Chapter 292: The Origin

Maggie's injuries were mostly superficial; the most severe resulted from a fall, but Nathael had protected her well. Despite their frightening appearance, the injuries were not life-threatening. After her wounds were treated, Mia and Joyce helped her freshen up and change clothes before she returned to the operating room. Ericko waited nearby with another man.

Jimmy leaned casually against a wall in the corridor, his arms crossed, looking weary. His striking features—a captivating blend of charm and fierceness—exuded intrigue and sophistication. Hearing Maggie approach, he looked up. His eyes met the woman beside her, and he froze.

She possessed a naturally beautiful face, a gentle complexion, and cold, clear eyes. Her nose was straight, and she radiated a distant yet gentle aura. Joyce met his gaze; their eyes locked, leaving them both momentarily stunned. Caught off guard, Joyce’s throat tightened. She quickly averted her gaze, concealing her emotions.

Jimmy chuckled, his eyes glinting mischievously, yet a hint of malice lurked beneath the surface. As Joyce guided Maggie toward the operating room, passing Jimmy, she stumbled. Jimmy reached out, catching her wrist and pulling her close.

"Ms. Sanders," he whispered coldly into her ear, "it's been a while."

The familiar yet unfamiliar voice stunned Joyce, sending a chill down her spine. Looking up at his handsome face, she said slowly, "Mr. Hansen, please let go. Thank you."

His grip remained firm; his knuckles whitened, mirroring the reddening of Joyce's wrist. Jimmy sneered, his gaze darkening. "Didn't I tell you never to appear before me again?" he hissed.

The surgery stretched on past midnight, leaving Maggie disoriented.

Chapter 292: The Origin (continued)

It was Nathael's birthday, but they spent it in the hospital. Maggie had planned numerous surprises, but unforeseen circumstances altered her plans. Many things proved unpredictable.

Holding the brooch, she opened the box with one hand, leaning against the wall, gazing blankly at it. Ericko brought her warm congee and sat beside her. "You should eat something," he said softly.

"I have no appetite," Maggie replied softly, without looking up.

Ericko gently held her hand. "Why not go home? I worry about your safety at the Camerons'," he said. Maggie's pale face showed little color.

Seeing his concern, she smiled faintly. "I'm tempted, but it's not possible," she murmured.

Without the "Dream Venom," she might consider returning to the Adams' protection, living peacefully. But things had changed. If her time was short, why sadden her parents by returning? What once brought joy now brought sorrow. It was better to remain absent than cause more pain.

"Mom and Dad are worried," Ericko said again. Even though her parents didn't know her true identity, they cared for her.

"I'll spend more time with them when I return," Maggie replied softly, politely refusing to go back to the Adams.

Ericko's tone grew serious. "Maggie, Ronald is cunning. I worry about your safety at the Camerons'." "Ericko, I've been fine all these years. Don't worry," Maggie reassured him softly.

Seeing her resolve, Ericko knew he couldn't change her mind. Worry was evident in his eyes, even behind his glasses.

"Ericko," Maggie said, changing the subject, "do you know much about Nathael… and Timothy?"

At the mention of Timothy, Ericko fell silent before speaking gently. "Timothy's father was Charlie, the fifth son of Old Mr. Harris. From a young age, Charlie was intelligent but reckless. Unlike his brothers, he didn't pursue business or politics; he was a sculptor. The Harris family's wealth allowed him to live a lavish, playboy lifestyle."

Old Mr. Harris, angered by his son's choices, arranged a marriage to Emilia, a distinguished woman from the Finleys. Emilia was well-educated and had studied abroad. They seemed a perfect match, both talented and attractive.

Chapter 292: The Origin (continued)

At that time, Charlie hadn't yet met his true love. To appease Old Mr. Harris, he agreed to the marriage. Their relationship began well; they even had a son, Jay, the following year. Jay was born healthy but later fell ill and weakened. Doctors suggested having another child whose blood might help Jay recover.

Maggie was stunned. "Was Timothy their second child?" she asked.

"Yes," Ericko replied solemnly. "However, Timothy's arrival was unfortunate. While Emilia was pregnant, Charlie fell in love with a painter—his soulmate."

Ericko continued, detailing the devoted love of the former playboy. Despite everything, Charlie wanted to divorce Emilia and marry his true love. Old Mr. Harris was furious; Emilia felt betrayed. Old Mr. Harris couldn't entirely control his son, though he tried. He cut off Charlie's income and barred him from any industry, but Charlie's sculpting flourished. He and his lover lived comfortably by selling their work on the black market.

The Finleys, a renowned family, couldn't tolerate their daughter's humiliation. Old Mr. Harris sent the woman abroad to appease them. Charlie disappeared. His lack of business dealings made him difficult to trace despite a thorough search. Old Mr. Harris threatened Charlie with the woman's safety, forcing him to return to a strained life with Emilia.

But how could he settle for someone else after finding true love? His troubles led him to drown his sorrows in alcohol, spending weeks carving in his workshop, growing increasingly distant from Emilia.

(The final line "Send Gifts 70 C" appears to be unrelated and should be removed.)