In her third year with Julian, Clara went to make an appointment to register for marriage. To her shock, she was told that she was already married. Panicked and confused, she rushed to find Julian. But when she reached his office, she overheard him on the phone with Seraphina. Their conversation was intimate. "You're the only one in my heart," Julian said. "When I was with Clara, my only goal was to keep her out in the open so I could protect you." So the past three years had been nothing but Clara's wishful thinking. She wiped away her tears and turned around, walking away for good. She gave herself three days to slowly untangle herself from his world. While Julian and Seraphina carried on their romance, Clara resigned from her job and picked her career back up. But then the man whose name was on that fake marriage certificate came after her. Later, Julian was consumed by regret. He begged Clara for her forgiveness. "Clara, give me another chance," he pleaded. Before Clara could respond, a handsome man walked up from behind and wrapped his arm around her waist.

Chapter 1"You're already married, why are you here to book a marriage registration? Don't you know bigamy is a crime?" "What? My boyfriend and I have never registered... this is my first time booking." "Stop making excuses, take a good look at this!" Clara Vance tightly clutched the electronic marriage certificate printed by the staff, walking out of the Civil Affairs Bureau in a daze. The surroundings were bustling, but she could not hear anything. She lowered her head, staring at the document in bewilderment. The woman in the photo was undoubtedly her. But the man... he had sharp, cold features, a high nose bridge, and a faint smile on his thin lips. His deep, dark eyes stared into the lens, sharp and astute. Name: Dominic Jarrett. Clara searched her memory but could not recall knowing such a man. "What on earth is going on? When did I get married?" Clara found it absurd. She and her boyfriend, Julian Lowell, had been dating for three years. They were recently planning their wedding. She came to the bureau today to book an appointment for Valentine's Day. How did this happen? Clara bit her lip in panic. After much thought, she put the certificate in her bag, walked down the steps, and hailed a cab. "Driver, to Lowell Industries." This was a huge matter; she had to tell Julian. With his power and influence, he would surely figure something out. "Alright," the driver replied. Along the way, the car radio broadcasted entertainment news: "Dominic Jarrett, CEO of Jarrett Global in Somerset, has arrived in Capital City! Word is, he's here to discuss a partnership with Lowell Industries..." Clara was distracted and didn't hear a single word. Half an hour later, at Lowell Industries. Clutching the printed document, Clara arrived at the CEO's office, panting heavily. She pushed the door open, looking at the man busy at his desk. "Julian," she called out. The man had a handsome, refined face. His suit and tie were meticulously neat, giving off a noble and aloof aura. Hearing her voice, he put down his pen and looked up. "What's wrong? You're in such a rush." "I have an emergency and need your help." Clara had been on edge the whole way, her face a bit pale. She walked over anxiously and handed him the document. Seeing her so frantic, Julian gently comforted her while reaching out to take it. Clara felt a warmth in her heart. Just then, a phone rang. Julian glanced at the screen, immediately withdrew his hand, and picked up his phone instead. Clara felt a wave of disappointment. "Julian, this is really urgent..." "Hold on, let me take this call." Julian didn't even look at her. He answered the phone, his voice turning incredibly gentle. "What is it, Sera? It's not very convenient for me to talk right now, use French." "Okay, Julian. Actually, it's nothing major. I just wanted to ask when you are going to break up with Clara. I don't want you to be with her. It makes me uncomfortable to see it..." Clara had taught herself French over the past six months. Frowning, she struggled to listen. When she finally processed what Seraphina Shaw was saying on the other end, her mind completely exploded. Usually, Sera would sweetly call her 'sister-in-law' whenever they met. How did it suddenly turn into such a disgusted 'Clara'? Julian chuckled and comforted her, "What, you can't wait anymore?" "No, I just... I'm just worried that if you spend too much time with that woman, you might fall for her." Julian paused, lowered his gaze, and retorted, "I won't. I only have you in my heart. I got together with her back then just to keep her in the spotlight to protect you, you know that." Only who in his heart? Protect what? Clara's heart violently clenched, thinking she had misheard. But Sera's next words plunged her straight into an endless abyss. "True, she's just a shield you brought in to protect me. She's not worth my worry at all. Besides, after all these years, you haven't laid a finger on her. You never even spend Valentine's Day with her, you always come to accompany me. What do I have to worry about."Clara felt as if she had been struck by lightning. Whatever they said next, she couldn't hear. Her mind was entirely consumed by Sera's words, echoing over and over, stabbing at her. So, Julian was only with her to shield his foster sister, Seraphina, from public scrutiny, to cover up their illicit affair! And to think, she gave up her beloved design career to help him run the company. For him, she learned French. For him... Her vision gradually blurred. Clara couldn't stop trembling, overwhelmed by humiliation and disgrace. She bit her inner lip hard to hold back her tears. "Sorry, Clara. Sera is just like that, don't mind her." After placating Sera, Julian hung up and spoke to her apologetically. "What were you going to tell me? Let me see that document." Clara looked at him, gripped the certificate tightly, and suddenly smiled. "It's nothing, just something about a business deal I didn't quite understand. I wanted to ask you. But while you were on the phone, I figured it out. No need to ask anymore. You're busy, I'll get going." Julian was noncommittal. "Alright, if you still have questions later, just ask me." As if feeling he was being a bit dismissive, or perhaps feeling a twinge of guilt, he added, "Wait for me at home tonight." Clara thought for a second. "Sure." Tonight would be the perfect time to discuss the division of assets after their breakup! "I'm leaving." She gave a faint smile, said no more, and turned away. Julian watched her back, slowly swallowing the rest of his words. His thin lips pressed into a straight line, and his dark brows furrowed slightly. Was it his imagination? Clara seemed much colder to him. She used to love clinging to him, always having endless things to say. Julian spun his expensive fountain pen with his long fingers, then chuckled, assuming the young woman was just throwing a little tantrum. He figured he would help her look at that document tonight... and then went back to work. Leaving the CEO's office, Clara finally couldn't hold it in and burst into tears. Three years of a relationship, her heart wasn't made of stone. Standing in the elevator, she watched the red numbers counting down, while her memories with Julian played in reverse like rewinding time. She had no parents and few friends; she was a girl who severely lacked a sense of security. When she first entered society, being penniless, she worked as an assistant and encountered harassment, scandals, and many terrible things. The worst was during a business dinner when someone slipped a drug into her drink. Fortunately, Julian saw her and helped her, otherwise, that night would have left a lifelong shadow on her. Afterwards, Julian told her she could work at Lowell Industries if she wanted. She went, not because she dreamed of a meteoric rise, but because she desperately needed money and a stable job. But she never expected Julian to be so wonderful. He was gentle, refined, like a perfect gentleman. He would order food for her when she was broke at the end of the month. When she made a mistake organizing files for the first time, he didn't throw a tantrum and tell her to get lost like other bosses; instead, he offered constructive advice. He was like a sun, warming and saving her. She was destined to fall in love with such a person. But looking at it now, in this romance, she was the only one who ever truly gave her heart. Julian was just acting. Snapping back to reality, Clara's face was covered in tears. Just then, the elevator arrived, casting a shadow. Not wanting anyone to see her in such a miserable state, she lowered her head and rushed out in a panic. Unexpectedly, she bumped into a firm arm. "I'm sorry," she apologized and hurriedly fled. "What is that girl in such a rush for," complained someone flattering the man beside him. "Mr. Jarrett, are you alright?"Dominic Jarrett maintained a cold and composed expression. His long fingers brushed his sleeve as he said, "It's nothing. Let's go." "Alright... Please step into the elevator first." "Thank you." Dominic gave a reserved nod and stepped into the elevator. When he turned around, he happened to see Clara's retreating figure. Under the warm winter sun, she wore an apricot coat. Her black hair cascaded softly over her shoulders, swaying gracefully as she walked. She looked serene and gentle. It made one involuntarily recall the fleeting, beautiful side profile he had just caught a glimpse of. His heart suddenly felt a tug—not painful, but impossible to ignore. Snapping back, Dominic couldn't help but frown, refusing to let himself think too much. Sarah West had passed away three years ago. That girl merely had a side profile that resembled hers! After Clara left the company, it was still snowing outside, the cold wind blowing harshly. But no matter how cold it was, it couldn't compare to the chill in her heart. Not wanting to go home, she found a cafe and sat down. She ordered a latte. Not long after she sat down, her phone suddenly rang. Clara snapped out of her daze, shifted her gaze away from the window, wiped a tear from her eye, and answered the call. "Hello, Leo." The man on the other end paused, then scoffed, "You still know to call me your senior, then why don't you ever call me? If I don't call you, you never call." Clara couldn't help but smile. "You're right, Leo. I'll definitely keep it in mind next time." "Hmph." After exchanging a few pleasantries, the man brought up the main topic, "For the design exhibition in three days, should I save a ticket for you as usual?" Clara paused. "Yes." "Every time I give you a ticket, you never show up." "I will definitely attend this time." "Huh? Did I hear that right?" Clara lowered her eyes, having made up her mind. "I've thought it through. I'm preparing to return to the design circle. In a few days, I'm also planning to leave Capital City and develop my career in Somerset." "What!!" Clara took a deep breath and told him what happened that morning. After hearing it, even with his good temper, the man couldn't help but curse out loud. "Is Julian a beast? Treating you like that." "Alright, I support your return to the design world. I'll go tell our professor later; he values you so much, he'll definitely be thrilled. As for moving to Somerset, I actually have a suggestion. Since the exhibition is in three days, why don't you use the opportunity to reveal your identity, and then head to Somerset after it ends?" Clara thought it was a viable plan. They chatted for a while longer before hanging up. Just then, a message popped up. It was from Julian: [Clara, I negotiated a project with Jarrett Global from Somerset today. Go to The Sterling Hotel tomorrow at noon to entertain Mr. Jarrett.] Work again. It seemed he only came to her when it was about work. Clara curled her lips in mockery. She didn't refuse, though. After all, when they split the assets, she was entitled to her share. Clara: [Okay.] Her response was concise. She didn't shamelessly try to show concern for him after discussing work, like she used to. Julian was silent for a moment on the other end: [Alright, I'll have Arthur send you the location in a bit. Also, here are the project files. Take a look.] [File] Clara: [Received.] She didn't reply further. Julian didn't bother her again either. Clara gripped her phone a little tighter and tapped open the file. With one glance, she froze when she saw the client's name was Dominic Jarrett. Then, she frantically pulled out the printed certificate from her bag and compared them. She stared at it for a full five times. Her 'husband's' name and Mr. Jarrett's name were exactly the same! Shocked, Clara opened her browser and searched for photos of Jarrett Global's CEO. She couldn't find any; it was clear his identity was kept strictly confidential, given his status. Clara sighed softly. Realizing how silly she was acting, she amusingly patted her own head. "What am I thinking? It's definitely just people sharing the same name." As for that bizarre certificate, she figured the machine must have malfunctioned and made a mistake.Chapter 2"You're already married, why are you here to book a marriage registration? Don't you know bigamy is a crime?" "What? My boyfriend and I have never registered... this is my first time booking." "Stop making excuses, take a good look at this!" Clara Vance tightly clutched the electronic marriage certificate printed by the staff, walking out of the Civil Affairs Bureau in a daze. The surroundings were bustling, but she could not hear anything. She lowered her head, staring at the document in bewilderment. The woman in the photo was undoubtedly her. But the man... he had sharp, cold features, a high nose bridge, and a faint smile on his thin lips. His deep, dark eyes stared into the lens, sharp and astute. Name: Dominic Jarrett. Clara searched her memory but could not recall knowing such a man. "What on earth is going on? When did I get married?" Clara found it absurd. She and her boyfriend, Julian Lowell, had been dating for three years. They were recently planning their wedding. She came to the bureau today to book an appointment for Valentine's Day. How did this happen? Clara bit her lip in panic. After much thought, she put the certificate in her bag, walked down the steps, and hailed a cab. "Driver, to Lowell Industries." This was a huge matter; she had to tell Julian. With his power and influence, he would surely figure something out. "Alright," the driver replied. Along the way, the car radio broadcasted entertainment news: "Dominic Jarrett, CEO of Jarrett Global in Somerset, has arrived in Capital City! Word is, he's here to discuss a partnership with Lowell Industries..." Clara was distracted and didn't hear a single word. Half an hour later, at Lowell Industries. Clutching the printed document, Clara arrived at the CEO's office, panting heavily. She pushed the door open, looking at the man busy at his desk. "Julian," she called out. The man had a handsome, refined face. His suit and tie were meticulously neat, giving off a noble and aloof aura. Hearing her voice, he put down his pen and looked up. "What's wrong? You're in such a rush." "I have an emergency and need your help." Clara had been on edge the whole way, her face a bit pale. She walked over anxiously and handed him the document. Seeing her so frantic, Julian gently comforted her while reaching out to take it. Clara felt a warmth in her heart. Just then, a phone rang. Julian glanced at the screen, immediately withdrew his hand, and picked up his phone instead. Clara felt a wave of disappointment. "Julian, this is really urgent..." "Hold on, let me take this call." Julian didn't even look at her. He answered the phone, his voice turning incredibly gentle. "What is it, Sera? It's not very convenient for me to talk right now, use French." "Okay, Julian. Actually, it's nothing major. I just wanted to ask when you are going to break up with Clara. I don't want you to be with her. It makes me uncomfortable to see it..." Clara had taught herself French over the past six months. Frowning, she struggled to listen. When she finally processed what Seraphina Shaw was saying on the other end, her mind completely exploded. Usually, Sera would sweetly call her 'sister-in-law' whenever they met. How did it suddenly turn into such a disgusted 'Clara'? Julian chuckled and comforted her, "What, you can't wait anymore?" "No, I just... I'm just worried that if you spend too much time with that woman, you might fall for her." Julian paused, lowered his gaze, and retorted, "I won't. I only have you in my heart. I got together with her back then just to keep her in the spotlight to protect you, you know that." Only who in his heart? Protect what? Clara's heart violently clenched, thinking she had misheard. But Sera's next words plunged her straight into an endless abyss. "True, she's just a shield you brought in to protect me. She's not worth my worry at all. Besides, after all these years, you haven't laid a finger on her. You never even spend Valentine's Day with her, you always come to accompany me. What do I have to worry about."Clara felt as if she had been struck by lightning. Whatever they said next, she couldn't hear. Her mind was entirely consumed by Sera's words, echoing over and over, stabbing at her. So, Julian was only with her to shield his foster sister, Seraphina, from public scrutiny, to cover up their illicit affair! And to think, she gave up her beloved design career to help him run the company. For him, she learned French. For him... Her vision gradually blurred. Clara couldn't stop trembling, overwhelmed by humiliation and disgrace. She bit her inner lip hard to hold back her tears. "Sorry, Clara. Sera is just like that, don't mind her." After placating Sera, Julian hung up and spoke to her apologetically. "What were you going to tell me? Let me see that document." Clara looked at him, gripped the certificate tightly, and suddenly smiled. "It's nothing, just something about a business deal I didn't quite understand. I wanted to ask you. But while you were on the phone, I figured it out. No need to ask anymore. You're busy, I'll get going." Julian was noncommittal. "Alright, if you still have questions later, just ask me." As if feeling he was being a bit dismissive, or perhaps feeling a twinge of guilt, he added, "Wait for me at home tonight." Clara thought for a second. "Sure." Tonight would be the perfect time to discuss the division of assets after their breakup! "I'm leaving." She gave a faint smile, said no more, and turned away. Julian watched her back, slowly swallowing the rest of his words. His thin lips pressed into a straight line, and his dark brows furrowed slightly. Was it his imagination? Clara seemed much colder to him. She used to love clinging to him, always having endless things to say. Julian spun his expensive fountain pen with his long fingers, then chuckled, assuming the young woman was just throwing a little tantrum. He figured he would help her look at that document tonight... and then went back to work. Leaving the CEO's office, Clara finally couldn't hold it in and burst into tears. Three years of a relationship, her heart wasn't made of stone. Standing in the elevator, she watched the red numbers counting down, while her memories with Julian played in reverse like rewinding time. She had no parents and few friends; she was a girl who severely lacked a sense of security. When she first entered society, being penniless, she worked as an assistant and encountered harassment, scandals, and many terrible things. The worst was during a business dinner when someone slipped a drug into her drink. Fortunately, Julian saw her and helped her, otherwise, that night would have left a lifelong shadow on her. Afterwards, Julian told her she could work at Lowell Industries if she wanted. She went, not because she dreamed of a meteoric rise, but because she desperately needed money and a stable job. But she never expected Julian to be so wonderful. He was gentle, refined, like a perfect gentleman. He would order food for her when she was broke at the end of the month. When she made a mistake organizing files for the first time, he didn't throw a tantrum and tell her to get lost like other bosses; instead, he offered constructive advice. He was like a sun, warming and saving her. She was destined to fall in love with such a person. But looking at it now, in this romance, she was the only one who ever truly gave her heart. Julian was just acting. Snapping back to reality, Clara's face was covered in tears. Just then, the elevator arrived, casting a shadow. Not wanting anyone to see her in such a miserable state, she lowered her head and rushed out in a panic. Unexpectedly, she bumped into a firm arm. "I'm sorry," she apologized and hurriedly fled. "What is that girl in such a rush for," complained someone flattering the man beside him. "Mr. Jarrett, are you alright?"Dominic Jarrett maintained a cold and composed expression. His long fingers brushed his sleeve as he said, "It's nothing. Let's go." "Alright... Please step into the elevator first." "Thank you." Dominic gave a reserved nod and stepped into the elevator. When he turned around, he happened to see Clara's retreating figure. Under the warm winter sun, she wore an apricot coat. Her black hair cascaded softly over her shoulders, swaying gracefully as she walked. She looked serene and gentle. It made one involuntarily recall the fleeting, beautiful side profile he had just caught a glimpse of. His heart suddenly felt a tug—not painful, but impossible to ignore. Snapping back, Dominic couldn't help but frown, refusing to let himself think too much. Sarah West had passed away three years ago. That girl merely had a side profile that resembled hers! After Clara left the company, it was still snowing outside, the cold wind blowing harshly. But no matter how cold it was, it couldn't compare to the chill in her heart. Not wanting to go home, she found a cafe and sat down. She ordered a latte. Not long after she sat down, her phone suddenly rang. Clara snapped out of her daze, shifted her gaze away from the window, wiped a tear from her eye, and answered the call. "Hello, Leo." The man on the other end paused, then scoffed, "You still know to call me your senior, then why don't you ever call me? If I don't call you, you never call." Clara couldn't help but smile. "You're right, Leo. I'll definitely keep it in mind next time." "Hmph." After exchanging a few pleasantries, the man brought up the main topic, "For the design exhibition in three days, should I save a ticket for you as usual?" Clara paused. "Yes." "Every time I give you a ticket, you never show up." "I will definitely attend this time." "Huh? Did I hear that right?" Clara lowered her eyes, having made up her mind. "I've thought it through. I'm preparing to return to the design circle. In a few days, I'm also planning to leave Capital City and develop my career in Somerset." "What!!" Clara took a deep breath and told him what happened that morning. After hearing it, even with his good temper, the man couldn't help but curse out loud. "Is Julian a beast? Treating you like that." "Alright, I support your return to the design world. I'll go tell our professor later; he values you so much, he'll definitely be thrilled. As for moving to Somerset, I actually have a suggestion. Since the exhibition is in three days, why don't you use the opportunity to reveal your identity, and then head to Somerset after it ends?" Clara thought it was a viable plan. They chatted for a while longer before hanging up. Just then, a message popped up. It was from Julian: [Clara, I negotiated a project with Jarrett Global from Somerset today. Go to The Sterling Hotel tomorrow at noon to entertain Mr. Jarrett.] Work again. It seemed he only came to her when it was about work. Clara curled her lips in mockery. She didn't refuse, though. After all, when they split the assets, she was entitled to her share. Clara: [Okay.] Her response was concise. She didn't shamelessly try to show concern for him after discussing work, like she used to. Julian was silent for a moment on the other end: [Alright, I'll have Arthur send you the location in a bit. Also, here are the project files. Take a look.] [File] Clara: [Received.] She didn't reply further. Julian didn't bother her again either. Clara gripped her phone a little tighter and tapped open the file. With one glance, she froze when she saw the client's name was Dominic Jarrett. Then, she frantically pulled out the printed certificate from her bag and compared them. She stared at it for a full five times. Her 'husband's' name and Mr. Jarrett's name were exactly the same! Shocked, Clara opened her browser and searched for photos of Jarrett Global's CEO. She couldn't find any; it was clear his identity was kept strictly confidential, given his status. Clara sighed softly. Realizing how silly she was acting, she amusingly patted her own head. "What am I thinking? It's definitely just people sharing the same name." As for that bizarre certificate, she figured the machine must have malfunctioned and made a mistake.Chapter 3"You're already married, why are you here to book a marriage registration? Don't you know bigamy is a crime?" "What? My boyfriend and I have never registered... this is my first time booking." "Stop making excuses, take a good look at this!" Clara Vance tightly clutched the electronic marriage certificate printed by the staff, walking out of the Civil Affairs Bureau in a daze. The surroundings were bustling, but she could not hear anything. She lowered her head, staring at the document in bewilderment. The woman in the photo was undoubtedly her. But the man... he had sharp, cold features, a high nose bridge, and a faint smile on his thin lips. His deep, dark eyes stared into the lens, sharp and astute. Name: Dominic Jarrett. Clara searched her memory but could not recall knowing such a man. "What on earth is going on? When did I get married?" Clara found it absurd. She and her boyfriend, Julian Lowell, had been dating for three years. They were recently planning their wedding. She came to the bureau today to book an appointment for Valentine's Day. How did this happen? Clara bit her lip in panic. After much thought, she put the certificate in her bag, walked down the steps, and hailed a cab. "Driver, to Lowell Industries." This was a huge matter; she had to tell Julian. With his power and influence, he would surely figure something out. "Alright," the driver replied. Along the way, the car radio broadcasted entertainment news: "Dominic Jarrett, CEO of Jarrett Global in Somerset, has arrived in Capital City! Word is, he's here to discuss a partnership with Lowell Industries..." Clara was distracted and didn't hear a single word. Half an hour later, at Lowell Industries. Clutching the printed document, Clara arrived at the CEO's office, panting heavily. She pushed the door open, looking at the man busy at his desk. "Julian," she called out. The man had a handsome, refined face. His suit and tie were meticulously neat, giving off a noble and aloof aura. Hearing her voice, he put down his pen and looked up. "What's wrong? You're in such a rush." "I have an emergency and need your help." Clara had been on edge the whole way, her face a bit pale. She walked over anxiously and handed him the document. Seeing her so frantic, Julian gently comforted her while reaching out to take it. Clara felt a warmth in her heart. Just then, a phone rang. Julian glanced at the screen, immediately withdrew his hand, and picked up his phone instead. Clara felt a wave of disappointment. "Julian, this is really urgent..." "Hold on, let me take this call." Julian didn't even look at her. He answered the phone, his voice turning incredibly gentle. "What is it, Sera? It's not very convenient for me to talk right now, use French." "Okay, Julian. Actually, it's nothing major. I just wanted to ask when you are going to break up with Clara. I don't want you to be with her. It makes me uncomfortable to see it..." Clara had taught herself French over the past six months. Frowning, she struggled to listen. When she finally processed what Seraphina Shaw was saying on the other end, her mind completely exploded. Usually, Sera would sweetly call her 'sister-in-law' whenever they met. How did it suddenly turn into such a disgusted 'Clara'? Julian chuckled and comforted her, "What, you can't wait anymore?" "No, I just... I'm just worried that if you spend too much time with that woman, you might fall for her." Julian paused, lowered his gaze, and retorted, "I won't. I only have you in my heart. I got together with her back then just to keep her in the spotlight to protect you, you know that." Only who in his heart? Protect what? Clara's heart violently clenched, thinking she had misheard. But Sera's next words plunged her straight into an endless abyss. "True, she's just a shield you brought in to protect me. She's not worth my worry at all. Besides, after all these years, you haven't laid a finger on her. You never even spend Valentine's Day with her, you always come to accompany me. What do I have to worry about."Clara felt as if she had been struck by lightning. Whatever they said next, she couldn't hear. Her mind was entirely consumed by Sera's words, echoing over and over, stabbing at her. So, Julian was only with her to shield his foster sister, Seraphina, from public scrutiny, to cover up their illicit affair! And to think, she gave up her beloved design career to help him run the company. For him, she learned French. For him... Her vision gradually blurred. Clara couldn't stop trembling, overwhelmed by humiliation and disgrace. She bit her inner lip hard to hold back her tears. "Sorry, Clara. Sera is just like that, don't mind her." After placating Sera, Julian hung up and spoke to her apologetically. "What were you going to tell me? Let me see that document." Clara looked at him, gripped the certificate tightly, and suddenly smiled. "It's nothing, just something about a business deal I didn't quite understand. I wanted to ask you. But while you were on the phone, I figured it out. No need to ask anymore. You're busy, I'll get going." Julian was noncommittal. "Alright, if you still have questions later, just ask me." As if feeling he was being a bit dismissive, or perhaps feeling a twinge of guilt, he added, "Wait for me at home tonight." Clara thought for a second. "Sure." Tonight would be the perfect time to discuss the division of assets after their breakup! "I'm leaving." She gave a faint smile, said no more, and turned away. Julian watched her back, slowly swallowing the rest of his words. His thin lips pressed into a straight line, and his dark brows furrowed slightly. Was it his imagination? Clara seemed much colder to him. She used to love clinging to him, always having endless things to say. Julian spun his expensive fountain pen with his long fingers, then chuckled, assuming the young woman was just throwing a little tantrum. He figured he would help her look at that document tonight... and then went back to work. Leaving the CEO's office, Clara finally couldn't hold it in and burst into tears. Three years of a relationship, her heart wasn't made of stone. Standing in the elevator, she watched the red numbers counting down, while her memories with Julian played in reverse like rewinding time. She had no parents and few friends; she was a girl who severely lacked a sense of security. When she first entered society, being penniless, she worked as an assistant and encountered harassment, scandals, and many terrible things. The worst was during a business dinner when someone slipped a drug into her drink. Fortunately, Julian saw her and helped her, otherwise, that night would have left a lifelong shadow on her. Afterwards, Julian told her she could work at Lowell Industries if she wanted. She went, not because she dreamed of a meteoric rise, but because she desperately needed money and a stable job. But she never expected Julian to be so wonderful. He was gentle, refined, like a perfect gentleman. He would order food for her when she was broke at the end of the month. When she made a mistake organizing files for the first time, he didn't throw a tantrum and tell her to get lost like other bosses; instead, he offered constructive advice. He was like a sun, warming and saving her. She was destined to fall in love with such a person. But looking at it now, in this romance, she was the only one who ever truly gave her heart. Julian was just acting. Snapping back to reality, Clara's face was covered in tears. Just then, the elevator arrived, casting a shadow. Not wanting anyone to see her in such a miserable state, she lowered her head and rushed out in a panic. Unexpectedly, she bumped into a firm arm. "I'm sorry," she apologized and hurriedly fled. "What is that girl in such a rush for," complained someone flattering the man beside him. "Mr. Jarrett, are you alright?"Dominic Jarrett maintained a cold and composed expression. His long fingers brushed his sleeve as he said, "It's nothing. Let's go." "Alright... Please step into the elevator first." "Thank you." Dominic gave a reserved nod and stepped into the elevator. When he turned around, he happened to see Clara's retreating figure. Under the warm winter sun, she wore an apricot coat. Her black hair cascaded softly over her shoulders, swaying gracefully as she walked. She looked serene and gentle. It made one involuntarily recall the fleeting, beautiful side profile he had just caught a glimpse of. His heart suddenly felt a tug—not painful, but impossible to ignore. Snapping back, Dominic couldn't help but frown, refusing to let himself think too much. Sarah West had passed away three years ago. That girl merely had a side profile that resembled hers! After Clara left the company, it was still snowing outside, the cold wind blowing harshly. But no matter how cold it was, it couldn't compare to the chill in her heart. Not wanting to go home, she found a cafe and sat down. She ordered a latte. Not long after she sat down, her phone suddenly rang. Clara snapped out of her daze, shifted her gaze away from the window, wiped a tear from her eye, and answered the call. "Hello, Leo." The man on the other end paused, then scoffed, "You still know to call me your senior, then why don't you ever call me? If I don't call you, you never call." Clara couldn't help but smile. "You're right, Leo. I'll definitely keep it in mind next time." "Hmph." After exchanging a few pleasantries, the man brought up the main topic, "For the design exhibition in three days, should I save a ticket for you as usual?" Clara paused. "Yes." "Every time I give you a ticket, you never show up." "I will definitely attend this time." "Huh? Did I hear that right?" Clara lowered her eyes, having made up her mind. "I've thought it through. I'm preparing to return to the design circle. In a few days, I'm also planning to leave Capital City and develop my career in Somerset." "What!!" Clara took a deep breath and told him what happened that morning. After hearing it, even with his good temper, the man couldn't help but curse out loud. "Is Julian a beast? Treating you like that." "Alright, I support your return to the design world. I'll go tell our professor later; he values you so much, he'll definitely be thrilled. As for moving to Somerset, I actually have a suggestion. Since the exhibition is in three days, why don't you use the opportunity to reveal your identity, and then head to Somerset after it ends?" Clara thought it was a viable plan. They chatted for a while longer before hanging up. Just then, a message popped up. It was from Julian: [Clara, I negotiated a project with Jarrett Global from Somerset today. Go to The Sterling Hotel tomorrow at noon to entertain Mr. Jarrett.] Work again. It seemed he only came to her when it was about work. Clara curled her lips in mockery. She didn't refuse, though. After all, when they split the assets, she was entitled to her share. Clara: [Okay.] Her response was concise. She didn't shamelessly try to show concern for him after discussing work, like she used to. Julian was silent for a moment on the other end: [Alright, I'll have Arthur send you the location in a bit. Also, here are the project files. Take a look.] [File] Clara: [Received.] She didn't reply further. Julian didn't bother her again either. Clara gripped her phone a little tighter and tapped open the file. With one glance, she froze when she saw the client's name was Dominic Jarrett. Then, she frantically pulled out the printed certificate from her bag and compared them. She stared at it for a full five times. Her 'husband's' name and Mr. Jarrett's name were exactly the same! Shocked, Clara opened her browser and searched for photos of Jarrett Global's CEO. She couldn't find any; it was clear his identity was kept strictly confidential, given his status. Clara sighed softly. Realizing how silly she was acting, she amusingly patted her own head. "What am I thinking? It's definitely just people sharing the same name." As for that bizarre certificate, she figured the machine must have malfunctioned and made a mistake.