Chapter 95: You've Suffered

Maggie stared, stunned, at the bouquet in her hands. It was vibrant, a beautiful shade of amber, unlike any she’d seen before. She recognized orchids and golden birds nestled among peonies and sunflowers; snake vines and flame lilies completed the arrangement. The striking colors were uplifting just to look at.

“Who sent this?” Maggie’s gaze dropped to the card. It simply read, “Happy…”—the rest unfinished.

The delivery driver shook his head. “The customer didn’t leave a name. Please sign here.”

After signing, Maggie carefully examined the elegant, bold handwriting. Back in her dormitory, she retrieved the transfer contract Ronald had given her. Most of the assets were handled, leaving only a few she couldn't recall from her past life—items she had other plans for. Remembering correctly, Nathael’s handwriting should be on the contract’s sticky note. She placed the card and sticky note side-by-side, comparing the script.

Hesitantly, she texted Nathael: "Thank you for the flowers."

He replied, after a while, his response stark: "What flowers?"

"277"

Maggie again compared the card and sticky note. While slightly different, certain small habits were unmistakable. He hadn't wanted to change them, she realized.

Resting her chin on her hand, she studied the bouquet, pursing her lips. If it weren't from him, she'd eat the flowers. Seeing his reluctance to admit it, she didn't press further.

Nathael waited, growing impatient at Maggie’s silence. He checked their chat history, realizing his words had been a bit harsh. She hadn’t intended to probe or prolong the conversation.

Scoffing at himself, he switched off his phone. Whether it was true or not, it didn't matter to her.

"Mr. Harris, I've sent you the photos," Alex announced after a phone call.

Moments later, several photos arrived on Nathael’s phone. The first showed the entire graduating class; Maggie stood behind him, playfully making bunny ears over his head, a mischievous glint in her eyes. The next was of the two of them together. Maggie stood beside him, her hands positioned awkwardly. Her smile, though cautious, was natural and beautiful. He seemed aware of her distance, gazing at her gently—unaware of the doting look in his eyes. In the final photo, they were closer, Maggie leaning slightly toward him, seemingly speaking. She smiled; he listened patiently. It was a lovely scene. Nathael's irritation at Maggie faded as he looked at the photos, his gaze softening.

He saved them, but found himself returning to them repeatedly. Finally, he murmured softly, "Happy graduation!"

Meanwhile, Maggie stared at the bouquet, Beth’s words echoing relentlessly in her mind. She knew she shouldn't let the manipulative woman influence her, but her lack of understanding regarding Nathael made her hesitate. She'd researched seafood allergies online; severe cases could be fatal. She wasn't sure if Nathael had such an allergy, nor its severity. Reflecting on it, she realized how little she truly knew about him.

With her presumptuous attempts at reconciliation, did she deserve to be with him?

Resting her head on the table, troubled, she eventually pushed those thoughts aside, picking up her sketchbook to draw.

In addition to the Camerons' assignments, Maggie juggled several private jobs—unknown to the Camerons—and oversaw two companies she owned. She was too busy to dwell on the turmoil.

At two o'clock, a call from an unknown number interrupted her frantic sketching.

A gentle male voice said, "Ms. Adam, this is Ericko. Are you free to meet?"

Maggie, momentarily surprised, agreed. Ericko had finally contacted her; her plan hadn't failed.

An hour later, at a coffee shop near the school, Ericko, dressed in a crisp white shirt and khaki pants, sat waiting by the window.

"Mr. Adam," Maggie greeted softly, taking a seat opposite him.

Ericko turned from the window, smiling at her. "Maggie."

The single word spoke volumes.

Maggie realized her brother's brilliance. Working with intelligent people meant some things didn't need explicit explanation. His use of her name confirmed he'd uncovered her identity.

Tears welled in Maggie's eyes. She whispered, "Brother."

Ericko's heart softened. She was beautiful, resembling their parents, but bearing a stronger resemblance to him—more endearing, more attractive. He was momentarily lost in thought, vaguely remembering her as a delicate doll in a shop window, a child he’d doted on and sworn to protect. He hadn't expected the hardships she'd endured for his sake, her years of separation from them.

"You've suffered a lot," Ericko said solemnly, his eyes also filled with tears. He was happy to see her safe and sound, allowing him to finally make amends.