"It's strange," Eric mused, puzzled. "My immune system is top-notch, so why would I suddenly sneeze?"-"Huh?" Lora was utterly perplexed. How could one's own husband be incapable? What sort of woman was this?"So?" Sylvia looked at Lora. "Are you still interested in Eric? I suggest you focus more on teaching now and improve the students' academic performance."This society is cruel," Sylvia added. "The majority are impoverished. One undeniable fact is the existence of social hierarchy. To swiftly transcend it, one must study!"Studying was the most cost-effective and least risky method to transcend classes.Children from poor families ought to study more. Sylvia understood this well. Thus, whether in Williams Corp. or the Innova Group, she allocated a substantial sum to support education, facilitating social mobility.Unexpectedly, Lora responded, "Ms. Williams, I'm afraid you've misunderstood. The academic performance of the class I lead is the best in our school. Even in all
"Please don't cry, alright?" Sylvia's voice was gentle, yet firm. "It's just not feasible, neither morally nor practically. Not only would it harm you, but it would also endanger Eric."Do you understand? If you truly care for and genuinely love him, it's best to keep your distance."Sylvia spoke these words solely for Eric's benefit. She was well aware that someone like Eric could easily handle a handful of mistresses without any repercussions.It was a harsh reality, but such behavior was not uncommon in a society where the majority of resources flowed toward the elite.The upper echelon's majority indulged in extravagant lifestyles, with multiple partners being just another facet of their extravagance.Sylvia was grateful that Eric wasn't one of them. Otherwise, who could rein him in?But was Lora becoming Eric's woman a solution? Not necessarily.Eric's position as the Lieutenant General of the Combat Department came with its own share of secrecy. Otherwise, who knew how man
"Listen, what kind of flattering words are these?"Though Sylvia was nearing her 30s and had given birth, she couldn't quite match the charm of a 17 or 18-year-old girl.Over these years, Sylvia's figure and beauty remained unchanged. If anything, after having a kid, she exuded the distinct charm of a mature woman.If Sylvia was captivating before, now she was soul-stirring."Don't talk such nonsense," Eric said, gazing at Sylvia. "No woman in this world, no matter how beautiful, can compare to you."Sylvia was greatly pleased by these words. True or not, she loved hearing them.She chuckled and said, "Capable men indeed have their allure. Add a little sweetness to their words, and they become almost flawless. No wonder Lora suggested taking care of our child, even entertaining the idea of a shared husband. She's willingly onboard!""Enough, enough!" Eric sighed, speechless. What was all this talk about?Their connection went beyond mere emotional ties. Even if everything else
Grace didn't bother asking Eric and Sylvia where all these things came from. From her vantage point, many things were crystal clear. She knew Eric had made a trip to Haevon in Erweston, and he had most likely obtained these items there. If they were rare items, they must be exceedingly valuable.The Combat Department hadn't uttered a word, and she had nothing to add. During dinner, Henry and Alexander delved into weighty discussions. In families such as the Montgomerys and the Williams, pivotal decisions typically rested with the men.The Montgomerys didn't need marriage alliances to bolster their social standing—it was excessive. Their family had already reached its pinnacle.A few sips of wine later, the matter was settled.Alexander chuckled. "You handle your end of the arrangements, and I'll entertain some relatives and friends on my side. In essence, let's keep it straightforward. If Sylvester doesn't marry her, I'm concerned she won't find another suitable match!""Dad!" S
Eric shrugged."It's none of my business. If others want to get married, can you really stop them?" He spoke candidly. "Besides, you're not getting any younger. Find someone to marry already!" But he couldn't help but feel that Ruth was probably someone no one dared to marry.Yet, having someone like Ruth at home had its advantages—there would likely be no quarrels in the household. As long as Ruth was willing, the marital relationship would undoubtedly be harmonious.Unharmonious? Ridiculous!Just look at Ruth's character. Could any ordinary man overpower her?Sean had once bluntly stated that he would not marry Ruth. He might end up spending the latter half of his life in a wheelchair!Sylvia sat beside them, desperately holding back her laughter.She knew Ruth must have feelings for Eric. Unfortunately, outstanding men in this circle were scarce.Ruth was undoubtedly aiming high, beyond the reach of the young heirs from the prestigious families in King City.Only someone
The Williams were puzzled and perplexed. What was Ruth up to? Even if she was Eric's colleague, did she really need to be so brazen about it?Ruth didn't mince her words and treated the Williams as if they were air, addressing Eric, "Look here, I'm traveling all this way to Salt City. Surely... you ought to give me a little something in return, right?"Eric was speechless. "I didn't ask you to come!"He understood now. Ruth had set her sights on that batch of jewelry. Were such baubles even necessary for a prestigious family like the McClains? Eric didn't buy it.The McClain family surely had plenty of jewelry in their collection. Besides jewelry, Eric had seen numerous priceless antiques at the McClain residence. Just taking one out would be the type of wealth that would last for generations.Sylvia glanced at Eric. "Eric, maybe... we should give her a box?"She felt they had plenty of jewelry at home, and Ruth wasn't a bad person. She had gone through hardships risking her life
Eric had no clue about Ruth's true intentions. He had made his choice, and there wasn't much he could say about it.Even with Sylvester's wedding looming, Eric and Sylvia couldn't interfere much—work beckoned at the appointed hour.-As noon approached, Ruth arrived, adorned with the necklace they had picked out at the Rosewood Estate yesterday.Eric's mind went blank. He seemed to have discerned this woman's motives."Haven't left yet?" Eric asked casually.Ruth smiled faintly. "Why the rush? Since you've gifted me this valuable necklace, how about treating you and your wife to lunch before I go?"Eric raised his hand hastily. "Hold on! This thing isn't a gift from me! Be careful how you phrase that when you meet others later!"He was wary of misunderstandings.Ruth nodded repeatedly. If she invited them for lunch, Eric would certainly accept the invitation. Seizing the opportunity to fleece her a bit would be rather satisfying.However, as the three descended the stairs,
Eric was completely bewildered.What were these words of deception that Ruth uttered? When did he ever spend money on Ruth? And about that necklace? Wasn't it her own choice? When did he spend millions on it?!After a moment, he understood. Ruth was just putting on a show for another woman.Wasn't she afraid of being misunderstood?Eric's head throbbed even more.Wasn't this making Lora think he was the kind of man who couldn't walk straight when he saw a beauty? Wasn't it just making Lora think there was an opportunity?Eric couldn't understand—this would only add fuel to the fire.Sylvia suppressed a smile, feeling that Ruth's words were too powerful.Lora stood there, dumbfounded. She couldn't figure it out.Eric clearly had another woman, and it seemed like she got along well with Sylvia. As such, why couldn't he have a third woman?Was it because she... lacked in some aspects?Besides appearance, she didn't lack in other aspects.Lora spoke up. "Mr. Johnson I really do