at Sean. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Do you want me to tell the truth?<b>¡± </b>asked Sean casually

    Reba nodded, ¡°Please!¡±

    ¡°This stupid girl would never stop, wouldn¡¯t she?¡± muttered Sean making Reba re in surprise because those words sounded true and hit her right in her heart.

    Reba covered her face. ¡°I don¡¯t know. What should I do?¡± she cried, hating herself for being helpless.

    Just call him and tell him how you feel and ask him whether he will choose you and Lily if you want to go back to him or not, if his answer is still no, then you have to stop being a stupid woman. Simple.¡±

    Reba gulped. ¡°You have his number, right? Call him!¡± she demanded as if Sean was his brother.

    Sean took out his phone and searched Harvey¡¯s name. ¡°Here, good luck!¡±

    Reba held Sean¡¯s cell phone and put it on speaker mode. Every ring made her heart beat as hard as if it almost fell out of ce..

    ¡°Sean Parker? Is this you? What¡¯s wrong? Are Becky and Lily okay?¡± Harvey¡¯s voice was filled with concern.

    ¡°This is me, we need to talk,¡± snapped Reba, her voice trembling.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Becky? Is there something wrong with Lily?¡±

    |

    Hawalpindi: Optical Envision Spectrometers That Cut Business Costs

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°Harvey, I just found out that Alicia is pregnant. Is that true¡±

    ¡°Pregnam Thor¡¯s improuble. Alicia and I. we never¡­¡±

    Haven¡¯t you seen the newed How do your exin that? Reberca demanded, her voice rising with frustration.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. But I swear, Becky. I haven¡¯t been with Alicia in that way. She¡¯s been using me to get to you. To hurt you and she made i

    ¡°If you end up having Alicia¡¯s child and making her everything then I will never forgive you for making my daughter feel abandoned

    ¡°Becky, you know I would never intend to make you feel like that. I will find out about Alicia¡¯s pregnancy announcement, but I will make sure I never sleep with her,¡± Harvey said firmly.

    ¡°Can¡¯t we just start from scratch, me, you and Lily.

    ¡°Becky, you called me on Sean¡¯s phone, I mean¡±

    ¡°Just answer me! Can¡¯t we <b>start </b>over now? <b>Leave </b>all this behind and start over, like we did before¡­¡±

    There was a long silence and at that moment Reba knew she would probably never get Harvey back.

    ¡°Becky, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to, but this is about my <b>mother</b>. I have to wait for the right time, but right <b>now </b>I can¡¯t say when that time wille¡­¡±

    ¡°Then <b>you </b>might lose the two women you love forever because someone who is more willing to sacrifice wille to take them in, Sean interjected casually but seeded in surprising Reba and Harvey.

    ¡°Becky, listen¡­¡±

    ¡°No, you don¡¯t want to believe me that we <b>can </b>handle it together, so there¡¯s nothing we need to talk about anymore. Congrattions on your wife¡¯s pregnancy, bye.¡±

    Reba ended the call with shaking hands and a heart breaking into a million pieces. ¡°There he goes again,¡± he muttered as he returned Sean¡¯s cell phone to him.

    Rawalpindi. Optical Expion Spectrosters That <b>Cut </b>Business

    <b>13.23 </b>Thu Aug 15 MI

    <b>Sean </b>ced his hand on Reba¡¯s shoulder, squeezing gently. ¡°You did the right thing, Becky. It¡¯s time to move forward.¡±

    Reba nodded, but the tears in her eyes betrayed her. ¡°I know, but it hurts. I thought maybe, just maybe, things could go back to the way they were<b>.</b>¡±

    Sean pulled her into a hug, holding her tightly. ¡°You have me, and you have Lily. We¡¯ll get through this together.¡±

    Reba clung to him, takingfort in his steady presence. After a few moments, she pulled back, wiping her tears. ¡°I need to be strong for Lily. She deserves better than this

    mess.¡±

    Sean nodded, a determined look in his eyes. ¡°Exactly. And we¡¯ll make sure she gets the love and support she needs.¡±

    The next day, Reba decided to return to social media. She cooks in the morning.

    with Sean and shows it off, hoping Harvey will see it and get jealous. ¡°Want to alone

    take a stroll and shop on Fifth Avenue?¡± Sean asked when Reba was contemting alone on the condo balcony.

    Reba stared at Sean for a moment. At first, he wanted to refuse but he knew Sean was trying to cheer him up, so he finally nodded. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll get Lily ready and change clothes,¡± he said as he turned around and dragged his feet towards the room without enthusiasm.

    ¡°Buy something nice for you, haven¡¯t you shopped for luxury goods in a long time? Show the world that you have a rich husband, Sean teased as they passed a luxury goods store.

    Reba grimaced, shaking her head. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for shopping.¡±

    When they were about to turn into a cafe, three paparazzi suddenly intercepted Reba, pointing the camera at her so that she couldn¡¯t dodge.

    ¡°Becky, have you heard the news about Alicia Fox¡¯s pregnancy? Can you give a statement?¡± babbled the paparazzi quickly.

    If she followed her ego, of course Reba would push away the paparazzi who had ruined her day, but instead of doing that, she smiled broadly. ¡°Well, congrattions! I hope the mother and baby are healthy until the delivery.¡±

    ¡°How do you feel that Alicia¡¯s child might be a sibling to your daughter?¡±

    A

    awalpindi: Optical Emission Spectrom

    13:23 Thu, Aug 15 MW.

    Reba frowned. ¡°There¡¯s no such siblings or something like that. My daughter Lily Madeline Parker is the only daughter of me and my husband, Sean Parker. So please. stop associating us with other families, to be honest, it¡¯s quite annoying,¡± said Reba, trying to keep smiling even though she was angry.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that statement seem to confirm the usation that your daughter is not actually a biological descendant of Harvey Specter?¡±

    Reba felt her anger reach the top of her head.

    *+ 66%)

    13 23 Thu Nu 15 LI

 BIT 94

    Suddenly, Sean gripped the paparazzi¡¯s arm tightly. ¡°Stop talking nonsense. Can¡¯t you see there¡¯s a baby here?¡± he hissed angrily, momentarily unaware that all the cameras. were focused on him. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Sean,¡± Reba called, pulling his hand away from the paparazzo¡¯s wrist, who winced in pain. Sean immediately realized what he was doing and released his grip, looking around in shock as everyone recorded his face.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here,¡± Reba said, quickly pushing Lily¡¯s stroller out of the crowd. She knew that the media would blow this incident out of proportion. ¡°Shit!¡± she cursed, realizing the chaos that was about to ensue.

    ¡°What?¡± Sean responded, offended, thinking her words were directed at him.

    Reba frowned but said nothing as she hurried into the car. Sean followed a moment.ter.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to let them treat you like that? Don¡¯t you realize they¡¯re humiliating you? And now you me me for standing up to them?¡± Sean ranted. For the first time, Reba saw a sh of anger in his eyes.

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m not ming you, Sean, but we all know we can¡¯t act like that with the media or they¡¯ll retaliate mercilessly,¡± she replied wearily.

    ¡°Does that still matter to you? Huh? Is your reputation more important than your daughter¡¯s dignity?¡± Sean snapped, mming the steering wheel, making Reba stare at him in shock; she had never seen him act like this before.

    She looked out the window, realizing they were the paparazzi¡¯s prime target. In a few minutes, their faces would be all over the media, and Alicia would be delighted.

    ¡°Sean, what¡¯s wrong with you? Take a deep breath, okay?¡± Reba asked, swallowing her pride. She didn¡¯t know what was happening with Sean, but she knew she didn¡¯t want to argue there and let all of America watch them.

    Sean closed his eyes, regting his breathing and opened them a minuteter with a calmer expression. He started the car, checked Lily¡¯s car seat to ensure it was secure, and drove

    speed, leaving the paparazzi still busy taking pictures of away at a moderate

    them.

    14

    Aug 15

    Reba stared out the window, feeling a tightness in her chest, but she held back her tears with all her strength. For some reason, she felt Sean would not handle her emotions as he had before.

    ¡°Just ignore it!¡± Sean snapped when Reba was about to check her phone because her social media notifications were incessantly buzzing.

    Reba held back from snapping back. She switched her phone to silent mode and it back in her bag.

    put

    There was no conversation between them during the drive from Fifth Avenue to the condo: ¡°Let me do it!¡± Sean barked when Reba was about to take Lily out of the car seat. Reba felt deeply offended by the way Sean spoke to her but took a deep breath, trying hard not to argue.

    ¡°Make sure she¡¯s alright, Sean muttered after cing Lily in her crib.

    Reba sighed heavily. ¡°Sean, she is my daughter. Of course, I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s alright! What¡¯s wrong with you? I didn¡¯t want to say this, but I have to: you¡¯re overreacting,¡± she said firmly.

    Sean turned, surprised. He pulled Reba out of the room so Lily wouldn¡¯t wake up because of their conversation. ¡°I don¡¯t care. I will protect my daughter even if it¡¯s overreacting!¡± he snapped, his eyes shing with anger, then walked away, leaving Reba.

    Reba was stunned, staring at Sean¡¯s back in confusion. ¡°Who are you, Sean?¡± she whispered. She was sure something was wrong with Sean. Since she saw Sean¡¯s strange reaction when threatening Victoria, she knew something was off with him. She rubbed her neck, suddenly feeling cold, traumatized by the incident with Nichs a year ago. She didn¡¯t want it to happen again, especially since she had Lily to protect.

    She took two cans of cold beer from the fridge and returned to her room. Feeling uncertain, she sat on the sofa, hugging her knees. She used to have Cathy to talk to, but now she had no one.

    As if connected by some invisible thread, Cassie suddenly called her. She stared at her phone¡¯s screen for a few seconds, wondering if Cassie was someone she could trust, but finally decided to answer.

    ¡°Becky?¡± Cassie¡¯s voice sounded worried.

    ¡°Hey,¡± Reba tried to sound cheerful, though she failed because her voice was hoarse.

    ¡°You guys are all over the news. Are you okay? Do you need anything?¡± Cassie asked, her voice so sincere that it made Reba cry silently.

    ¡°Becky, are you still there?¡±

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m not really worried about the news, but I¡¯m thinking about something else,¡± she whispered, suddenly worried because Sean might be cavesdropping behind the door.

    ¡°Something else? What do you mean?¡± Cassie asked, confused.

    Reba took a deep breath. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but Scan, he¡¯s acting different. I mean, really strange. He¡¯s overly protective of Lily and acts like he doesn¡¯t trust that I can be a good mother. I mean, it doesn¡¯t sound that simple; guess I have to tell you everything from the beginning-¡±

    ¡°About histe wife and daughter, right?¡± Cassie interrupted, making Reba¡¯s eyes widen in surprise.

    ¡°You knew?¡±

    ¡°Becky, one of the Brushes members mentioned to me that they heard from a friend in Boston that Sean¡¯s marriage background with histe wife wasn¡¯t as smooth as it seemed,¡± Cassie said cautiously.

    Reba felt tension throughout her body. She straightened up. ¡°What do you mean?<b>¡± </b>

    Cassie was silent for a few moments, making Reba even more fearful.

    ¡°Cassie? You still there?¡±

    ¡°Um, but this is from an unreliable source, okay? I mean, my friend only heard gossip circting there, so it¡¯s not confirmed,¡± Cassie said cautiously.

    ¡°Okay? Can you just tell me what you found out about him?¡± Reba asked impatiently.

    ¡°So the rumor is that Sean oftenmitted domestic violence against histe wife, which led her to depression, and the ident that day was¡­

 BIT 95

    Chapter <b>95 </b>

    Reba nearly dropped her phone, her eyes widening in shock.

    ¡°Becky, are you still there?¡± Cassie asked anxiously.

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡±

    +66%

    <b>¦° </b>

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s just a rumor. I mean, seeing how he and Ang have been so good to you and Lily, it seems almost impossible, Cassie rambled quickly.

    Reba let out a long sigh, ¡°I wish¡­ Can you dig deeper for me? I¡¯m not asking you to do this for free. I¡¯ll pay you a fair amount, I promise. Please?¡± N?velDrama.Org ? content.

    Cassie sighed deeply, ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll do it if you ask me. Well, I actually wanted to do it for free, but since I¡¯m unemployed now, I¡¯ll dly ept your offer,¡± she said shyly.

    ¡°You know what? Just work for me! Will you?¡± Reba blurted out suddenly.

    ¡°What? Are you serious?¡± Cassie responded, shocked.

    ¡°Yes! Keep me updated on everything! I gotta go, Lily needs me!¡± Reba eximed as she heard Lily crying. She rushed to the crib and picked Lily up, not wanting Sean to suddenly appear in her room like he had before.

    She brought Lily with her to the bed, cing her beside her and watching her adorable face as a wave of guilt hit her suddenly.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have rushed into marrying Sean,¡± she murmured, gently stroking Lily¡¯s forehead.

    Suddenly, her phone vibrated. She reached for it on the nightstand and frowned when she saw an unknown number calling. Hesitantly, she swiped the green button and put the phone to her ear.

    ¡°Becky? Is this you?¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock, she straightened up, gripping her phone tightly.

    ¡°Harvey?¡± she whispered, almost breathless.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, knowing she should say she was line, but instead, she just cried until her chest felt tight.

    ¡°Becky, is something wrong? Is Sean hurting you and Lily?¡± Harvey asked, his voice filled with concern.

    Before Reba could say anything, the call abruptly ended. Reba put her phone. down and hugged her knees, crying silently. She truly didn¡¯t know what to do; every step she took seemed to end in trouble.

    The next morning.

    She left the room holding Lily and found Sean making breakfast as usual.

    ¡°Morning.¡± Sean greeted, looking up when he saw Reba.

    ¡°Morning,¡± Reba replied stiffly. She ced Lily in the bouncer and went to the pantry to make coffee.

    ¡°Did Lily sleep wellst night?¡± Sean asked casually as if nothing had happened Yesterday.

    Reba gripped her coffee cup tightly, feeling certain something was wrong with Sean ¡°Yeah, she just woke up for milk,¡± she answered without turning her head.

    A few secondster.

    ¡°Look, I¡¯m sorry about yesterday.¡±

    Reba looked up and saw Sean standing in front of her with a te of pancakes. She stared at Sean¡¯s face and could see the guilt there, though she couldn¡¯t tell if it was genuine or not.

    ¡°Me too.¡±

    That¡¯s all Reba could say. She smiled briefly and then refocused on her coffee cup.

    Sean sighed deeply. ¡°I know I overreacted, but I did it because I care so much about Lily. I couldn¡¯t protect Bea before, so I don¡¯t want the same thing to happen to Lily,¡± he said, trying hard to convince Reba.

    I know.¡± Reba nodded and took her coffee cup to the living room where Lily was busy ying with her hands. Sean soon followed and sat on the sofa not far from her.

    Rawalpindi: Optical Endasion Spectrometers That Cut

    Chignes S

    ¡°Pancake?¡± he asked, pushing the te of pancakes towards Reba.

    ¡°Thanks, I¡¯m not in the mood for pancakes: Reba pushed the te back to Sem, then lifted her coffee cup and sipped it slowly,

    Suddenly, Sean mmed the table hard, making Lily cry and causing Reba to <b>spill </b>her coffee in surprise. ¡°What¡¯s wrong <b>with </b>you?¡± Reba hissed, <b>jumping </b>up and picking Lily up from the bouncer. She looked up and met Sean¡¯s eyes, <b>which </b>suddenly seemed terrifying as if something had possessed him<b>. </b>

    In the tense situation, the doorbell suddenly rang loudly. Both Reba and Sean turned towards the door, surprised as they weren¡¯t expecting anyone.

    Reba sighed in relief when Sean turned towards the door instead of continuing thei

    argument.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay baby, I¡¯m sorry, Reba whispered, hugging Lily. She felt her intuition was right, something was definitely wrong with Sean.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Cassie called from the door, <b>smiling </b>widely at her while carrying two shopping bags. Reba frowned, wondering why Cassie suddenly appeared at her house.

    I brought gifts from Becky Brushes for Lily!¡± Cassie eximed, cing the <b>big </b>shopping bag on the floor and winking at Reba as if signaling something.

    Shortly after, Sean appeared from the door. ¡°Becky, I¡¯m going out to buy diapers for Lily,¡± he said, grabbing the car keys from the drawer.

    Reba nodded stiffly.

    Sean waved at Cassic, who also looked at him, then disappeared behind the door. Cassie hurried to the window and sighed in relief. ¡°He left.¡±

    Reba frowned,

    ¡°Cassie, what is it? Are you nning something?¡± she asked, cing Lily back in the bouncer, who had calmed down.

    *she asked, cing Lily back in the

    Cassie took a long breath, ¡°Didn¡¯t you see these dark circles? I stayed up all night to find valid evidence about the domestic violence rumors involving Sean and Maggie, she said, walking closer to Reba, who watched her tensely.

    ¡°And?¡± Reba clenched her fingers, which suddenly felt cold.

    Tinh Thu Aug 12 WU.

    bb%

    Cassie took her phone from her pocket, scrolled for a moment, then showed the screen. to Reba. ¡°Look at this, isn¡¯t this Maggie Parker? Have you ever seen her face? See? She reported the case to the police, and it made the local news in Boston, but somehow it just disappeared and was never heard of again.¡±

    Reba felt her entire body go cold; on Cassie¡¯s phone, she could see Maggie, bruised as if someone had just beaten her.

    ¡°Oh God¡­¡±

    Cassie nodded, sighing deeply. ¡°I know<b>, </b>it¡¯s horrible. Um, Becky, aren¡¯t you curious why the police didn¡¯t pursue the case?¡±

    Reba swallowed and nodded slowly.

    Cassie scrolled her phone again, and then showed it to Reba. ¡°Here, take a look! The sheriff who handled the case, he¡¯s-¡±

    ¡°Thomas Parker, Sean¡¯s uncle,¡± Reba choked out, her voice breaking, suddenly everything made perfect sense.

    *****

 BIT 96

    +65%

    Reba felt the world spinning faster than usual. She leaned back, stunned by the reality she had just heard.

    ¡°I made a mistake, again,¡± she murmured, staring nkly at the ceiling.

    Cassie winced, patting Reba¡¯s shoulder empathetically. ¡°You have <i>to </i>stop this, Becky, before it¡¯s toote,¡± she said, ncing asionally at the door, wary of Sean, who could appear at any moment.

    Reba looked over at Lily sleeping in the bouncer, biting her lip before saying, ¡°How?¡± in a weary voice.

    ¡°We can¡¯t confront someone like Sean, or the Nichs Bet incident will happen again,¡± Cassie said, her eyes still watching the entrance.

    ¡°Then what do you suggest I do?¡± Reba asked, her tone devoid of energy.

    ¡°Escape,¡± Cassie whispered dramatically. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba snorted, ¡°Escape? Didn¡¯t you see where I ended up thest time I tried to run away? I don¡¯t have the means for that. Whatever Sean intends for me and Lily, he¡¯ll catch us quickly. And then there¡¯s Victoria. If she finds out Sean and I split, she¡¯lle after Lily <i>to </i>eliminate her from this world,¡± she sighed deeply, shaking her head in despair.

    Cassie scratched her head, unable to deny Reba¡¯s words. ¡°I and Becky Brushes will help you, somehow. But you need to think about this n. I mean, you know your marriage isn¡¯t going to work out,¡± she rambled cautiously.

    Reba swallowed hard and nodded stiffly.

    ¡°Act normal so Sean doesn¡¯t get suspicious. I think he¡¯s back!¡± Cassie whispered as they heard the door open from outside. She quickly jumped onto the carpet, unpacking the two shopping bags she brought.

    ¡°I like that one!¡± Reba shouted, catching on to Cassie¡¯s act. She pointed to a cute pink mirror Cassie was holding.

    ¡°Yeah, this is pretty! I think you should make time to meet with them asionally I mean, they, well we. are fane who<b>¡­</b>:11.

    65%

    13:25

    Thu, Aug

    ¡°Knock, knock!¡± Sean called out, making Reba and Cassie turn towards him, both feigning surprise as if they hadn¡¯t noticed his presence.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re back. What is that?¡± Reba asked, ncing at the shopping bags in Sean¡¯s

    arms.

    ¡°Just some kitchen stuff. I¡¯ll cook for lunch. Cassie, wanna join us for lunch?¡± Sean asked, no longer looking as menacing as he did when he left the house earlier.

    Cassie grinned widely, ¡°Sure! I love free lunch!¡± she eximed as if nothing had happened. Reba winced, surprised at how good an actress Cassie was.

    As Sean headed to the kitchen, Reba decided to get up and join him. She didn¡¯t know what she would do next, but for now, she had no choice but to pretend she was oblivious about Sean.

    ¡°What are you going to make?¡± she asked, watching Sean unpack the groceries.

    ¡°Spaghetti Allo Scoglio and some sd. What do you think?¡± Sean responded casually.

    Reba nodded, ¡°Sounds good. Is there anything I can help with?¡± she asked, trying to make Sean believe she wasn¡¯t nning anything against him.

    ¡°Sure, can you help with this?¡± Sean ced a box of seafood in front of Reba, his face looking pleased that she was no longer acting cold.

    ¡°Wow, this is so good! Well done, chef!¡± Cassie eximed as she chewed the spaghetti in her mouth. Sean smiled widely, and from his expression, Reba was sure he didn¡¯t suspect anything.

    ¡°Um, Sean, actually Cassie suggested I get back on social media, so I n to have a meeting with Becky Brushes because, after all, they are the ones who will support my career,¡± Reba said casually to avoid Sean¡¯s suspicion.

    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea. I can watch Lily for you,¡± Sean replied, making Reba and Cassie exchange surprised looks.

    Reba winced, ¡°Yeah, thanks,¡± she replied, feeling foolish for not considering that Sean would offer to take care of Lily and realizing she had no excuse to refuse.

    <b>2/4 </b>

    The next day.

    ¡°Um, I¡¯ll be back before dinner. Are you sure you guys will be okay?¡± Reba asked, crouching next to Lily¡¯s bouncer.

    Sean smiled, ¡°Of course, we¡¯ll be fine!¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, worried about leaving Lily with Sean after hearing about the domestic violence hemitted against Maggie, but she had to go because Cassie promised to help her find the best way out.

    ¡°Thanks, Sean,¡± she said, kissing Lily¡¯s forehead and waving at Sean.

    She left the house with heavy steps, pausing for a moment to rethink her n. How could she be so cruel to leave her daughter with someone as temperamental as Sean?

    She clenched her fists<b>, </b>confused, when suddenly her phone vibrated; it was Cassie.

    ¡°Becky? Are you on your way?¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, ¡°I don¡¯t know, Cassie. I¡¯m not sure about leaving Lily with Sean, I mean-¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she will be fine. Juste here, okay? Everyone¡¯s waiting,¡± Cassie said amidst the crowd.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid something will happen to Lily. I won¡¯t forgive myself if it does,¡± Reba said, gripping her phone tightly.

    ¡°Becky, someone will make sure Lily is safe until you get back,¡± Cassie said cautiously, making Reba frown in confusion.

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    Soon after, she saw a cab pull over, and a man stepped out, wearing a hoodie and mask that almostpletely covered his face, but Reba could recognize his sharp, charismatic eyes.

    She approached the man and grabbed his arm,

    ¡°Harvey? What are you doing here?¡±

    Harvey looked up, surprised.

    <ol>

    <li>NW. </li>

    </ol>

    1325 Thu, Aug 15 1 60 K

    ¡°Becky, you met Harvey already?¡± Cassie eximed, still on the phone.

    Reba frowned,

    ¡°Cassie, you better exin everything to me now! Why did Harvey suddenly appear in front of my house? Is the person you said would watch over Lily from Sean actually him?¡± she rambled without taking her eyes off Harvey, who stared back unblinkingly.

    Cassie cleared her throat twice,

    ¡°Yes, um, I called himst night¡­¡±

    Reba let out a long sigh; everything was getting moreplicated.

    ****

    <b>*** </b>

 BIT 97

    ¡°Harvey, you can¡¯t be around here<i>. </i>If your mother sees you, you¡¯ll put Lily in danger,¡± Reba said, still on the phone with Cassie, wanting her to hear that her initiative was a mistake.

    ¡°It¡¯s no different from you leaving Lily with your psychopath of a husband. I don¡¯t understand why you would repeat the same mistake, Harvey retorted coldly.

    Reba felt her blood boil. ¡°Repeat the same mistake, you say? If it weren¡¯t for you and your inability to keep our <b>family </b>together, I would never have made this stupid mistake! How dare you me me after everything you and your family have done to me and Lily! Just go away, Harvey, you¡¯re not needed anymore-¡±

    ¡°And you, Cavie, I won¡¯t be attending the meeting with Becky Brushes today. I¡¯m very disappointed in you, Reba said, ending the call and gripping her phone tightly.

    She red at Harvey and turned back towards the condo, but Harvey suddenly grabbed her hand,

    ¡°We need to talk! Harvey snapped, pulling Reba into the bookstore next to the condo and cornering her in the farthest aisle.<i>, </i>

    Reba yanked her hand free from Harvey¡¯s grip. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± she hived angrily, standing on tiptoe to peek outside, worried someone might have followed them<b>. </b>

    Harvey let out a long sigh and removed the mask covering <b>his </b>face, revealing his handsome, charismatic features that male Reba¡¯s heart momentarily skip a beat. ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this. There¡¯s nothing to talk about, Reba said, trying to push past. Harvey, but he blocked her path.

    ¡°Pecky, I can¡¯t do this anymore, Harvey said<b>, </b>his voice unusually frustrated.

    Reba frowned, confused. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean¡±

    Harvey sighed deeply. Listen, I <b>still </b>have to y <b>my </b>role in Victoria and Alicia¡¯s game, at least until I find a way to free my mother-

    ¡°Yeah, take your time. If you¡¯re so great and can handle everything on your own, then go ahead. Haven¡¯t 1 told you, since you refused to involve me and Lily, there¡¯s nothing left between us, Reba interrupted coldly.

    1.5. Thu Aug 15

    @ <b>+</b>65%1

    Harvey rubbed his face in desperation. ¡°Becky, give me six months. Please, <i>go </i>somewhere far away with Lily. You can consider one of the countries in Asia, and I promise I¡¯ll follow you as soon as I¡¯m done with Victoria¡±

    Reba looked at him doubtfully, but Harvey suddenly grabbed her hand and held it tightly.

    ¡°None of us want anything bad to happen to Lily. I¡¯ve already had Max investigate Sean¡¯s background, and there¡¯s something you need to know,¡± Harvey said.

    Reba swallowed, unprepared for anything Harvey might say, especially since Max¡¯s investigations were usually spot¨Con.

    ¡°You knew about Maggie Parker and her baby, right?¡±

    Reba nodded, ¡°Beatrice, yeah, why?¡±

    ¡°They had an ident that night while trying to escape from Sean. There¡¯s something you need to see,¡± Harvey said, releasing Reba¡¯s hand to take his phone out of his jeans pocket.

    ¡°Here¡¯s a photo of Maggie¡¯s autopsy that was hidden from the public,¡± Harvey said, showing Reba the screen of his phone.

    ¡°Oh God¡­¡±

    Reba instantly felt weak. On the screen, she could see images of Maggie Parker¡¯s face and body, covered in bruises, as if she had been brutally beaten before the ident that took her life.

    Reba covered her face with both hands. ¡°I have to go,

    Lily¡­¡±

    Harvey grabbed her hand. ¡°Becky, listen to me carefully. My movements are limited because Victoria is always watching me, but Max will help you get out of here. Choose any country in Asia, and don¡¯t tell anyone, not even me. When the time is right, I¡¯ll find you,¡± he said earnestly.

    Reba swallowed hard, her mind too chaotic to process everything. She only nodded stiffly, without saying a word. Harvey pulled her into his arms. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this again. Please, take care of yourself and Lily for me. I love you both.¡±

    Reba walked stiffly out of the bookstore. She looked up at the condo she lived in, and suddenly, tears began to fall.

    <b>3 </b>

    ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. I never should have rushed into marrying Sean. Instead of saving Lily, I¡¯ve thrown her into the arms of a psychopath disguised as a good father,¡± she

    murmured silently. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    She knew that if she returned to the condo with a tense face, Sean would be suspicious of her. So she decided to stop for a moment at the caf¨¦ next to the bookstore to calm herself down. She ordered a cup of coffee and then called the number Harvey had given her.

    ¡°Max, this is Becky, do you remember me?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do. So, have you decided on a destination and departure time?¡± Max asked without any other questions, as Harvey had already told him everything.

    Reba cleared her throat quietly and began to exin to Max what was on her mind.

    An hourter, she returned to the condo, struggling to hide the turmoil inside her. At the front door, she took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, convincing herself that everything would be okay.

    She opened the door slowly and stepped inside with a pounding heart.

    ¡°Becky, you¡¯re back early?¡± Sean asked, sitting on the sofa with Lily in his arms.

    Reba winced, ¡°Yeah, the event ended early because one of the Becky Brushes members suddenly went intobor,¡± she replied, ncing at Lily sleeping peacefully in Sean¡¯s arms and feeling a pang of guilt, realizing Sean probably wouldn¡¯t hurt Lily just as he never hurt Bea.

    ¡°Is she okay?¡± Reba asked, looking at Lily and smiling, though her lips trembled slightly.

    Sean smiled and nodded. ¡°Yeah, she just had some milk. I¡¯ll put her to sleep in your room,¡± he said, standing up and carrying Lily to Reba¡¯s room.

    ¡°Shit, should I confront him and give him a chance to exin? How can I just leave when he¡¯s helped me so much?¡± Reba murmured silently. She watched Sean¡¯s back with hesitation.

    ¡°But he¡¯s an abuser, Becky! He beat his wife so badly that she had to flee in fear and died in an ident! Where¡¯s your solidarity as a fellow woman?¡± a voice in her head screamed.

    13:25 Thu, Aug 15 MW<i>. </i>

    1465%%%

    ¡°Becky? Are you okay?¡± Sean asked, noticing Reba standing in the hallway, staring nkly at the bedroom door.

    Reba swallowed hard, her hands trembling as she couldn¡¯t hold back her question any longer.

    ¡°Sean, I think we need to talk¡­¡±

 BIT 98

    Sean frowned, staring at Reba for a moment before nodding.

    Reba swallowed nervously. She walked to the pantry, grabbed two cans of beer from the fridge, and then sat ufortably on a stool.

    ¡°Okay, what¡¯s going on? You look really serious,¡± Sean murmured, casually taking <i>a </i>beer <b>from </b>the table and opening it, which made Reba hesitate to continue her

    interrogation.

    Reba sipped her beer slowly<i>, </i>taking a deep breath. ¡°There¡¯s something I want to ask about-*

    Just say it, Becky, it¡¯s okay!¡± Sean interrupted, noticing the hesitation on Reba¡¯s face.

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Um, it¡¯s about Maggie and <i>Bea¡¯s </i>ident,¡± she said, trying hard not to show fear because she worried it might trigger Sean¡¯s anger.

    Sean¡¯s face turned pale instantly. He gripped the beer can a little tighter, then nodded his head. ¡°Go ahead, ask anything,¡± he said, trying to appear calm even though Reba could sense the tension in his voice.

    ¡°Just answer honestly, okay? I¡¯m not going to judge you or anything; I just want to know the truth because, after all, you are Lily¡¯s father,¡± she said with a stiff smile.

    Sean nodded, staring at Reba without blinking.

    ¡°I heard a rumor from a gossip forum that you were reported to the police for domestic violence against Maggie. I just want to confirm with you about that rumor,¡± Reba said cautiously, deliberately hiding the fact that she had already seen Maggie Parker¡¯s autopsy report

    Sean¡¯s eyes widened, and his jaw tightened instantly. For a moment, he remained silent, making Reba anxious, fearing Sean might explode.

    ¡°The rumor that Maggie reported me to the police is true, but the rumor that Imitted domestic violence against her is a misunderstanding, Sean finally said. Reba frowned. ¡°A misunderstanding? What do you mean?¡± she asked, confused.

    Sean took a deep breath. ¡°I remember that night, Maggie and I were arguing. I was ying billiards, and in a fit of anger, I threw <b>a </b>billiard ball toward the pool, but

    13:25 Thu, Aug 154 C7.

    identally hit Maggie on the head, injuring her pretty badly. She reported me to the police, but I was ultimately proven innocent because, well, I wasn¡¯t guilty¡±

    Reba clenched her fists beneath the kitchen ind. From the way he spoke, she knew Sean was lying, but at least she had given him a chance to exin.

    ¡°Oh,¡± Reba murmured, nodding. ¡°I¡¯m d asked you instead of listening to the nonsense out there, I knew you couldn¡¯t have done something so low,¡± she added, smiling as she tried to appear sincere so Sean wouldn¡¯t suspect her. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Sean cleared his throat, nodding nervously. ¡°Well, is that all?<b>¡± </b>

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, I feel relieved now that I¡¯ve heard it directly from you,¡± she said, standing up from the stool. ¡°By the way, how¡¯s the n for your clinic opening?¡± she asked offhandedly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve secured a great location nearby, and I just need to furnish the interior. I¡¯ve also asked E to order the medical equipment, so I should be able to start interviewing staff candidates by next week,¡± he replied casually, no longer sounding tense like before.

    ¡°Great, I hope everything goes smoothly,¡± she said with a smile, while secretly her mind was busy nning something.

    ¡°Yeah, Lily will be proud to have a father who¡¯s a great pediatrician,¡± Sean murmured with a warm smile, which confused Reba. She wondered, what was wrong with Sean? If he was so warm, why did he hurt Maggie?

    The next day.

    Reba was holding Lily when her phone vibrated. She ced Lily in the crib, picked up her phone from the nightstand, and saw Cassie¡¯s name on the screen.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Becky, I¡¯m so sorry! Please, don¡¯t be mad at me!¡± Cassie whined on the other end. Reba sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± she replied as she slowly walked towards her bedroom door and closed it gently, afraid that Sean might eavesdrop on her conversation.

    ¡°Thank you! I promise I won¡¯t cross the line again! Can I still work with you?¡± Cassie pleaded.

    Reba sank into the sofa, debating whether or not to tell Cassie, but she remembered

    A

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    Harvey¡¯s warning that no one could know about the n.

    ¡°Cassie, I might not be active on my social media for a while, so-¡±

    ¡°WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING?<b>¡± </b>Cassie shrieked on the other end.

    Reba pulled the phone away from her ear, grimacing. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll find you another job. I have plenty of connections, so I¡¯ll rmend you.¡±

    ¡°Becky! Is Sean threatening you? Tell me what¡¯s really going on!¡± Cassie asked worriedly.

    Reba fell silent, biting her lower lip.

    ¡°Cassie, listen carefully¡­¡± She exined all her ns to Cassie for nearly ten minutes, but she didn¡¯t reveal the country she was going to, as Harvey had instructed her to keep that a secret from everyone.

    ¡°Oh my God, I¡¯m going to miss you and Lily. I¡¯m soing to your house right now!¡±

    ¡°No, Cassie! Don¡¯t!¡± Reba eximed, trying not to shout.

    ¡°Why?¡± Cassie asked, feeling rejected.

    Reba sighed deeply. ¡°I don¡¯t want Sean to connect my departure with you, so I¡¯ll tell him I¡¯ve found a new job and won¡¯t be able to help anymore.¡±

    ¡°So, we won¡¯t see each other again?¡± Cassie asked, holding back tears.

    ¡°Maybe someday, I don¡¯t know¡­¡±

    After ending the call with Cassie, Rebay on the bed, staring nkly at the ceiling. She wondered if her life would ever return to normal, like when she was a child in the orphanage.

    Then suddenly, her thoughts drifted to Ang. She became curious whether Ang knew about Sean and Maggie or not. She sat up and called Max.

    ¡°Becky?<b>¡± </b>

    ¡°Um, Max, there¡¯s something I want to ask you,¡± Reba whispered, almost inaudibly, so Sean couldn¡¯t overhear her.

    ¡°I¡¯m listening¡°

    65%

    ¡°Um, it¡¯s about Sean. Does his mother know about the abuse he inflicted on his wife?¡± Reba asked, gripping her phone tightly.

    ¡°She knew,¡± Max replied tly.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Are you sure?¡± she asked, unable to believe that Ang could have been involved in something so cruel.

    Max sighed deeply. ¡°She¡¯s the one who asked Thomas Parker to bury the case.¡±

    Reba was stunned. She had always thought of Ang as a kind fairy godmother. How could she have allowed Maggie to be trapped in such a toxic marriage with her

    son?

    ¡°Becky? Becky?¡±

    Suddenly, Sean banged on the door, hard.

    *****

 BIT 99

    Reba stood nervously behind the door, gathering her courage before slowly opening

    <ol>

    <li>it. </li>

    </ol>

    ¡°Sean? What happened?¡± she asked, trying hard not to show her fear.

    ¡°We need to fly to Boston immediately! My mom¡­ she had a heart attack!¡± Sean blurted out in a panic.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock. She clenched her hands, confused, but knew she had no choice but to go to Boston with Sean. After all, they had once helped her through difficult times.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get ready,¡± Reba said, hurrying back into the bedroom. A few minutester, she returned with Lily, sound asleep in her stroller, and a 24¨Cinch suitcase filled with all her cash.

    Sean looked utterly disheveled, as if the news of Ang¡¯s illness hadpletely shattered him.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± he said, taking the suitcase from Reba¡¯s hand and quickly walking out of the condo.

    ¡°Your mom will be fine, just like before,¡± Reba said, hesitantly touching Sean¡¯s shoulder as he sat next to her. The cab driver asionally nced at them in the

    rearview mirror.

    Sean took a deep breath and covered his face. ¡°I don¡¯t know, this time I have a really bad feeling.¡±

    Reba could sense the fragility in Sean, making her realize that her fake husband truly cared for his mother. This made her wonder how a man who loved his mother so much could harm his own wife.

    They arrived at the airport forty minutester and took the earliest flight to Boston. Throughout the flight, Sean was lost in his thoughts. He, who usually cared so much for Lily, didn¡¯t even acknowledge her.

    ¡°Why are we heading home?¡± Reba asked, confused, as she had assumed they would go straight to the hospital, not Ang¡¯s house

    <b>1/4 </b>

    ¡°They¡¯ve already brought her home,¡± Sean replied stiffly. Reba looked at Sean, puzzled, but chose to stay silent. When they arrived at Ang¡¯s house, they were greeted by Thomas, who was standing somberly with a sad expression.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sean.¡± Thomas said, his voice breaking as he nearly cried.

    Reba gripped the stroller handle tightly, starting to realize what had happened. She watched as Sean broke down, crying in his uncle¡¯s arms with mixed emotions.

    Without asking Sean or Thomas, Reba pushed Lily¡¯s stroller into Ang¡¯s house and almost bumped into E, who was justing out of Ang¡¯s room.

    ¡°E! What happened? Where is Ang?¡± Reba asked, confused.

    E bit her upper lip, her face stricken. ¡°She¡¯s gone, Becky¡­¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock. It felt like all her bones were being pulled apart one by one. She wasn¡¯t just saddened by Ang¡¯s death but also worried that it would change the carefullyid ns she had made.

    She turned around to look at Sean and saw him utterly devastated. ¡°E, can you watch Lily for me?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± E responded quickly, taking the stroller from Reba.

    Reba took a deep breath, and all her fears of Sean seemed to evaporate, reced by empathy and concern. She walked over to Sean and hugged him tightly.

    ¡°Sean, I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡±

    Sean rested his head on Reba¡¯s shoulder and sobbed like a child. Reba gently rubbed his back, saying nothing, allowing him to release his grief in her embrace.

    That day, Reba watched as Sean busily prepared for Ang¡¯s funeral. From the outside, Sean appeared to be a gentle and extraordinary man. She became increasingly curious about why Sean could have harmed Maggie and hoped she might find the answer there and then. Her eyes identally met E¡¯s, who was standing in the backyard, staring nkly at the statue of Maggie and Bea.

    ¡°Hey,¡± Reba greeted, making E turn to her. ¡°Hey, where¡¯s Lily?¡± E asked, noticing that Lily wasn¡¯t with Reba.

    ¡°She¡¯s asleep upstairs. Beer?¡± Reba offered a can of beer, which E epted

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    immediately. ¡°I can¡¯t believe Ang is gone so quickly.¡± Reba murmured after taking a sip of the cold beer in her hand.

    E nodded. ¡°But she went peacefully, knowing that Sean had a normal life. She must have been so grateful to you,¡± she said, looking at Reba earnestly.

    Reba¡¯s stomach dropped. She gripped the beer can tightly, debating whether to ask about Maggic.

    ¡°You know, a lot of people speak badly about Sean. I mean, about how Sean treated Maggie, but Sean was a good husband,¡± E suddenly said, making Reba¡¯s eyes widen. She wasn¡¯t going to waste the opportunity.

    ¡°E, how well do you know Sean and Ang?¡± Reba asked, trying hard not to sound like she was interrogating.

    ¡°They saved me, Becky, and I¡¯ll forever owe them both,¡± E said, not answering Reba¡¯s question.

    ¡°E, you know what I¡¯m talking about, don¡¯t you? I know Sean is a good man, why I want to hear it directly from you¨Cwhat really happened between Maggie and This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    which is Sean?¡± Reba asked cautiously.

    E swallowed nervously. She nced around, making sure no one else was around them, then cleared her throat softly. ¡°It was all Maggie¡¯s fault! She cheated on Sean and wanted to run away with Bea to marry another man!¡± she whispered fiercely.

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock. She knew E could be easily provoked. ¡°Did the domestic violence happen after Maggie was caught cheating? Or did it happen before?¡± she asked, not wanting to miss the chance.

    ¡°Of course, it happened after Maggie was caught cheating! Sean loved Maggie; he adored her! Especially after Bea was born, they were his whole world! Then suddenly Maggie was caught cheating with her yoga instructor, and that¡¯s when Sean started to change. But believe me, Maggie and Bea¡¯s deaths were purely idents! I can guarantee. that one hundred percent!¡± E looked at Reba sharply, trying to convince her.

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s what I believe too. So, since then, Sean has lived with the guilt?¡± Reba murmured, staring at the statue of Maggie and Bea without blinking.

    E nodded. ¡°Ang must have told you everything about how Sean withdrew from the world and spent years in the clinic? And that¡¯s true. Becky, I know what Sean did to

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    Maggie wasn¡¯t right, but that doesn¡¯t change the fact that Sean was a good husband and father. If only Maggie hadn¡¯t cheated, the domestic violence might never have happened!¡±

    Reba nodded, not trying to say anything, because all she wanted to know was the truth behind the domestic violence case that had been buried with Maggie.

    ¡°You won¡¯t leave him just because of that, will you?¡± E asked sharply.

    Reba swallowed hard, not expecting E to ask that question.

    ¡°Leave<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    Reba turned and saw Sean standing a few feet behind them, staring at them with a sharp look.

    *****

 BIT 100

    <b>Chapter </b><b>100 </b>

    ¡°Hey,¡± Reba smiled as she walked over to Sean. ¡°What were you two just talking about?¡± Sean asked, looking curiously at Reba and E.

    ¡°E was just telling me about how Ang saved her life. None of us could believe she¡¯d leave so soon,¡± Reba lied, ring sharply at E.

    E cleared her throat and wiped the corner of her eye. ¡°This is hard not just for you, Sean, but for me and everyone else who loved Ang. Hang in there, okay?¡± she said, gently patting Sean¡¯s shoulder before walking away.

    Reba breathed a sigh of relief, surprised that E could be persuaded to cooperate.

    ¡°Is there anything I can do for you?¡± she asked, looking at Sean with genuine empathy. Sean stared nkly at the floor, and momentster, his shoulders shook as he sobbed uncontrobly.

    Reba was stunned. She embraced Sean and gently patted his back, saying nothing, -allowing him to release his grief.

    ¡°She is a good mother, Becky,¡± Sean sobbed, burying his face in Reba¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°I know. She wasn¡¯t just a good mother; she was a good person. She¡¯s no longer in pain, so we have to let her go,¡± Reba said softly.

    Sean didn¡¯t reply. He pulled away from Reba¡¯s embrace and wiped his tear¨Cstreaked face. ¡°Thanks, Becky. I don¡¯t know what¡¯d do if you weren¡¯t here. So even though my mom is gone, please don¡¯t leave me¡­¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, forcing a stiff nod and smile.

    The funeral went smoothly, attended by hundreds of Ang¡¯s colleagues. Afterward, Sean got busy talking with his rtives, so Reba decided to go inside the house with Lily. She went upstairs and found the ce empty except for them. Suddenly, her eyes were drawn to Sean¡¯s room, which was tightly closed, piquing her curiosity.

    Cautiously, she opened the door and found a room that looked normal. Initially, she intended to leave quickly, fearing someone might catch her, but when her eyes caught sight of a box under the bed, her curiosity overwhelmed her.

    She checked on Lily, who was fast asleep in the stroller, then bent down to pull out the

    V/4

    +65%

    eyes

    medium¨Csized velvet box. ncing at the door, she opened the box and her widened in shock at the sight of intimate photos of Maggie with a man who seemed to be her lover. The man¡¯s face was crossed out with a red marker, and Maggie¡¯s face with a blue one.

    Terrified, Reba quickly returned the velvet box under the bed and hurriedly pushed Lily¡¯s stroller out of the room. She looked around and sighed in relief, seeing no one there.

    She entered her room and shut the door tightly. After cing Lily in the crib, she quickly sent a message to Max, asking him to find out who Maggie Parker¡¯s lover was.

    Just a few minutester, her phone buzzed.

    ¡°Max?<b>¡± </b>

    ¡°That man is Matthew Finley,¡± Max said quickly.

    ¡°And where is he now?¡± Reba asked, needing to be sure before deciding to follow Harvey¡¯s n.

    ¡°Dead.¡±

    Reba covered her mouth in shock. ¡°When? What happened to him?¡± she whispered. ¡°The police records say he died in a single¨Ccar ident, but you need to see the photo I sent,¡± Max replied firmly. Reba hurriedly opened Max¡¯s message, and her body froze as she saw a photo of Matthew Finley lying dead in his home, with a cross¨Cshaped wound on his face.

    ¡°Max¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    <b>¡°</b>I¡¯ll stick with the n,¡± Reba finally said.

    ¡°Good choice. He¡¯s dangerous. You have to leave.¡±

    That night, while they were having dinner in the kitchen, Sean suddenly grabbed Reba¡¯s hands, startling her.

    ¡°Becky, we need to talk,¡± Sean said softly.

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    Reba¡¯s stomach churned. She nodded, ¡°Okay?¡± N?velDrama.Org ? content.

    Sean took a deep breath.

    +65%

    ¡°Let¡¯s stay here for good. You, me, and Lily. Going back to New York will only bring us more trouble. Here, we can live peacefully. I can manage my clinic, and you can do whatever you want. Isn¡¯t that the best option we have?¡± he rambled, looking warmly at Reba.

    Reba swallowed nervously. After everything strange she¡¯d discovered about Sean, she no longer dared to stay with him for long

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll think about it,¡± Reba replied, trying to sound convincing. Sean smiled broadly and released her hands.

    ¡°I think, eventually, I can melt the ice in my heart,¡± Sean muttered.

    Reba frowned. ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Sean smiled.

    ¡°You¡¯re so warm, so I think one day, I might fall in love with you¡­¡±

    Reba felt a sinking sensation in her stomach. She forced a stiff smile, not responding.

    Two dayster, still at Ang¡¯s house,

    ¡°Becky, I have a meeting at the clinic for a few hours. Do you want toe?¡± Sean asked as he stirred his coffee.

    ¡°No, I¡¯ll just take Lily to the nearby caf¨¦ and then head back,¡± Reba replied, trying to sound truthful.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be home before dinner,¡± Sean said, sipping his coffee before waving goodbye to Reba and Lily and leaving the house.

    Reba quickly finished her breakfast and went to her room. She took all of Lily¡¯s things out of the diaper bag and stuffed all her cash into it. Swiftly, she headed downstairs and bumped into one of the maids.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am?¡±

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    Reba smiled, ¡°I¡¯m going to the caf¨¦ near the clinic<i>,</i>¡± she said casually. The maid nodded but watched Reba closely, searching for anything unusual in her behavior. But she found nothing because Reba looked as normal as any mother taking her baby out for a hangout. She only had the diaper bag and the stroller¨Cnothing seemed odd.

    A few minutester, Reba arrived at the caf¨¦ just two blocks from the clinic.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, what time should I pick you up?¡± Sean¡¯s driver asked firmly.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just have coffee and a croissant, well, maybe an hour? I¡¯ll call youter,¡± Reba replied casually. She nced at Sean¡¯s car, feeling confident that the driver would stay in the parking area waiting for her to finish.

    Calmly, she entered the busy caf¨¦ but didn¡¯t stop to sit at a table. Instead, she walked straight to the employee door. She opened it and met an old man who directed her to another exit where a car was waiting for her.

    ¡°Becky, hurry up!¡±

    ¡°Max! Thank God! Did you bring milk and diapers?¡± Reba eximed after getting

    into the car.

    ¡°Per your orders, Ma¡¯am! Shall we?¡± Max asked, looking at Reba through the rearview mirror.

    Reba swallowed hard and nodded, ¡°Please¡­¡±

    *****

    §à

 BIT 101

    Chapter <b>101 </b>

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you sure about this? Mr. Specter is going to be furious when he hears about your n,¡± Max said as they moved into a medium¨Csized camper van and headed back to New York.

    Reba let out a long sigh, gently stroking Lily¡¯s head before turning to Max, who was seated beside her. ¡°That¡¯s why I don¡¯t want you to tell Harvey about this. I¡¯ll pay you more, please?¡±

    Max drummed his fingers on the steering wheel, silent for a moment before nodding. ¡°But if your cover is blown, you have to leave the country immediately. I won¡¯t negotiate on this.¡±

    Reba nodded. ¡°I will. Thank you, Max. I mean it,¡± she said earnestly.

    ¡°I¡¯m just doing my job. Everything you asked for is in the back,¡± Max replied as he turned into a rest area and parked the camper van.

    Reba carried Lily and moved to the back of the van. She ced Lily in the car seat, smiling faintly when she saw aplete vanity set with lights, just as she had requested. After ensuring Lily was fed and sleepingfortably, Reba sat down at the vanity and began something she never thought she¡¯d do¨Ctransforming herself into someone unrecognizable.

    She had asked Max to prepare everything she needed, and he had done so wlessly, following her instructions to the letter.

    An hourter, Max knocked on the divider between the driver¡¯s seat and the back of the van. ¡°Becky, are you done?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± Reba replied, fastening the buttons on her id cardigan. The divider opened, and Max¡¯s face appeared, his eyes widening in shock as he saw Reba, who lookedpletely different from the woman she was an hour ago. She had transformed into a girl with shoulder¨Clength hair, thick sses, e, and arge, hairy mole on her left cheek.

    ¡°Wow, who are you?¡± Max muttered in awe.

    Reba clicked her buckled loafers together and smiled, revealing the braces on her teeth. ¡°Marianne Stevanson, ording to the new identity you gave me,¡± she answered, unable to hide her excitement for the disguise she was about to undertake.

    Max nodded, still in disbelief at Reba¡¯s incredible transformation. ¡°I guess I was wrong to underestimate you when you exined this disguise to me. You¡¯re better than I thought. Buckle up, we¡¯re hitting the road again.¡±

    Reba nodded, taking a deep breath as she tightened the garish id cardigan

    around her body before sitting in the passenger seat, her emotions a mix of excitement and apprehension.

    Five hourster, they arrived in Long Ind, New York, and quickly switched to an SUV waiting for them at a motel with no CCTV. They drove for a few more minutes to a cabin where Reba would stay for a while.

    Max knocked on the cabin door, and a sleepy¨Clooking elderly woman soon appeared. ¡°Maxim!¡± she eximed cheerfully upon seeing Max.

    ¡°Susan, this is Marianne, the woman I told you about,¡± Max introduced Reba¡¯s fake identity to Susan, who immediately broke into a wide smile.

    ¡°Hello, darling! So nice to have you here. Is this Rose?¡± Susan asked, pointing to Lily in Reba¡¯s arms.

    Reba nodded, smiling to reveal her braces. She had deliberately hidden their true identities, even from Max¡¯s closest confidants. She wouldn¡¯t let anyone jeopardize her n.

    ¡°Come on in!¡± Susan said cheerfully.

    ¡°Susan, I have to leave now because I have work to finish. Thank you for letting Marianne and Rose stay here for a while Max said, quickly kissing Susan¡¯s cheek before half¨Crunning back to his SUV.

    After Max left, Susan smiled at Reba and gently patted her shoulder. ¡°You and Rose are safe here, Marianne. Your abusive husband is far away in Texas. He won¡¯t find you here.¡±

    Reba swallowed hard, feeling a pang of guilt for deceiving someone as kind as Susan.

    ¡°This is your room. I don¡¯t have a crib, so I lowered your bed to make sure Rose won¡¯t fall,¡± Susan said, showing them the guest room with a mattress only thirty centimeters off the floor, where Reba and Lily would sleep.

    <i>¡°</i>This is more than enough, ?usan. Thank you.¡± Reba replied, opening the new

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    backpack she had bought and taking out a thousand dors from inside.

    ¡°Um, this may not be much, but I hope you can ept it,¡± she said, pushing the money into Susan¡¯s hand.

    Susan shook her head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay anything. I¡¯m helping you for free,¡± she insisted, trying to return the money, but Reba refused to take it back. She could have given Susan more, but she didn¡¯t want to raise any suspicions.

    ¡°Susan, please, I¡¯ll feel like a burden if you don¡¯t ept this,¡± Reba said earnestly.

    Susan sighed deeply and nodded. ¡°Okay then, thank you. Well, get some rest. You must be tired. See you at dinner!¡± This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba smiled broadly until Susan disappeared behind the door.

    After Susan left, Reba quickly turned on her new phone. She wondered about the chaos unfolding in Boston after she decided to disappear from Sean¡¯s life. She genuinely felt sorry for Sean, who must be lonely, but living with a killer wasn¡¯t something she wanted.

    ¡°Lily, we¡¯re going to stay here for a while until your father can join us, okay? I¡¯m sorry for moving you from one ce to another, but I promise that after this, everything will be okay,¡± Reba whispered as she held Lily close.

    After taking care of Lily and making sure she was fed, Reba left the room and found Susan pouring Italian minestrone soup into bowls on the dining table.

    ¡°How was your sleep?¡± Susan asked, smiling as Reba appeared.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, I really love the vibes of your house¨Cit¡¯s so homey!¡± she said honestly.

    ¡°Really? d to hear that! Sit down, you need to eat something. You¡¯re looking so thin,¡± Susan said cheerfully.

    Reba nodded, pulling out a chair at the dining table and sitting down, her stomach growling with hunger.

    ¡°So, Max said you¡¯d be working as a daily maid for a while?¡± Susan asked as she ced two tes of potato gratin on the table.

    Reba cleared her throat nervously and nodded. ¡°Yeah, I need a daily ie until I

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    can arrange my own ce,¡± she replied, trying to sound casual.

    Susan nodded. ¡°Have you contacted the daily maid agency?¡± she asked curiously.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, um, actually, I¡¯ve already got my first job,¡± she replied as she cut into the potato gratin and took a bite.

    Susan looked up. ¡°Really? Where?¡±

    ¡°Um, at the Specter mansion. They said they need a daily maid for a while¡­¡±

    <b>***** </b>

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 BIT 102

    The Next Day

    Reba woke up at five in the morning, too nervous about the n she would execute that day. She quickly tidied up the house and prepared breakfast because, above all, she needed Susan to like her so that everything would go smoothly.

    ¡°Marianne? Did you clean the whole house? Oh dear! You didn¡¯t have to do that!¡± eximed Susan, surprised to see the clean and tidy house. Reba smiled, ¡°It¡¯s fine, tea?¡±

    Susan smiled and nodded, ¡°Sure, you made pancakes?¡± N?velDrama.Org ? content.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m not that great at cooking, so this is the best I could do,¡± replied Reba as she reached for a teacup from the shelf.

    ¡°Um, Susan, are you sure about looking after Rose for me while I work?¡± asked Reba cautiously. Susan beamed, ¡°Of course, with pleasure! I have a granddaughter, but she¡¯s far away in Hawaii, so taking care of Rose will be a nice way to fill the void,¡± she answered cheerfully.

    Reba sighed in relief. ¡°Thank you so much, I¡¯lle back as soon as my work is done, and I¡¯ll give you half of my paycheck,¡± she said, cing the cup of tea on the table in front of Susan.

    Susan waved her hand dismissively, ¡°Nonsense! I don¡¯t need money! Keep it; you need it more than I do. Now, sit down and have your breakfast. You¡¯ll need a lot of energy to work in that enormous Specter mansion,¡± she said, pulling Reba into the chair beside her.

    Two Hours Later,

    ¡°Susan, I have to go now. Um, thank you for doing this for me,¡± Reba said sincerely. Susan smiled, ¡°No worries, I¡¯m happy to do it, she replied, reaching into the crib to gently stroke Lily¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Rosie baby, Mommy will be away for a while, but I¡¯ll be back in six hours. Please be kind, okay? I love you,¡± whispered Reba, leaning down to kiss Lily¡¯s forehead softly. Thankfully, Lily was still a baby; if she were older, she would have been confused about why her name had changed to Rose.

    1327 Thu, Aug 15 ?I?M:

    Reba nced at her reflection in the window as she left Susan¡¯s house, feeling proud that her appearance was entirely unrecognizable as Reba Harper. Her shoulder- length bob, green braces, thick sses, e¨Ccovered face, and arge, hairy mole on her cheek made her look like someone else entirely.

    With a pounding heart and sweaty palms, she walked down the sidewalk toward the Specter family mansion, located a few blocks from Susan¡¯s house. She pulled out the speech¨Cto¨Ctext device that Max had bought her and tested it one more time. She mustn¡¯t speak at the Specter mansion, or they might recognize her, so she would pretend to be mute. As long as she wasn¡¯t deaf, they would have no reason to reject her.

    A few steps from the Specter mansion, Reba paused. Suddenly, memories from her past rushed through her mind like a documentary film. There were no fond memories of that mansion because the first three years of her marriage to Harvey were utterly unhappy, especially with Victoria and Mia always bullying her. She took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and then walked toward the grand entrance of the mansion.

    She rang the doorbell once and was immediately greeted by someone over the inte. She took out her speech¨Cto¨Ctext device, typed quickly, and pressed the speaker button.

    ¡°I¡¯m mute, so Imunicate using this device. Can you greet me through the camera?¡±

    Soon, a screen lit up, and the face of a security guard appeared.

    ¡°Hi, who are you here to see?¡± he asked tly.

    Reba typed quickly, exining that she had an interview appointment with Nancy, the head maid. Not long after, the gate opened, and a security guard approached to inspect her from head to toe.

    The guard scrutinized Reba¡¯s face closely. ¡°Marianne, huh?¡± he asked, ncing at the ID in his hand. Reba nodded and smiled, revealing her braces.

    ¡°Wait here,¡± said the security guard, then went inside his office to call Nancy.

    A few minutester, Nancy arrived. She was a middle¨Caged woman with ginger¨Ccolored hair. ¡°Marianne?¡± she looked at Reba, frowning.

    Reba nodded quickly.

    ¡°Follow me,¡± said Nancy, without asking any further questions. Reba clenched her cold, sweaty hands and followed Nancy to the servante¡® ~¡ª

    13.27 Thu, Aug 15 MW

    from the main mansion. As she looked around, her stomach churned. She knew every inch of that mansion, and being there as someone else gave her a strange feeling as if she were finally seeing the ce from a third¨Cperson perspective.

    ¡°I need a daily maid for three months because one of our regr maids is on maternity leave. Here are your duties, read them carefully,¡± said Nancy, handing Reba a piece of paper, which she read thoroughly because she didn¡¯t want to make any mistakes that would get her fired before her mission wasplete.

    ¡°Let me show you around,¡± Nancy said after Reba signed the work agreement.

    ¡°You¡¯ll only be cleaning themon areas. All private areas, including bedrooms and the library, are off¨Climits. Any questions?¡±

    Reba quickly typed on her speech¨Cto¨Ctext device, asking, ¡°How many Specter family members live here?¡±

    Nancy pointed to a family photo on the wall, and Reba¡¯s stomach churned as her face was no longer there.

    ¡°Currently, only Victoria Specter and Mia Specter are at home. Mr. Specter Sr. is still on vacation in Switzend, and Harvey Specter now lives in Manhattan with his wife, Alicia Specter,¡± Nancy quickly replied.

    Reba nodded, knowing that her task was to find out where Victoria was hiding Harvey¡¯s biological mother and why Harvey was so powerless to stand up to her.

    ¡°You can start now. Get your cleaning supplies from the broom closet,¡± Nancy said before leaving.

    Reba hurried to the broom closet, gathered her cleaning supplies, and returned to the mansion, quickly cleaning the living room. Suddenly, she heard footsteps approaching, followed by a very familiar scent of perfume. She nced back, and her hunch was correct¨CVictoria was standing not far from her, busy checking messages on her phone.

    Her chest tightened as seeing that obnoxious face triggered memories of all the terrible things Victoria had done to her.

    As usual, Victoria ignored the maids around her. She paid no attention to Reba, who was standing just a few feet away. Soon after, Reba heard Victoria¡¯s phone ringing.

    ¡°Have you found that bitch? Are you sure she¡¯s really gone?¡±

    <b>3/4 </b>

    ¨C 1327 Thu Aug 1, 20

    Reba straightened up, she knew exactly whom Victoria was talking about.

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 BIT 103

    <b>Chapter </b>103

    ¡°Find her! And find out if Harvey is involved in all of this!¡± Victoria hissed, her words clear in Reba¡¯s ears.

    ¡°You!¡±

    Reba swallowed hard and turned around. In front of her, Victoria stood with an irritated expression. ¡°Who are you?¡± she asked, frowning at Reba.

    Reba quickly pulled out the chat gadget from her apron pocket and typed something rapidly, her hands trembling with anger towards Victoria.

    ¡°I¡¯m Marianne, the new daily maid recing the one on maternity leave, Ma¡¯am. I¡¯m

    but I can hear perfectly well.¡± She showed the chat gadget screen to Victoria without looking directly at her, fearing that Victoria might recognize her eyes.

    mute,

    ¡°Whatever, make me some tea!¡± Victoria ordered as she flopped down on the sofa.

    Reba nodded and hurried to the nearest pantry to make peppermint tea with honey on the side for Victoria.

    ¡°How do you know she likes peppermint tea?¡±

    Suddenly, Nancy appeared behind her, startling her so much that she nearly dropped the spoon in her hand. She quickly typed on her chat gadget, ¡°She mentioned it before.¡± Of course, it was a lie.

    ¡°Really? She rarely does that,¡± Nancy muttered, puzzled.

    Reba quickly picked up the tray and carried it to the table in the living room where Victoria was busy talking on the phone.

    ¡°Alicia, you need to find out where that whore is, or all our ns will be in vain! What if Harvey is behind their disappearance? You need to bring Harvey here! I have to make sure he¡¯s still under our control!¡±

    If Reba followed her instincts, she would have poured the hot tea over Victoria¡¯s head, but of course, she didn¡¯t. She knelt on the floor, ced the teacup on the table in front of Victoria, and then quickly returned to cleaning the floor in that room. She hoped to stay close to Victoria to gather as much information as possible.

    ¡°NANCY!¡± Victoria shouted. Reba looked up in surprise, ncing towards the

    Thu Aud 1

    hallway where she saw Nancy rushing over to Victoria.

    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am!¡± Nancy replied, kneeling before Victoria. Reba snorted; she had never liked Nancy, who had always been a hypocritical sycophant.

    Victoria leaned in closer to Nancy and whispered something. Reba strained to eavesdrop, but she couldn¡¯t hear anything. She only saw Nancy nodding and saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ma¡¯am, leave it to me.¡±

    Reba watched Nancy hurriedly leave the living room and head towards the exit. She wanted to follow her, but her work wasn¡¯t done yet.

    Suddenly, she heard footstepsing from the stairs. She was tempted to look up, but she restrained herself, not wanting to appear suspicious.

    ¡°Mom! Mom!¡±

    Reba gripped the carpet brush tightly in her hand. It was Mia¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you stop yelling!¡± Victoria snapped.

    ¡°Oh shit! I heard from Alicia, that Becky ran away from Sean Parker. Is that true? Do you think Harvey told her to run away? Or maybe she just wanted to leave, I mean, you know the rumors that Sean is a psychopath who used to beat his ex¨Cwife,¡± Mia babbled

    <ol>

    <li>on<b>. </b></li>

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    Reba swallowed hard. She kept her head down, staring at the carpet, brushing it quickly, channeling her emotions.

    ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t know! They¡¯re still trying to figure it out! Call your father and make sure he stays in Switzend for a long time. I don¡¯t care if you have to follow him there, I don¡¯t want him to be here until all set!¡± Victoria muttered as she sipped her peppermint tea.

    Mia sneered. ¡°Can¡¯t we just do something to get Harvey to sign the asset transfer papers

    now<b>?</b><b>¡± </b>

    ¡°If we could do that now, I wouldn¡¯t have to bother locking that crazy person in the basement! You¡¯re so stupid! Come on,e with me!¡± Victoria stood up and quickly walked towards the front door, with Miazily following behind.

    Reba covered her mouth in shock. ¡°Locking that crazy person in the basement? Is Victoria talking about Harvey¡¯s birth mother?¡± she murmured silently.

    <b>Rawalpindi</b><b>: </b><b>Optical </b><b>Emission </b><b>Spectrometers </b>That <b>Cut </b><b>Business </b><b>Costs </b>

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    As she finished her work, Reba¡¯s mind raced, trying to figure out how to see who Victoria had locked in the mansion¡¯s basement. While she was cating lunch alone in the servants¡® kitchen, Nancy suddenly appeared, sweating as if she had just finished doing something strenuous.

    ¡®Did you have lunch?¡® Reba asked through her chat gadget, knowing she had to humble herself before Nancy for the sess of her mission.

    ¡°Of course not yet! Shit, my clothes are covered in spit! That damn bitch!¡± Nancy cursed as she took off her apron and angrily threw it on the floor.

    Reba gripped her spoon tightly. What if her suspicion was correct, and the person locked in the basement was Harvey¡¯s birth mother?

    Her mind filled with gruesome images of what might be happening to Harvey¡¯s birth mother, and her hunger vanished. She couldn¡¯t even bring herself to swallow her lunch.

    ¡°Marianne!¡±

    Reba immediately turned towards Nancy, almost making a sound, but she quickly remembered she was pretending to be mute.

    ¡°Go see Margareth and help her clean Mr. Specter¡¯s bedroom, I mean Harvey Specter¡¯s. I¡¯m not in the mood.¡± Nancy said curtly.

    Reba nodded, lifted her still¨Cfull te to the sink, and washed it quickly as Nancy watched her without blinking.

    ¡®What did she say? Harvey¡¯s room?¡® Reba thought to herself. She didn¡¯t know whether to be happy or sad because returning to that room reminded her of many things that happened during the first three years of her marriage to Harvey.

    ¡°I¡¯m busy! You clean it yourself and report to me when you¡¯re done!¡± Margareth replied when Reba told her that Nancy had asked her to clean Harvey Specter¡¯s room.

    Reba struggled to keep from smiling. She nodded twice and then left Margareth, who was enjoying a cigarette under arge tree that covered the CCTV.

    ¡°Hey, mute girl! Do you even know where Mr Specter¡¯s room is?¡± Margareth yelled with a frown.

    Reba swallowed hard, fearing her disguise would be uncovered. She shook her head with a grimace.

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    Margareth scoffed, ¡°Idiot! It¡¯s on the second floor, at the very end! Don¡¯t go into the wrong room, or you¡¯ll know the consequences,¡± she said, trying to scare Reba.

    Reba nodded and quickly walked towards the main building and up to the second floor. As she walked through every inch of the second floor in that mansion, a suffocating sensation filled her chest, and tears fell from her eyes without her realizing it. She slowly opened Harvey¡¯s bedroom door and was shocked to find a man standing near the window, his back to her.

    ******

 BIT 104

    Reba recognized that back all too well-the back she used to lean her head on whenever she felt sad. She wiped away the tears threatening to fall.

    ¡°Are you the new maid?¡±

    Reba almost dropped the sheets in her hands from shock. She looked up and saw Harvey turning to her with a nk expression. She swallowed hard and nodded twice. Quickly, she pulled out the chat gadget from her apron and typed:

    ¡®Nancy sent me to change the sheets. Should Ie backter, or am I allowed to do it now?¡¯

    Harvey frowned. ¡°You¡¯re mute?¡± he asked, confused.

    Reba nodded, doing her best to avoid Harvey¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Just do it; I¡¯ll wait here,¡± Harvey said, turning his face back to the window. Reba let out a sigh of relief. It seemed Harvey didn¡¯t recognize her, which meant her disguise was perfect.

    She quickly moved to the bed and began removing the pillowcases. Secretly, she observed Harvey, who was still in the same position, silently staring out the window.

    A momentter, Harvey¡¯s phone buzzed.

    ¡°Mia, tell your mother that if she wants to mess with me, I¡¯ll be more than happy to y along!¡± Harvey snapped, his voice so loud that Reba flinched. She could see Harvey¡¯s body trembling with anger.

    ¡°Harvey! What the hell! Why did you leave me like that? The media will definitely write all kinds of crazy stories about us now!¡± Suddenly, a voice that Reba hated with every fiber of her being came from the doorway.

    Reba nced over and saw Alicia entering the room in her red stilettos. If she followed her intrusive thoughts, she would¡¯ve already run over and punched Alicia in the face, but she still had enough sense to simply nod politely and focus back on the pillows on the bed.

    Harvey sighed deeply. ¡°Can you stop pretending like we¡¯re real?¡± he said, exhausted. Hearing Harvey¡¯s words gave Reba a strange sensation in her stomach.

    ¡°We are real! And remember, I¡¯m pregnant!¡± Alicia snapped, caressing her t stomach.

    Reba clenched the pillowcase tightly, hearing about Alicia¡¯s pregnancy still made her joints ache.

    Finally, Harvey turned to Alicia, and Reba could see the anger on his face.

    ¡°No, you¡¯re not. I never touched you, and we both know it, so stop talking nonsense! You might be able to fool everyone else, but not me,¡± Harvey said, ring at Alicia.

    Reba felt a wave of relief, as if cool water had just washed over her burning chest. She had always thought

    11 Fan Alisin hut now she realized he hadn¡¯t lied when he said everything he did was because

    TAM PREGNANT? You might not remember because you were so drunk, but we spent a passionate night together, and I believe this baby is the result of that night,¡± Alicia said, showing a photo of a pregnancy test on her phone with a triumphant smile.

    Harvey scoffed, ¡°Bullsh

    I don¡¯t believe anything thates out of your mouth anymore. I can¡¯t believe I ever had feelings for someone like you. Well, enjoy this fake marriage because once I find my mother, you¡¯ll pay for everything you¡¯ve done to me,¡± he said, shaking his head in disbelief, then turned to look at Reba.

    Reba immediately lowered her head, busy stripping the tripleyered sheets with practiced efficiency. Her face remained impassive, as if she didn¡¯t care about the argument between Harvey and Alicia.

    Alicia opened a drawer, pulled out something that looked like a razor de, and raised her wrist as if she intended to hurt herself. ¡°Say that again, and you¡¯ll see me bleed out she threatened, walking toward Harvey.

    ¡°Say it again, Harvey, and live with the guilt for the rest of your life!¡± Alicia screamed, her eyes bulging and her face turning red.

    ¡°Excuse me, could you please leave and change the sheetster? Thank you,¡± Harvey said to Reba.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Reba cursed silently, but she had no choice but to nod. She hugged the dirty sheets to her chest and quickly exited the room. She could still hear Harvey saying, ¡°Put down that damn razor!¡±

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Suddenly, Margareth appeared, eyeing Reba standing outside Harvey¡¯s door with a frown.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°They¡¯re fighting,¡± Reba answered using her chat gadget.

    Margareth clicked her tongue. ¡°Damn it, Victoria told me to call them. Should I knock, or should I wait until they stop arguing?¡± she muttered to herself.

    Reba didn¡¯t react but hoped Margareth would be brave enough to knock because the show wasn¡¯t over yet. ¡°Oh, whatever! I¡¯ll just knock!¡±

    Margareth stood in front of the door, nudging Reba aside with her broad shoulder. After clearing her throat a few times, she knocked twice. ¡°Excuse me, Mr. Specter, sir? Your mother is waiting for you in the library,¡± she half- shouted to ensure Harvey could hear her.

    Not long after, the door opened, and Harvey emerged, looking annoyed. He didn¡¯t say anything and headed straight for the stairs, with Alicia half-running after him.

    ¡°Take those sheets to theundry room. I¡¯ll finish the rest,¡± Margareth said as she entered Harvey¡¯s room. Reba nodded and quickly headed downstairs. She racked her brain, trying to figure out how to eavesdrop on their conversation in the library, but she couldn¡¯t find a way. She watched Harvey and Alicia¡¯s backs, wondering if Alicia was really pregnant.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Reba turned and saw Nancy standing nearby with a tray in her hands.

    Reba shook her head. She looked at Nancy¡¯s clothes, stained with something, and suddenly, a brilliant idea

    ¦¨

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    mend her mind the more closet to Nancy, wrinkled hef note, and rubbed it, making Nancy look at her in

    Giusion

    Red quickly ryped on her chat gadget, I can smell something unpleasanting from you!

    Nancy & eyes widened in shock. She sniffed her clothes uncertainly. ¡°Damn it! Take this to the library! I¡¯ll tell Madam that I went you?¡± she blurted out, thrusting the tray at Reba, who quickly exchanged it for the dirty sheets from Harvey¡¯s room.

    After taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, Reba opened the library door and stepped inside.

    ¡°I swear to God, I had nothing to do with Becky¡¯s disappearance!¡± Harvey shouted.

    Reba stopped in her tracks, gripping the tray tightly.

    ¡°You better tell the truth, dear, or-¡±

    Reba saw Victoria show something on her phone to Harvey, who instantly turned pale.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do that to her! I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to change the inheritance terms so I don¡¯t have to wait until I¡¯m forty. Please, let my mother go! Tell me where she is?¡±

    Reba frowned. Did she hear that right?

    É«

 BIT 105

    Suddenly, Victoria turned to Reba with wide eyes, ¡°Who allowed you toe in here?!¡± she shouted in surprise.

    Reba jumped, nearly spilling the tray of tea in her hands. She almost spoke but quickly remembered that she was pretending to be mute. Nervously, she ced the tea tray on the table and reached into her apron to pull out a chat gadget, but Victoria pushed her hard, causing her to fall to the floor.

    ¡°JUST GET OUT OF HERE!¡±

    ¡°What the hell are you doing? She¡¯s just doing her job!¡± shouted Harvey as he quickly walked over to Reba and helped her up.

    When Harvey¡¯s hand touched her skin, Reba felt her heart racing so fast that she feared everyone could hear it.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Harvey asked.

    Reba hurriedly looked down. Harvey must not see into her eyes, or her disguise would be revealed. She quickly pulled her arm away from Harvey and walked quickly out of the library.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Shit! I should have been able to hear more,¡± she muttered silently. As she walked back to theundry room, she thought about Harvey¡¯s words.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to change the inheritance terms so I don¡¯t have to wait until I¡¯m forty, what was that supposed to mean?¡±

    ¡°Marianne! Finish all theundry before you end your shift,¡± shouted Margareth, who had just appeared from the stairs, as if she had just finished putting sheets on Harvey¡¯s bed.

    Reba nodded as she followed Margareth down the hallway toward the back door. ¡°Has Nancy told you about the forbidden basement?¡± Margareth muttered, making Reba turn in surprise.

    Reba shook her head, looking at Margareth with curiosity.

    Margareth snorted, ¡°Victoria forbids anyone from going down to the basement except Nancy and Mia. D**n! I don¡¯t know what they¡¯re hiding down there!¡± she eximed angrily.

    Reba stared in shock; her instincts could not be wrong. Victoria must be hiding Harvey¡¯s biological mother in the basement of this mansion-it¡¯s utterly ridiculous.

    ¡°If you want to sneak into the basement and peek at what¡¯s down there, I¡¯ll give you my sry shoes,¡± Margareth whispered with a raised eyebrow and a smile.

    Reba just grimaced. Of course, she would sneak down there, but she had to wait for the right time because doing it without a solid n would be futile.

    Reba stood ironing clothes for nearly two hours and managed to finish all her work by four in the afternoon. She had just exited theundry room when she saw Nancy walking quickly toward the storage room, carrying a bottle of drinking water

    and a basket of bread.

    ¡°It¡¯s the storage basement, not the main building basement! No wonder Harvey didn¡¯t know about this,¡± Reba muttered. She clenched her fists and walked toward the maid¡¯s room instead of following Nancy; at least she now knew where they were keeping Harvey¡¯s mother.

    After changing her clothes, Reba walked to the main gate while looking around therge mansion, reminiscing about her

    luna

    +37%

    past there. As she passed a sunall sitting garden under a shady tree, she identally saw Alicia sitting there, with her back to

    her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever dare to show up! And don¡¯t try to threaten me! I can get rid of you easily; there are plenty of pregnant women who need money out there, I just need to choose one!¡±

    Reba stared in shock at Alicia¡¯s words to someone on the phone. Harvey was not lying when he said he never touched Alicia-not after he truly married Reba. Finally, one by one, everything was being revealed.

    A few minutester,

    ¡°Look who¡¯s back!¡±

    Reba smiled upon seeing Susan holding Lily while watching TV.

    ¡°Oh, Susan! I owe you my life! I¡¯ll clean up and be back as soon as possible!¡± Reba eximed as she ran to her room and returned with clean clothes seven minutester.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to rush; I¡¯m really enjoying my time with Rosie, said Susan when she saw Rebae back hurriedly.

    Reba grimaced, ¡°How could I do that to you? You should be able to rest enough, you know what? I¡¯ll put Rose to sleep for a bit and thene back to cook dinner,¡± she said as she took Lily from Susan¡¯s hands.

    Susan snorted,

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother cooking; we can heat up yesterday¡¯ssagna. Well, I have to go to Magda¡¯s house for a bit to drop something off,¡± she said cheerfully.

    After Susan left, Reba quickly called Max and told him all her findings in the mansion.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll find out why Harvey has to wait until he¡¯s 40 to pass on his inheritance and, of course, about Alicia¡¯s fake pregnancy,¡± Max said quickly.

    ¡°Great! Um, about Sean¡­¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s looking for you, and I could tell he looked really furious, so your decision to leave him is the best one.¡±

    Reba sighed deeply; something was bothering her chest. ¡°Thank you, Max.¡±

    The next morning, while Reba was preparing breakfast, her phone suddenly vibrated-a call from Max. She nced at Susan and found her busy cleaning the garden.

    ¡°Max? Any update?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, Harvey¡¯ste grandfather made a stiption that before Harvey turns forty, he cannot pass on his inheritance to anyone; well, I guess he anticipated something like this happening,¡± Max said, his tone firm and cold as usual.

    Reba was taken aback; she nodded while her eyes kept watching Susan from afar.

    ¡°Does Victoria intend to lock Harvey¡¯s biological mother for five years? I mean, Harvey is 35 now,¡± she muttered with a

    furrowed brow.

    ¡°If that¡¯s necessary, that¡¯s why she got rid of you and Lily. Harvey has to be with Alicia because she¡¯s easy to control.¡± Reba rubbed her face,

    7 13:27 Sat, Aug 17

    +37%

    ¡°I wonder why Harvey didn¡¯t involve the police; I mean, he could have recorded his conversation with Victoria and told the police the truth,¡± she said impatiently.

    Max paused for a moment and then cleared his throat,

    ¡°If you were Victoria, what would you do if you knew Harvey reported your actions to the police?¡± he asked tly.

    Reba frowned, trying to imagine herself as Victoria.

    ¡°If I were Victoria and found out that Harvey involved the police, I would kill Harvey¡¯s mother before he met her and make him regret it for the rest of his life,¡± she said slowly, shocked by her own words.

    ¡°**t! I understand now¡­¡±

 BIT 106

    ¡°Marianne! Over here!¡± Margareth called out as she saw Reba emerge from the gate.

    Reba half-ran toward Margareth, smiling broadly, revealing her braces.

    ¡°The gardener couldn¡¯t make it today, but the dry leaves are already piling up in the garden, so-¡± Margareth handed Reba a leaf rake, raising one eyebrow high.

    Reba nodded, took the rake, and quickly walked toward the garden. As she cleared the leaves, she thought about how she could free Harvey¡¯s mother. But suddenly, someone tapped her shoulder, making her gasp in surprise. She turned around and found Harvey standing behind her.

    ¡°You dropped this,¡± Harvey said, holding out a phone toward her

    Reba stared in shock, feeling her apron and swallowing nervously when she realized there was arge hole in it. Luckily, her chat gadget was still there. She quickly grabbed the phone from Harvey, relieved she had turned it off before entering the mansion.

    ¡°Thank you, sir,¡¯ she typed quickly on her chat gadget.

    ¡°Never mind,¡± Harvey replied tly, but his eyes remained fixed on Reba¡¯s face. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± he asked, frowning.

    ¡®Marianne, sir,¡¯ Reba typed with trembling hands.

    Harvey nodded. ¡°You remind me of someone, he murmured, turning away and walking back through the garden, his face full of questions.

    Suddenly, a brilliant idea popped into Reba¡¯s head. She nced at Harvey, who was sitting under a tree, then continued pretending to gather leaves until she was close to him. After making sure she was hidden from the CCTV, she quickly typed on her chat gadget and showed it to Harvey.

    ¡®I heard crying from the basement of the shed, but no one answered when I asked mansion, sir? Please be honest because I have a bad history with the paranormal.¡¯

    hat it was. Is there a ghost in this

    Harvey snorted withughter, looking up at Reba. ¡°A ghost? Nonsense, there¡¯s no such thing here,¡± he replied, handing the chat gadget back to Reba.

    Reba quickly typed again,

    ¡®But yesterday, the sound was very clear, and I saw Nancy bringing bread and drinks down there. Does your family keep something scary?¡¯

    Harvey wasn¡¯tughing anymore. He looked at the chat gadget screen se

    ¡°Are you sure about this?¡± he asked tensely.

    then looked up at Reba.

    Reba kept her expression neutral, nodded her head, then typed again. ¡®You don¡¯t know about this? Better not go there! If they find out you heard it from me, they might fire me!¡¯

    Harvey stood up and patted Reba¡¯s shoulder gently. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that,¡± he said, then walked away, leaving Reba standing with trembling knees.

    ¡°This is it, it has to end here. I won¡¯t let Victoria and Alicia win,¡± Reba muttered as she watched Harvey¡¯s back recede. She was sure Harvey knew what he needed to do.

    ¡°Marianne! Are you finished?¡± Nancy shouted from a distance.

    Reba moved away from-the tall tree that had hidden her and shook her head.

    ¡°Hurry up

    and clean Madam Victoria¡¯s room, I have something I need to do!¡± Nancy yelled. Reba nodded, quickly gathered the dry leaves, and put them into a sack.

    %

    As Reba was about to clean her hands in the maid¡¯s room, she saw Nancy washing her blood-covered hands. She stared in shock, then tapped Nancy¡¯s shoulder twice with a questioning look.

    Nancy turned around, surprised. ¡°This isn¡¯t my blood,¡± she said, swallowing nervously. Reba frowned, confused.

    ¡°Um, it¡¯s Ronan¡¯s blood, you know Madam Victoria¡¯s dog? He got hurt,¡± she quickly said, as if covering something up.

    Reba just nodded, not asking further. She hurriedly washed her hands, then packed the cleaning tools into a box and carried it into the mansion.

    At the entrance to the main building, she saw Ronan, Victoria¡¯s Siberian Husky, sleeping soundly. She frowned, seeing no sign of injury on Ronan, and her stomach dropped instantly. ¡°Shit! Harvey¡¯s mother?¡±

    She turned around, staring toward the shed in the distance, wondering if Harvey took her words seriously.N?velDrama.Org ? content.

    ¡°Are you going to stand there all day?¡± Victoria snapped, suddenly appearing behind her. Reba nearly jumped in surprise, swallowing hard before half-bowing as she passed by Victoria, who was still ring at her.

    ¡°Wait!¡± Victoria shouted.

    Reba closed her eyes, fearing her disguise had been discovered. She turned around, keeping her eyes on the floor, avoiding Victoria¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Whatever you see and hear in this house is none of your business, understand?!¡± she hissed, her eyes shing.

    Reba nodded twice, timidly, trying to look like a maid who desperately needed the job.

    ¡°Okay, go!¡±

    Reba half-ran up the stairs toward Victoria¡¯s room, which was opposite Harvey¡¯s room. She carefully entered, looking around, hoping to find something she could use against Victoria, but everything was too clean and empty. Victoria must have been

    very cautious.

    Reba quickly cleaned every corner of Victoria¡¯s room. While wiping down the walk-in closet door, she noticed an envelope sticking out from under a pile of nightgowns.

    After checking around and ensuring there were no CCTVs, she lifted the pile of clothes and found several envelopes. Curiously, she opened one and quickly read it.

    Victoria,

    You must get me out of prison immediately! I don¡¯t care how bad our rtionship is, I¡¯m still your twin!

    The letter was long, but what shocked Reba was the ending; Your Twin, Victor.

    ¡°Shit! So Victor is Victoria¡¯s twin, that¡¯s why he¡¯s working with Nichs. My God, this is really messed up,¡± she muttered, quickly folding the letter and putting it back in its ce.

    Suddenly, she felt anxious, afraid Harvey might make the wrong decision. She hurriedly finished her work and ran down the stairs. But when she saw Victoria and Alicia talking quietly, she stopped and walked slowly, eavesdropping.

    ¡°Harvey¡¯s been searching for something in the shed all day. Do you think he knows we locked his mother in the bottom basement?¡± Alicia asked, worried.

    14:38 Sun, Aug 18 RR G

    +0/%

    Victoria shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. If he knew, he would have gone straight to the basement. Besides, there are four armed guards down there; he wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything.¡±

    Alicia sighed deeply, ¡°Still, I think you should move his mother to a safer ce,¡± she said, fiddling with her fake nails.

    Victoria was silent, then nodded, ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right,¡± she said, unaware that Reba was eavesdropping from the stairs above.

    Reba was torn about how to inform Harvey of everything. She walked out of the main building, keeping her eyes on the shed, and as if the universe was on her side, Harvey suddenly walked out, holding something in his hand.

    Reba watched from afar; she had no other choice but to confess to Harvey and n his mother¡¯s rescue perfectly before Victoria moved her to a ce that might be harder to find.

    Reba deliberately slowed her pace so she could cross paths with Harvey before he turned toward the maid¡¯s room. When they were ten feet apart, she purposely threw herself to the ground.

    Harvey frowned in surprise and hurried over to her. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, helping Reba to her feet.

    ¡°Harvey, listen! It¡¯s me, Becky! Your mother is in the basement of the shed, there are four armed guards guarding her. Victoria is nning to move her somewhere else, so we have to rescue her tonight. Call Max; he¡¯ll know what to do!¡±

    Harvey stared at her, shocked.

    ?

 BIT 107

    Reba quickly got up and walked toward the maid¡¯s room, leaving Harvey standing in ce with a shocked expression. She was just about to take out her phone when Nancy suddenly entered with a sullen face.

    ¡°What¡¯s that smell?¡± Reba asked with her chat gadget as she caught a whiff of something fouling from Nancy. She nced at Nancy¡¯s clothes and was surprised to see brown stains on them.

    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t poop my pants, okay? It¡¯s that crazy old woman¡¯s doing!¡± Nancy grumbled irritably.

    Reba frowned, giving Nancy a look that said, ¡°What crazy old woman?¡± which made Nancy quickly realize her mistake. She covered her mouth with both hands.

    ¡°Forget whatever I just told you!¡± Nancy snapped in a panic. She rushed into the bathroom, muttering incoherently.

    Reba frowned, imagining Harvey¡¯s mother deliberately soiling Nancy¡¯s clothes when she tried to approach her. She shuddered in horror, realizing they must be treating her very poorly-these people were truly wicked!

    As she checked her phone, she suddenly received a message from Max.

    ¡®Becky, you need to act normal as usual, don¡¯t leave early or they¡¯ll get suspicious. We¡¯re going to free Harvey¡¯s mother soon.

    Reba swallowed nervously, her heart pounding with excitement.

    ¡°Marianne, take this to Alicia¡¯s room,¡± Margareth suddenly appeared at the entrance, holding out an expensive khaki suit.

    Reba gulped. After her sudden confession earlier, she wasn¡¯t ready to run into Harvey, but she still took the khaki suit and stood up to head toward Alicia and Harvey¡¯s room.

    With heavy steps, she climbed the stairs to their room and knocked softly.

    ¡°Who is it?!¡± Alicia shouted. Reba wanted to answer but immediately remembered that she was pretending to be mute, so she kept her mouth shut.

    ¡°WHO IS IT?¡± Alicia shouted even louder. Reba was typing on her chat gadget when the door suddenly opened, and Alicia appeared with an annoyed look.

    ¡°Are you deaf?!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s mute, could you stop being so rude to the maids?¡± Harvey interjected from inside the room, making Reba¡¯s heart race even faster.

    Alicia huffed in annoyance. She red at Reba, then s**d the khaki suit from her hands. ¡°I spilled my nail polish in the bathroom, clean it up until the stain is gone!¡± she ordered harshly

    14:24 Mon, Aug 19 G G B.

    +49%

    Reba nodded. Nervously, she entered the room and crossed paths with Harvey, who was sitting calmly as if he knew what he had to do.

    Harvey looked at her deeply but said nothing. Thest thing they wanted was to jeopardize the mission they were going to carry out that day.

    Reba quickly cleaned Alicia¡¯s bathroom, removing the blue nail polish stains sc**ed all over the floor. Fifteen minutester, as she was about to leave the bathroom, she heard Harvey talking on the phone.

    ¡°Let them in, Victoria! They¡¯re from the office; I have to hold an impromptu meeting here because you won¡¯t let me leave!¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba frowned but quickly realized that the ¡°people from the office¡± Harvey mentioned were probably Max¡¯s men. After taking a deep breath, she walked out of the bathroom, and once again, her eyes met Harvey¡¯s. She could see him giving a subtle nod in her direction, as if confirming her thoughts.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Alicia asked, already dressed in her khaki suit. ¡°Nothing,¡± Harvey replied tly. ¡°I¡¯m going to Manhattan; I have something to take care of,¡± Alicia said as she slipped one of her diamond rings onto her finger.

    ¡°Whatever, I have work to do,¡± Harvey responded, then walked out, following Reba, who had already left the room.

    ¡°Wait for me! Let¡¯s go down together!¡± Alicia called out, clinging yfully to Harvey¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Get off me! I¡¯m not in a good mood, so don¡¯t start, okay?¡± Harvey snapped irritably. In front of them, Reba swallowed nervously, stepping aside to let them pass. As they walked by, Harvey ignored her, and Reba understood why.

    ¡°Hi, thank you foring!¡± Harvey greeted about eight men in sharp suits who had just entered through the front door. Reba nced at all of them and saw Max among them. She felt both relieved and fearful, unable to imagine what might happen.

    ¡°Let¡¯s have a meeting in the library,¡± Harvey said with a stiff smile.

    Victoria red at him. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯t use the library, Harvey,¡± she interjected with a tense smile.

    Harvey frowned.

    ¡°I don¡¯t see any otherfortable ce; you can join us if you want,¡± he said, shrugging, Victoria red at him sharply. ¡°You probably think I¡¯d refuse, right? But unfortunately for you, I dly ept the invitation. Let¡¯s start the meeting, shall we?¡± she said in a forced cheerful tone.

    Reba bowed slightly, slipping past them while keeping an eye on Alicia, who seemed indifferent to everything happening around her. She watched as Alicia leisurely walked toward the front of the mansion and waved at her driver, who was already waiting.

    14:24 Mon, Aug 19 G GB¡¤

    ¡°Alicia¡¯s

    gone,

    49%

    Victoria is in there, but where¡¯s Mia?¡± Reba muttered to herself as she continued walking away, but suddenly-

    ¡°You!¡± It was Harvey¡¯s voice.

    Reba turned and found Harvey staring at her. She pointed to herself with her right hand, making sure Harvey was calling her.

    Harvey nodded.

    ¡°Please prepare drinks and snacks for us and call Mia. Doesn¡¯t she need to attend the meeting so she can be relied upon when she bes CEO someday? I don¡¯t want thispany to go bankrupt and cause trouble for all its employees,¡± he said, looking tiredly at Victoria.

    Victoria scoffed but couldn¡¯t hide her smile. ¡°I¡¯ll call her,¡± she said, waving her hand to signal Reba to go.

    As Reba walked toward the maid¡¯s room, she felt her phone vibrate. She quickly opened it and found a message from Max.

    Ñ¡

    ¡°Tell Nancy and Margareth that Victoria wants them to bring the drinks and snacks to the library, and you, stay in the maid¡¯s room until it¡¯s safe.¡±

    Reba followed all of Max¡¯s instructions and sat in the maid¡¯s room anxiously. About fifteen minutes after Nancy and Margareth went to the library, she suddenly saw Max, Harvey, and four other men running out of the main building from a distance.

    She quickly ran out of the maid¡¯s room to meet them. ¡°Are we going to do it now?¡± she asked, tense

    Suddenly Harvey took her hand and hugged her tightly, ¡°I owed you my life, Becky.¡±

    ****

 BIT 108

    ¡°Yes, Becky. We¡¯ve tied them all up in the library, and the police are just ten minutes away; they¡¯ll be here soon,¡± Harvey said as he released her from his embrace.

    ¡°Becky, take this to the guards in the basement. Tell them Nancy sent you to bring them this bread,¡± Max said, handing Reba a bag of croissants. She frowned in confusion.

    ¡°Max put a sedative in the chocte cream filling. It¡¯ll be easier to do everything once they¡¯re unconscious. I¡¯m afraid we might identally hurt my mother if we have to storm in with weapons,¡± Harvey exined, understanding the question in Reba¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Reba said, nodding.

    As Reba was about to head toward the basement, Harvey suddenly grabbed her hand and hugged her once more. ¡°Thank you. We¡¯ll be just a few steps behind you,¡± Harvey whispered, his voice tight with emotion. Reba cleared her throat and nodded, giving him a weak smile.

    Reba pulled away from Harvey and quickly made her way into the basement, a ce she had never been before. The basement wasrge enough to hold about ten cars. She descended to the first basement level and saw nothing out of the ordinary. She continued down to the second basement level and still found nothing. Nervously, she went down to the third and final basement level and still didn¡¯t see the guards.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.

    Just as she was about to give up out of fear, she noticed arge cab with a door. With trepidation, she opened the cab door and as she suspected, the cab led to another corner of the third basement. She found a long, dark, and musty corridor. She looked back, and even though she couldn¡¯t see them, she was sure Harvey, Max, and the others were behind

    her.

    She halted when she heard the sound of people chatting. Nervously, she knocked on the wooden wall, causing the four guards who had been chatting to turn toward her. They stared at her with furrowed brows.

    Reba quickly pulled out hermunication device and typed a message.

    ¡®Nancy sent me to bring this to you because she¡¯s busy helping Mrs. Specter in the library. I¡¯m mute and deaf, so I can¡¯t hear anything.¡¯

    She showed the message to one of the guards, who quickly read it. ¡°Smells good!¡± one of the guards eximed, snatching the bag of bread from Reba¡¯s hands.

    Reba nodded politely, then turned and walked away. She didn¡¯t see where Harvey¡¯s mother was being held, and she didn¡¯t look back even once. However, from the sounds the guards made, she knew they were eagerly devouring the chocte croissants.

    Reba exited the old cab door into the third basement and bumped into Harvey, Max, and two others. Max put a finger to his lips, signaling Reba to stay quiet.

    ¡°We¡¯ll wait three minutes,¡± Max whispered, listening intently to the faint sounds behind the cab door.

    Reba stood nervously beside Harvey, who suddenly gripped her hand tightly. She felt a mix of emotions that made her heart race and her stomach churn at the same time.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Max said, nodding to Harvey and the others. He opened the cab door and led them down the corridor to where Harvey¡¯s mother was being held.

    You did it, Becky,¡± Max said, stopping in his tracks.

    Reba peeked around Harvey¡¯s shoulder and saw the four guards asleep on the floor, their mouths smeared with chocte.

    11:47 Tue, Aug 20 E RR.

    ¡°Tie them up,¡± Max ordered two of his men.

    ¡°Mom? Where are you?¡± Harvey called out, panicking when he didn¡¯t see his mother around.

    +73%

    Reba sniffed, following the foul odor she had smelled on Nancy¡¯s body. She stopped when she realized the smell wasing from beneath her feet. She crouched down and pressed her ear to the wooden floor, gasping when she heard faint sobs.

    ¡°Harvey, over here!¡±

    Harvey turned to her, and he and Max hurried over to Reba. Is there a fourth basement?¡± Max asked, pressing his ear to the floor like Reba.

    Harvey shook his head nervously. ¡°I never knew about this basement,¡± he said, tapping and feeling around the wooden floor. identally, he pressed something that caused the floor to give way.

    Reba turned on the shlight on her phone and pointed it down into the pitch-ck space below. ¡°There¡¯s adder,¡± she said, her voice trembling. Even before seeing Harvey¡¯s mother, she could already imagine what they would find.

    Harvey hurried down thedder, followed by Reba and Max.

    The stench of excrement assaulted Reba¡¯s nose. She winced but restrained herself from covering her nose with her hand, afraid of offending Harvey.

    ¡°Oh my God!¡± Harvey whispered, causing Reba and Max to stop in their tracks.

    Reba peeked over Harvey¡¯s shoulder and saw a filthy 2¡Á2 iron cage. Inside, Harvey¡¯s mother was curled up, crying.

    Reba couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. They streamed down her cheeks as she realized the extent of Victoria¡¯s cruelty, all for the Specter family¡¯s inheritance. She watched with a heavy heart as Harvey quickly opened the cage door.

    ¡°How could she breathe down here? D**n, Victoria, she¡¯s a real devil!¡± Reba whispered, sobbing.

    Max pointed to a pipe in the corner of the cage, seemingly connected to the warehouse above, allowing air to flow from outside to the space below.

    ¡°Mom, you¡¯re safe now. It¡¯s me, Harvey¡­¡±

    Harvey¡¯s mother only cried louder, hitting Harvey¡¯s body, making Reba even sadder. Everything made sense now. She finally understood why Harvey had distanced himself from her and Lily and told them to go far away. He must not have wanted them to end up like his mother.

    With great difficulty, they carried Harvey¡¯s mother out of the hidden fourth basement and met the police, who had just arrived.

    Reba stepped out of the warehouse, feeling relieved as fresh air filled her lungs. ¡°Becky, Max will take you to the safe house. I have to take care of my mother. I promise I¡¯ll see you and Lily soon,¡± Harvey said, looking at Reba while holding his mother in his arms.

    Reba nodded, holding back her tears.

    ¡°I DIDN¡¯T DO WHAT YOU¡¯RE ACCUSING ME OF! THAT WOMAN WAS THERE WITHOUT MY KNOWLEDGE!¡± Victoria screamed as a policeman dragged her out of the mansion.

    Reba heard the shout, and her chest filled with burning anger. She quickly walked over to Victoria and delivered a hard p across her face, causing Victoria to stare in shock.

    ¡°What the-¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s for what you did to Harvey¡¯s mother,¡± Reba hissed a sessfully removed her wig, she could see the fury in Victori

    ¡°YOU!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s for what you did to Harvey¡¯s mother,¡± Reba hissed as she pulled off a furry mole from her face. And as she sessfully removed her wig,, she could see the fury in Victoria¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°YOU!¡±

 BIT 109

    ¡°Oh God, Marianne, what happened to you? Why has your face changed?¡± Susan stammered as she saw Reba appear at her door. Reba winced and scratched her neck, even though it didn¡¯t itch.

    of the smell on her body from

    ¡°I¡¯ll exin everything to you, but can I clean myself up first?¡± she asked, catching a whiff of the Harvey¡¯s mother.

    Susan nodded stiffly, too shocked by the significant change in Reba¡¯s appearance without the hairy mole and wig.

    Reba quickly cleaned herself up and returned to Susan in her true appearance. Susan stared in disbelief. ¡°I don¡¯t understand¡­¡±

    ¡°Susan, I¡¯m going to tell you everything¡­¡±

    ¡°You should have been honest with me from the start. There¡¯s no way I wouldn¡¯t support you. I trust Max, which means I trust you too,¡± Susan said after hearing Reba¡¯s story.

    Reba winced. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±

    ¡°So, Reba, huh? Not Marianne?¡± Susan quipped casually.

    Reba nodded. ¡°Yeah, thank you so much, Susan. I mean it,¡± she said, looking at Susan sincerely.

    Susan waved her hand dismissively. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything! So, what¡¯s next?¡± she asked

    curiously.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba took a deep breath. She still had to wait for news about Alicia and Sean, so she wasn¡¯t entirely sure what to do next.

    ¡°You can stay here as long as you like, you know that, right?¡± Susan said, noticing the confusion on Reba¡¯s face.

    Reba smiled. ¡°Thank you, Susan. I¡¯ll discuss the next steps with Harvey and Max.¡±

    That day, as per Max¡¯s instructions, Reba stayed at Susan¡¯s house. Ev

    Sean were still out there.

    though Victoria had been arrested, Alicia and

    Suddenly, she thought about what might happen if she ran into Sean. Maybe he¡¯d try to force her toe back or, worse, hurt her like he did his ex-wife, Maggie.

    e quickl

    That night, while she was rocking Lily, there was a knock at the door. peeked through the peephole and saw Harvey and Max standing there.

    ¡°Becky!¡± Harvey eximed as Reba opened the door, his gaze falling on the baby in her

    rms.

    ¡°Oh God, my baby¡­¡± Harvey couldn¡¯t hold back his tears, his hands trembling as he touched Lily¡¯s soft cheek.

    Reba cried too, not knowing what to say. Behind Harvey, Max just waited space for their reunion.

    ¡°May I?¡± Harvey asked, never taking his eyes off Lily.

    signaling Susan to give the small family some

    ¡°Of course,¡± Reba replied, carefully transferring Lily into Harvey¡¯s still trembling hands. ¡°I didn¡¯t think we¡¯d ever be together again so soon. If it weren¡¯t for you, Becky, maybe-¡±

    ¡°No, just don¡¯t talk about it. What matters is that we¡¯re back together,¡± Reba interrupted, wiping her tears with her palm. She stepped back, allowing Harvey and Max to enter Susan¡¯s house.

    ¡°They¡¯ve caught Alicia. She was found guilty of coborating with Victoria and Mia in the kidnapping, torture, and extortion,¡± Max said before Reba could ask.

    4.22 Wed, Aug 21

    57%

    Reba sighed with relief. Even though Sean was still on her mind, she chose to save that question forter. ¡°Thanks, Max. If it weren¡¯t for you, none of this would have been possible,¡± she said sincerely.

    Max waved his hand, ¡°I was just doing my job, and I was paid for it. You¡¯re the one who came up with the brilliant idea to disguise yourself as Marianne and infiltrate the Specter family mansion. You¡¯re the hero in this story, Becky,¡± he said, patting Reba¡¯s shoulder.

    Harvey nodded. ¡°Max is right. If you hadn¡¯t told me where they were keeping my mother, it might have been toote by now,¡± he said, looking at Reba with teary eyes.

    Reba just smiled faintly. To be honest, she didn¡¯t do all of this just to save Harvey¡¯s mother but also because she wanted her small family back. She knew how much Harvey still loved her.

    As they were talking, Lily suddenly started crying, startling Harvey.

    ¡°She¡¯s crying! What should I do?¡± Harvey asked, panicked by Lily¡¯s increasingly loud cries.

    Reba, Susan, and Max suppressed theirughter.

    ¡°She¡¯s probably sleepy. Let me make her a bottle,¡± Reba said, quickly jumping up from the sofa and heading to the pantry. While pouring the milk powder into the bottle, she watched Harvey, who was frantically trying to calm Lily down, and suddenly that warm feeling she thought had gone returned to fill her heart.

    ¡°Can I put her to bed, just me and her?¡± Harvey asked, holding Lily tightly as if he never wanted to be separated from her again. Reba smiled, ¡°Of course. She must have missed you too¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh Lord, I never thought I¡¯d live to see such a sweet reunion!¡± Susan eximed, cupping her wrinkled cheeks with both hands.

    Reba grinned. ¡°This happened sooner than I expected. Um, Max, I want to ask you something,¡± she said after making sure Harvey had entered the bedroom.

    Max looked up, ¡°Yeah, go ahead.¡±

    Reba cleared her throat softly. ¡°Um, about Sean, is he still looking for me?¡± she asked cautiously.

    Max nodded. ¡°Yes, he¡¯s searching for you everywhere. I heard it from one of the staff who works with him.¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°So, I shouldn¡¯t show myself in public for a while?¡± she asked, confused.

    Max nodded. ¡°No one will mention your name except Victoria, but I¡¯m sure she won¡¯t bring up your name in public because that would mean admitting she lost to you. Even Nancy and Margareth don¡¯t know that Marianne is Becky.¡±

    Reba nodded.

    ¡°But will Sean ever stop?¡± she asked, growing nervous because she couldn¡¯t bear to hide for a long time.

    ¡°If his domestic violence case is proven, of course, he¡¯ll have to stop looking for you and stay in prison instead. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m working on it. I¡¯ll let you know as soon as I have any updates Max said casually.

    Reba sighed in relief.

    ¡°Susan, I¡¯m sorry, but I might have to stay here for a while,¡± she said, looking at Susan apologetically. Susan waved her hand dismissively. ¡°Nonsense! I have no problem with that, You and Lily can stay as long as you like.¡±

    Suddenly, Harvey appeared from the direction of the bedroom, walking briskly, causing Reba and Max to look at him in confusion..

    ¡°Harvey, what happened?¡± Reba asked, curious.

    ¡°The police just called me. Alicia had a miscar

 BIT 110

    Reba covered her mouth in shock.

    ¡°Really? Is that-¡±

    ¡°No, Becky, the baby is not mine. I swear to God, I never had sex with Alicia again,¡± Harvey interrupted. He reached out and grasped Rebe hand tightly. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for my mother, I would never have left you and Lily at the hospital that day. I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, his voice choking up.

    Reba swallowed hard. Thinking back to the painful events of a few months ago made her stomach churn. ¡°At least everything¡¯s okay now,¡± she said, smiling with tears in her eyes.

    ¡°I still have a lot to deal with, especially telling my selfish father who¡¯s living in Switzend,¡± Harvey said bitterly. He gently stroked Reba¡¯s head. ¡°Stay here for a while; this ce is very safe. I¡¯lle back for you and Lily after everything¡¯s sorted.¡±

    Reba nodded, feeling a bit traumatized by the separation but knowing she couldn¡¯t cling to Harvey like a child. ¡°Please be careful. Don¡¯t get hurt.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t. I love you,¡± Harvey said, looking deeply into Reba¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°I love you too,¡± Reba replied, feeling strange saying it because, legally, she was still married to

    Sean Parker.

    After quickly kissing Reba, Harvey followed Max, who had already stepped outside, and they disappeared into the distance, having parked their car a little way off.

    ¡°Wine?¡± Susan offered when she saw Reba enter the house with a somber expression.

    Reba grinned broadly. ¡°Please!¡±

    That night, Reba talked at length with Susan over some good wine, finally getting a peaceful night¡¯s sleep for the first time since she hade all the way from Boston.

    One weekter,

    ¡°What¡¯s troubling you on this bright morning?¡± Susan asked as she ced a te of cookies on the table in front of Reba.

    Reba grimaced.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anything from Harvey and Max, and it¡¯s really unsettling. I¡¯m so afraid things aren¡¯t going ording to n,¡± she said, lowering her gaze to Lily, who was sleeping soundly in her

    -arms.

    Susan sighed deeply and reached out to gently pat Reba¡¯s back. ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯re just trying to protect you,¡± she said, trying to reassure her.

    Before Reba could respond, there was a knock at the door. Susan and Reba exchanged

    III

    21319 Thu, Aug 22 ¨C

    nces.

    ¡°Let me. Just stay here,¡± Susan said as she stood up and walked toward the door.

    A momentter,

    ¡°Becky, look who¡¯s here!¡± Susan called out excitedly

    58%

    Reba stood up and saw Harvey standing at the door with a wide smile, and behind him, Max gave a stiff wave. If she weren¡¯t holding Lily, Reba would have jumped into Harvey¡¯s arms, but she restrained herself.

    ¡°Do you two have some kind of radar? Becky was just talk about you, and suddenly, here you are. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re meant to be together! Come in! I¡¯ll make some delicious tea!¡± Susan said cheerfully.

    Harvey kissed Reba and Lily, then pressed his forehead against Reba¡¯s for a long moment. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you two so much,¡± he said earnestly.

    ¡°We¡¯ve missed you too. I thought you¡¯d disappear again,¡± Reba said, her voice breaking.

    ¡°I won¡¯t. From now on, we¡¯ll always be together,¡± Harvey said, softly kissing Reba¡¯s forehead.

    ¡°Any updates?¡± Reba asked after they had all settled on the sofa, enjoying hot tea and cookies.

    ¡°The reports and evidence areplete. They¡¯ll be sentenced to a maximum of fifteen years in prison. And that¡¯s not all-Max also helped expose the corrupt prosecutor and judge who handled Nichs and Alicia¡¯s case before. We just want to make sure that never happens again,¡± Harvey exined, cing his cup back on the table after taking a sip.

    Reba sighed in relief.

    ¡°That¡¯s great! Um, how about your father and mother?¡±

    ¡°My father decided not toe back here; he¡¯s staying in Switzend and is filing for divorce from Victoria, while my mother-¡± Harvey sighed deeply, his face darkening. ¡°Um, the doctor said she needs to be returned to the psychiatric hospital like before, so I¡¯ve arranged for afortable VIP facility at McLean in Belmont.¡±

    Reba reached out and gently patted Harvey¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve done your best. She must be proud of you.¡±

    Suddenly, Max cleared his throat, drawing Reba and Harvey¡¯s attention.

    ¡°I¡¯ve filed your divorce papers against Sean Parker and-¡±

    ¡°And what?¡± Reba interrupted anxiously.

    ¡°And he was arrestedst night after we found CCTV evidence of the abuse hemitted against Maggie just minutes before her ident,¡± Max replied calmly.

    |||

    O

    <

    04 58%

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°CCTV evidence? How did you find it?¡± she asked, curious. ¡°Someone had it but never dared to reveal it.¡±

    Reba frowned. ¡°Who had the CCTV footage? Was it one of the maids?¡± she asked, still curious.

    ¡°One of Ang¡¯s foster children who also worked at Sean¡¯s clinic. Her name is E.¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    Reba covered her mouth in shock, unable to believe that E had finally found the courage to do the right thing. ¡°Thank God¡­¡±

    ¡°So, now what?¡± Reba asked as she and Harvey stood in the bedroom after putting Lily in her crib.

    Harvey stepped forward and pulled her into his arms. ¡°Let¡¯s start over, just the three of us: you, me, and Lily. I promise, this time, there won¡¯t be any more drama to tear us apart,¡± he said earnestly.

    Reba hugged Harvey tightly. ¡°Let¡¯s just move somewhere safe. i know it sounds selfish, but as long as you¡¯re still the heir to the entire Specter fortune, I don¡¯t think our marriage will ever be peaceful. I have a feeling there will be more Victorias and Alicias,¡± she said, her voice trembling.

    Harvey pulled back and looked at Reba, surprised. ¡°Are you telling me to give up my inheritance? You know that until I¡¯m forty, that wealth will always be under my control,¡± he said, staring at Reba, confused.

    ¡°Well, let someone else run thepany! You can still benefit from it without being involved, right? What I¡¯m trying to say is, we could start over somewhere else where no one knows us,¡± Reba said, her eyes shining.

    Harvey was taken aback as if something had just dawned on him. ¡°You¡¯re right. And when I turn forty, I¡¯ll donate fifty percent of my assets to charity and leave the rest to my parents. I think I can still be a good husband and father to you and Lily without that inheritance,¡± he said with a warm smile.

    Reba nodded. ¡°All we need is for you to be with us. So, any country in mind?¡±

    Harvey shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe somewhere warm in Southeast Asia?¡±

    As they were teasing and kissing each other, suddenly, there was a knock on the bedroom door.

    ¡°Yes, Max?¡± Reba asked after opening the door and finding Max standing outside.

    ¡°Becky, I forgot to tell you, but someone was looking for you yesterday when I picked up the divorce papers at your condo,¡± he said tly.

    ¡°Really? Did they leave their name?¡± Reba asked, curious.

    ¡°Yeah, they left their number with me. Her name is Cathy.¡±

    Reba¡¯s eyes widened in shock.

    |||

 BIT 111

    ¡°Susan, I don¡¯t know how to thank you enough. If it weren¡¯t for you, maybe-¡°

    ¡°Sah, I didn¡¯t do anything. 1 just took care of Lily and gave you a ce to stay; it¡¯s really nothing,¡± Susan interrupted as Reba was saying her goodbyes.

    Reba hugged Susan tightly. ¡°You say that because you¡¯re too kind. Please take care of yourself. I hope we meet again sometime,¡± she said before letting go of the embrace.

    ¡°So, where are we headed now?¡± Reba asked once she, Harvey, and Lily were inside the ck SUV that Harvey was driving. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Our old apartment. We¡¯ll <b>stay </b>there for a while until <b>all </b>the court proceedings are done. Besides, I need to find the right candidate for CEO <b>so </b>thepany can run smoothly without me. What do you think?¡± Harvey turned to Reba, who <b>was </b>sitting beside him.

    Reba nodded.

    ¡°Sounds like a good n. I just want to be sure that Lily will be safe, right? I mean, there won¡¯t be anyone else trying to harm her, will there?¡± she asked, still too traumatized to live peacefully

    Harvey reached out and held Reba¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°We can never be certain of what might happen, but I promise I will ensure strict security so that you and Lily are safe from anyone with ill intentions. I promise.¡±

    ¡°I trust you¡­¡±

    Setting foot back in their home filled Reba with emotion. She touched the sofa she used to sit on, the walls she used to pass by, and the bedroom that brought back all the memories they once shared there.

    Suddenly, Harvey hugged her from behind. ¡°I know the way I handled things before was a mistake, but I promise that will never happen again. Whatever problems we face, we¡¯ll face them together, no more running or hiding, even if the intention is to protect you. So take a deep breath and let go of all those fears,¡± he said, as if he could read Reba¡¯s mind.

    Reba took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. Suddenly, tears streamed down her cheeks. She took one of Harvey¡¯s hands that was wrapped around her waist and kissed it softly.

    ¡°Hey, are you okay?¡± Harvey asked, releasing his hug and turning Reba around to face him.

    Reba nodded.

    ¡°Just don¡¯t disappear on us ever again. I¡¯m so d you¡¯re back,¡± she said, crying.

    Harvey couldn¡¯t hold back his tears either and nodded. ¡°I won¡¯t. I¡¯ll be here with you two until death do us part, I promise,¡± he said earnestly. They gazed into each other¡¯s eyes in silence, and slowly, their <b>faces </b>drew closer until their lips met in a deep longing kiss.

    <b>1/3 </b>

    <b>Thu </b><b>Aug </b>

    <b>Chapter </b><b>IIT </b>

    58%

    As Harvey¡¯s hands began to explore every inch of Reba¡¯s skin, she nced back in panic. <b>¡°</b><b>Is </b>Lily safe<b>? </b>

    <b>I </b>put her in the crib. Let¡¯s take this moment just for the two of us,¡± Harvey whispered as he pulled <b>down </b>the zipper of Reba¡¯s dress. That night, they made love in every corner of the <b>apartment</b>, unleashing the deep yearning that had been building inside them.

    The next morning,

    Reba woke up to the sunlight streaming through the <b>gaps </b>in the curtains. Reflexively, she turned to her side and sighed in relief when she saw Harvey there, softly snoring. She kissed his head gently, then got out of bed and went to Lily, who was already awake in her crib. She had deliberately moved Lily¡¯s crib to <b>their </b>room because she wasn¡¯t ready to be separated from her.

    ¡°Hey, my little angel!¡± Reba eximed, lifting Lily from the crib and covering her with kisses.

    ¡°Let¡¯s change your diaper and have some breakfast! You probably don¡¯t remember, but this is your real home, and that man sleeping over there is your daddy, your biological father<b>, </b>Reba chatted with Lily as if she could understand every word.

    After changing Lily¡¯s diaper and feeding her milk, Reba ced in a bouncer and made herself a cup of coffee. She sat near the ss wall<b>, </b>overlooking the bustling streets of Manhattan.

    She stared at the piece of paper with Cathy¡¯s number in her hand, wondering whether she should call her or not. After everything that had happened between them<b>, </b>she could understand Cathy¡¯s choices, but she was still disappointed when Cathy spread those rumors about her on social media.

    After finishing half of her coffee, she finally decided to set aside her disappointment and dialed Cathy¡¯s number on her phone. It was answered immediately after the first ring.

    ¡°Hello?<b>¡± </b>

    It was definitely Cathy¡¯s voice.

    Reba cleared her throat and straightened her back. ¡°Um, Cathy, it¡¯s me, Becky,¡± she said cautiously. Silence. Reba could imagine Cathy being too stunned to speak.

    ¡°Oh my God, you got my number? I thought that paper would never reach you, but it turns out that guy is really trustworthy. Um, are you okay?¡± Cathy asked awkwardly. Of course<b>, </b>after everything between them, nothing could go back to normal just like that.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m good. How about you and your family?¡± Reba asked, just as awkwardly.

    ¡°We¡¯re good¡­¡±

    ¡°Great! Weren¡¯t you supposed to be in Hawaii?¡± Reba asked, frowning in confusion.

    Silence.

    ¡°Cathy? Are you still there?¡±

    |||

    Aug 22

    Cathy cleared her throat, ¡°Yeah, um, I decided toe back to New York and return the remaining money Victoria gave me to the court,¡± she replied, Her voice trembling.

    Reba felt a knot in her stomach at those words<b>¨C</b>bribe money from Victoria? She had known about it, but hearing it directly from Cathy¡¯s mouth still shocked her. How far Victoria was willing to go to keep her away from Harvey and remove Lily from their lives.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a wise decision,¡± Reba said, honestly not knowing what else to say.

    Silence.

    ¡°Cathy? If you¡¯re busy, I can call you backter,¡± Reba offered, understanding if Cathy felt ashamed and awkward.

    ¡°No, Becky, listen up!¡± Cathy suddenly eximed.

    Reba straightened up. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m listening, Cathy. What is it?¡± she asked, hoping they could talk like they used to.

    ??

    Suddenly, the sound of crying grew louder and louder. ¡°Cathy? Are you okay?¡± Reba asked, frowning in concern.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Becky. I know I¡¯m a traitor, but I had no other choice at the time. I had to choose between you and my sick mother. You know how hard that choice was, right?¡± Cathy sobbed.

    Reba sighed deeply. ¡°I know, which is why I¡¯ve been haunted by guilt because the people closest to me had to suffer. I should be the one apologizing to you,¡± she said sincerely.

    ¡°Can we start over? I¡¯ll never find a friend as good as you,¡± Cathy asked, still sobbing.

    ¡°Of course! I¡¯m d you said that because I¡¯m so tired of this awkwardness,¡± Reba replied,ughing softly.

    ¡°Yeah, but you know what? I¡¯ve been keeping an eye on you from afar, even though we weren¡¯t talking. If it weren¡¯t for me, you might have walked down the aisle alone that time,¡± Cathy joked, half¨Cserious.

    Reba frowned. ¡°What do you mean?<b>¡± </b>

    <b>***** </b>

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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!