Independence

Ingrid’s frustration finally erupted. “Can’t you see all I’ve done for you these past days? I just want us to go back to the way we were, without any barriers between us.

“But your heart is made of stone, you don’t give me a single chance… Why? Is it because you still have feelings for Miranda? You can’t forget her, can you?”

Hansel responded slowly and deliberately, “So, what if do?” He didn’t even bother pretending anymore.

“I know I can’t compare to Miranda, but my love for you is no less than hers.” Ingrid sobbed with tears streaming down her face as she reached out to hold Hansel’s hand, only for him to heartlessly fling her

away.

“You’re not even worthy of

entioning her.” Hansel’s temples throbbed. He was barely containing his fury. “Hearing her name from your mouth just feels like an insult.

*I’ll give you one day. Apologize to my mom in person or get out of the villa. You decide.”

With that, he grabbed his coat and walked out.

Ingrid trembled. In his eyes, she saw not herself but an object–something he could discard at any moment.

She had gotten pregnant out of wedlock for him, dropped out of university, and humbled herself in front of Evelyn. She had so much. And now, this is her reward? He despised her and wanted her gone?

Ingrid seethed with resentment. She had sacrificed so much and fought so hard to get to where she was. Now that wealth and luxury were within her grasp, how could she just let it all go?

Wiping away her tears, she placed her hands protectively over her belly. As long as the baby remained, she hadn’t lost this battle just yet.

Hansel sat in his car, unsure of where to go. The hospital had a medical team, and Evelyn would receive. the best care.

The mansion had Ingrid, and he didn’t want to stay there a second longer.Content rights by NôvelDr//ama.Org.

As for the company…

He had been working overtime for two consecutive days. If he didn’t rest, neither would his secretary or

assistant.

“Cal, let’s go for a drink.”

“Hans, don’t you think you’ve been going out way too much lately?” Calvin asked; his tone was a mix of concern and surprise.

Back when Hansel was still with Miranda, he’d only meet up with their group two or three times a month at most. Now, he was like a wild horse that had broken free, indulging without restraint.

Hansel asked again, “Are you coming out or not?”

“Sorry, Hans. I’m back at my family’s house tonight.”

“Alright. Say hi to your parents for me.”

Hansel hung up and tried calling Zach next, but his call went unanswered. At this hour, Zach was probably busy cozying up with some woman.

Hansel scrolled through his contacts, pausing when his eyes landed on a familiar name–Sam.

“Well, this is a surprise. The sun must’ve risen from the wrong side today if you’re calling me,” Sam answered quickly, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Sam always knew how to push his buttons. But Hansel didn’t get upset. He flicked ash from his cigarette out the window and said calmly, “I didn’t think you’d still pick up.

Sam retorted, “Blocking you would be childish. I’m above that.”

“Wanna grab a drink?”

“You’re not just using this as an excuse to lure me out for a fight, are you?”

Hansel chuckled. “Wouldn’t rule it out.”

Sam snorted. “Send me the address.”

Hansel arrived first at Nightshade Bar and sat in a booth in the center seat. The drinks had just been served when Sam walked in.

Sam slid into the seat across from him. He glanced at the tequila on the table, and raised an eyebrow.” Tequila? Isn’t that a bit strong?”