Where Love Lingered, Hatred Burnt

After Simon came home, Louisa sat quietly on the sofa. There was an unlit cigarette resting between her fingerst. Meanwhile, the neon lights outside the window cast shifting colors across her pale face.

“Louisa, I’m back!”

Simon smiled softly as he walked toward her. He gently took her wrist and brushed it with his fingertips.

“I was too impatient this afternoon. I’m sorry. Please, don’t stay mad.”

After that, Simon sat beside her as he pulled Louisa into his arms, speaking tenderly, “The specialist team has created a full treatment plan for Micah. The surgery has a very high success rate. After it’s done, he’ll be able to live a normal and healthy life.”

Louisa kept her eyes down in silence as she refused to look at or speak to him. Simon cupped her neck and tilted her head up. Then, he kissed her lips over and over.

His tone was full of regret as he continued, “I know you’re upset with me, but Rebecca saved my life. Her health isn’t good, so I’m just helping her as repayment. Other than that, there’s nothing between us.”

Louisa’s heart trembled. She lifted her gaze. Her beautiful, bright eyes were now misty with emotion. She stared at him and she asked Simon with a soft yet firm voice, “If I had been the one to save you, would you do anything for me?”

Simon froze for a second, but then smiled and gently stroked her hair.

“Of course. But I would never let you be in that kind of danger in the first place. I couldn’t stand to see you hurt.”

While Simon continued to talk, he failed to notice the light fading from Louisa’s eyes. Meanwhile, Louisa didn’t answer. Instead, she slowly pulled her hand from his and stood up to go to the bedroom. She left Simon on the sofa who thought that she was simply throwing a childish tantrum.

The next day was the Jacobson Group’s press conference. Louisa had to attend as the company’s representative. She hadn’t wanted to show up at such an event, but she couldn’t let her Uncle Jonathan take full credit for the company her parents had built with their own hands.

The moment she appeared, all attention turned to her. Whispers filled the crowd, full of awe and envy.

“Miss Jacobson is truly stunning. No wonder Mr. Griswolds, who used to hate women, fell for her.”

“Anyone else who tried to get close to Mr. Griswolds would be dismissed, but Miss Jacobson can do whatever she wants in front of him.”

“When her high heels gave her blisters, Mr. Griswolds knelt on the ground to put a Band-Aid on her foot. Who would’ve thought that a man like him would bow so low for love?”

Louisa heard every word clearly. When she saw their jealous expressions, it made the bitterness in her chest grow even sharper. She quickened her steps into the interview room.

Moments later, the reporters arrived. But leading them was Rebecca who was dressed in an elegant, expensive designer dress. Holding the microphone, she smiled sweetly at Louisa.

Louisa frowned, her voice cold as she spoke first, “Why are you here?”

Before Rebecca could answer, Simon appeared behind her. He was tall, broad-shouldered, with a slim waist. His custom suit highlighted his powerful build and his commanding presence instantly silenced the room.

Simon walked over calmly, leaned slightly toward Louisa and spoke in a patient tone. “Rebecca’s never been to a press conference like this. I wanted her to come and get some experience. Don’t worry, this is your event. So, we’ll make sure everything goes smoothly.”

Louisa almost laughed. Her lips curved into a small, sharp smile. However, she stayed quiet. She blinked several times as she was trying to hold back her feelings, but her lashes were already damp.

After that, Louisa turned away to raise her hand and gestured for the staff to continue. On the other hand, Rebecca’s smile faltered. She couldn’t understand why Louisa didn’t explode in anger. Louisa was known for being bold and forceful who would never let anyone take advantage of her.