Chapter 781

Emmanuel arrived at Terence Group a little before 6 p.m., only to learn that Mackenzie had already gone home. He was puzzled. Is she okay? he wondered. This has never happened before.

With a hint of worry, Emmanuel hurried home. Upon opening the door, he found Mackenzie slouching on the couch, her beautiful eyes half-closed, seemingly asleep. A pang of heartache struck him. After being married for over three months, this was the first time he had seen her looking so tired.

Concerned she might be uncomfortable, Emmanuel gently tried to lift her to put her in bed. To his surprise, Mackenzie was still awake. Just as he placed his hand on her shoulder, she opened her eyes.

Seeing her alert expression, Emmanuel felt embarrassed and quickly explained, “I only meant to carry you to bed.” Mackenzie’s gaze sharpened. Only then did Emmanuel realize his words were ambiguous, so he added, “I wanted to carry you to bed to sleep. This position isn't comfortable!”

Feeling Mackenzie was still looking at him strangely, Emmanuel grew frustrated. How did this become such a misunderstanding?

“That’s alright. I won’t sleep anymore,” Mackenzie said. She knew he didn't mean it that way; she just thought he was foolish. Has he really never considered sleeping with me? she mused.

“Okay then, if you’re too tired, you should wash up and go to bed early,” Emmanuel said, releasing her shoulder.

Suddenly, Mackenzie remembered Wally had brought in a bag of peaches earlier, leaving it on the table. Feeling thirsty after dozing, she asked, “Emmanuel, can you help me wash the peaches?”

What?! Emmanuel thought he was hallucinating. What did she ask me to help wash?! Has our marital relationship progressed this far?

“What’s wrong? Can’t you?” Mackenzie sat up, lazily stretching. Her figure was striking.

“Um… Is this really okay?” Emmanuel, usually impervious to female charms, became nervous. His body tensed. Is she testing me?

“What’s wrong? Don’t you want to?” Mackenzie asked, her eyebrows furrowed.

“I… I do,” Emmanuel stammered, swallowing nervously. She seems serious. Is she too tired to wash them herself?

Mackenzie, assuming he'd seen the peaches, stood and turned, saying, “I’ll brush my teeth first, then!” She had a penchant for cleanliness, always brushing her teeth before eating after a nap.

“Wait!” Emmanuel stopped her.

“What’s the matter?” Mackenzie turned. Every moment with her is beautiful, he thought.

“How do you usually wash? Do you want to use the bathtub?” It was his first time helping her, and he couldn't be careless.

Mackenzie paused. Understanding his misunderstanding, she wondered if he had the audacity to proceed. He didn’t see the peaches, did he? She decided to test him.

“No need for the bathtub!” Mackenzie said, revealing a teasing smile before gracefully walking away. Chaos!

Chapter 782

Emmanuel’s heart pounded. He’d thought, at most, she’d ask for help with a bath, but she wasn’t even using the tub. She’s serious about wanting me to scrub her, isn’t she? The thought sent shivers down his spine. Good heavens, she must be sick!

Since she’d asked, he complied. While Mackenzie brushed her teeth, he prepared the bathroom, adjusting the water temperature and gathering shower gel and a sponge. Imagining her nude before him, needing his assistance, his heart raced. He wouldn't have dared dream of this before. Today, I can finally openly appreciate my wife's beautiful body… He wondered if she had other plans after the shower. Has Grandpa pressured her about a pregnancy again?

His racing heart grew more chaotic. He walked out of the bathroom and bumped into Mackenzie.

“What’s wrong? You seem a little off,” she said with a mischievous smile.

“I… I’m fine. I’m ready to help you with your shower!” Emmanuel avoided her gaze.

“Do you need such formal preparations for washing peaches?” Mackenzie pointed to the bag of peaches. “I meant washing those peaches. Where did your mind wander?”

Emmanuel, regaining his composure, said, “Ms. Quillen, you are my legal wife. Isn’t it normal for a husband to misunderstand? You have a great figure, delicate skin, and an inexplicable allure that attracts me. I enjoy admiring your body, and I crave your touch, okay?! Is this answer satisfactory?”

Mackenzie stared icily at him. How dare he! She would have slapped another man, but a strange flutter stirred in her heart. His candor made her avoid his gaze.

Emmanuel wanted to drag her to the bathroom, but his courage faltered. He blushed, saying, “Since the water’s ready, Mackenzie, you shower. I’ll wash the peaches!”

Mackenzie snorted, turned away, and remained silent, her heart quickening. I wonder if he'd dare pull me into the bathroom. But he didn't, walking past her instead.

“Coward!” she muttered, entering the bathroom.

Emmanuel face-palmed, regretting his words. How dare I tell the Ice Queen I crave her body?! I must be out of my mind!

Chapter 783

“Jaxton, a man should speak with more decorum, especially when addressing his wife!” Sebastian scolded his son. Jaxton looked sullen but obeyed. Jennifer’s gaze was ominous. Her priorities differed from the men’s; she focused on her position within the family. Sebastian’s praise of Roselynn, coupled with Jaxton’s plan to bring her back, worried her. Would she have to live according to her daughter-in-law’s whims? No way! Jessica remained silent, her expression icy.

Roselynn’s palms sweated as she faced the family, forcing a smile.

Chapter 783: The Oatleys’ Sudden Visit

“Oh, Mr. and Mrs. Oatley, what brings you here? Please come in!” Alessandra invited them in.

“Hello, Mrs. Lowe. Sorry for the intrusion!” Sebastian said politely. The Oatley siblings nodded and entered. Jennifer ignored Alessandra. She saw a class barrier between herself and the rural woman.

Their visit stemmed from Sebastian’s pressure and Jennifer’s desire to resolve Jaxton’s marriage. If Roselynn continued to be haughty, Jennifer wouldn't tolerate it.

After they entered, Alessandra instructed, “Roselynn, chat with your husband’s family while I make some tea.”

Chapter 783: The Oatleys’ Sudden Visit (continued)

Roselynn, however, didn't comply. She'd always been independent and disliked being taken advantage of. “You’re not treating me like a daughter-in-law but rather a servant!”

“You—how dare you!” Jennifer almost struck her. No daughter-in-law could defy her like this. Her reaction stemmed from Roselynn’s lack of seriousness towards Jaxton and her belief that Roselynn caused his amusement park injury. He’d been bedridden for days, and she hadn’t visited.

“Jennifer, be polite!” Sebastian stopped her, then smiled at Alessandra. “Apologies, Mrs. Lowe. My wife is just too concerned about our son.”

“Oh, is Jaxton alright?” Alessandra showed concern.

Chapter 784

“It’s nothing, just two fractures,” Jaxton said with a peculiar expression.

“Hmph, it’s all because of your daughter that my son got injured!” Jennifer raged. “Jaxton jumped to protect her!”

Alessandra looked confused. This differed from Roselynn’s account. Roselynn was infuriated. She’d spared Jaxton in her account, only mentioning everyone was fine and they’d jumped separately. This shameless man claims he was injured protecting her?!

No wonder Jennifer is so hostile. It’s all because of this shameless bastard!

Seeing Roselynn’s fierce gaze, Jaxton said, “Mom, actually, my injury has nothing to do with Roselynn…”

“Enough, don’t defend her!” Jennifer yelled. “Marriage isn’t just about love! We’ve come to clarify things!” She glared at Alessandra. “Should this marriage continue or not?”

Alessandra wanted the marriage to last but didn’t want to pressure Roselynn, looking at her pleadingly.

Roselynn confronted them. “Don’t think I don’t know you’ve been waiting to confront us because you want to use my brother's influence.”

Chapter 784: Mackenzie Shows Up

The Oatleys shivered. Mackenzie’s aristocratic aura was intimidating.

“Mrs. Oatley, are you suggesting that my family should seek favors from yours?” Mackenzie’s chilling demeanor intimidated Jennifer.

Jennifer, timid, dared not speak. How dare she boast in front of Mackenzie, the Quillen heiress?!

“No, no, no, Ms. Quillen, please don’t misunderstand!” Sebastian quickly said. “Women don’t know better. I will reprimand her when I get back!”

Mackenzie grew colder. “I am also a woman, so are you implying that I also don’t know better?”

Chapter 785

Mackenzie emerged from the bathroom, smelling nice. She picked up a peach and took a bite, eating gracefully. Emmanuel gawked. Her figure was alluring. Despite their shared physiology, something about her was different.

“It’s quite sweet. Do you want some?” Mackenzie asked.

Emmanuel averted his gaze, feeling uneasy. “I’ve already had some; it’s indeed quite sweet.”

Mackenzie smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. The fatigue vanished. Perhaps, this is one of the benefits of marriage?

“Let’s go home together tomorrow.”

“Home? Whose home?” Emmanuel asked, surprised.

“What do you think?” Mackenzie smiled. Emmanuel’s excitement grew.

Chapter 785: Visit Home (continued)

Roselynn: "Mom, are you aware that a lot of companies have terminated their cooperation with Terence Group?"

Emmanuel: "Yes, I am aware. Mackenzie has been extremely exhausted recently. There is a mysterious force working against Terence Group."

Roselynn: "Manny, do you think Mackenzie is considering a collaboration with the Oatleys?"

Emmanuel: "It's possible. The Oatleys' company specializes in refining and processing technology, and many related industries have terminated their cooperation with Terence Group."

Emmanuel gave his sister some wise advice, "Sis, don't you worry too much about Mackenzie. The Quillens have deep roots in Yeringham. It's extremely difficult for anyone to bring them down."

Roselynn: “If you really want to cooperate with Terence Group, Mr. Oatley, please come to our headquarters tomorrow at 3 p.m.,”

Chapter 786

Alessandra received a call from Emmanuel and eagerly awaited their arrival. She prepared soup before noon. Roselynn, still in pajamas, thought it was for lunch.

“Mom, it’s nearly lunch. Why are you only making soup now?”

“Shoo, this is for dinner. Mackenzie and Emmanuel are coming home!”

“Tsk, tsk…” Roselynn said, “Mom, I’ll make sure to be your daughter-in-law in my next life!”

“Get out of here. You’re acting as if I’ve mistreated you. What daughter still lives with her mother at 30?!”

Roselynn retreated to her room. Alessandra sighed. Roselynn constantly returned home, inviting ridicule. Roselynn’s mood wasn’t great either. She considered confiding in her brother, but then saw news about Terence Group’s declining partnerships. She contacted Emmanuel.

Chapter 786: Helping Mackenzie (continued)

Roselynn: "Emmanuel, have you seen the news? Mackenzie's company is in a dire situation, isn't it?"

Emmanuel: "Yeah, probably! Mackenzie has been extremely exhausted lately. There must be a lot of trouble. There's a mysterious force that's opposing the Terence Group in the dark!"

Emmanuel suspected it was the Zelinsky family but had no way to help.

Roselynn: "Manny, do you think Mackenzie might be considering a collaboration with the Oatleys?"

Emmanuel considered it possible but didn’t want to pressure Roselynn into sacrificing her happiness for Mackenzie. He reassured her, “Sis, you don’t need to worry about Mackenzie. The Quillens have deep roots. It would be extremely difficult for anyone to bring them down.”

Chapter 786: Helping Mackenzie (continued)

Roselynn understood but was still apprehensive. She genuinely cared for Mackenzie and wanted to help.

By 5 p.m., Alessandra was watching the clock. Her fondness for Mackenzie exceeded that for her own daughter. She knew Mackenzie had helped her family immensely.

Chapter 787

Mackenzie entered the living room, her hair damp. She ate a peach gracefully. Emmanuel gawked. Her nightwear highlighted her alluring figure.

“It’s quite sweet. Do you want some?” Mackenzie asked.

Emmanuel avoided her gaze. “I’ve already had some.” Mackenzie smiled, pleased she could make even a gynecologist crave her. The fatigue vanished.

“Let’s go home together tomorrow.”

“Home? Whose home?” Emmanuel asked, surprised.

“What do you think?” Mackenzie smiled. Emmanuel’s excitement grew.

“Ms. Quillen, are you suggesting that my family should seek favors from yours?” Mackenzie’s chilling demeanor intimidated the Oatleys.

Chapter 787 (continued)

Sebastian: “What? No, no, no! Please don’t misunderstand, Ms. Quillen. I was just referring to my woman!”

Jennifer and the other Oatleys tensed up. They experienced Mackenzie's power firsthand.

Mackenzie ignored them and turned to Alessandra with a faint smile. “Mom, Emmanuel and I are back for dinner.”

“Wonderful! I’ll set the table right away!” Alessandra was delighted. She patted Mackenzie's hand before walking away. Roselynn was crushed and glanced at Jennifer with disappointment and anger.

Chapter 787 (continued)

Roselynn didn't expect her mother-in-law to be doting, but she wished she wouldn't be condescending. Jennifer clenched her fists. Even her husband feared Mackenzie. Roselynn's connection to the Quillens gave her leverage.

Hmph, just you wait, Roselynn Lowe. I will make sure you suffer the day you lose your backing! Jennifer thought.

The Lowes gathered for dinner. Mackenzie offered to help with chores, but Alessandra stopped her. The Oatleys showed no intention of helping. After Mackenzie arrived, Jennifer dropped her pretense of being a noble lady. She sat down, no longer worried about dirtying her clothes.

Sebastian seized the opportunity to build rapport with Mackenzie. Many envied the Oatleys' chance to connect with the Quillen heiress.

Chapter 788

Emmanuel and Roselynn came out with the dishes and saw the scene. Seeing Mackenzie showing Sebastian respect, Emmanuel thought Terence Group might be collaborating with the Oatleys.

“Come, let’s sit down and have a meal together!” Alessandra said. It was a rare occasion for the families to be together.

Jennifer didn’t dare speak out of turn after Mackenzie arrived. Sebastian responded, “You’re speaking my mind, Mrs. Lowe! The marriage of our two children is a bridge of fate.”

Alessandra agreed. “Mr. Oatley, I’m not as educated as you, and I speak a bit plainly. I might have spoiled my daughter, and she has a rather independent and obstinate personality. She doesn’t know how to accommodate others, so please bear with her!”

Chapter 788 (continued)

Emmanuel and Roselynn watched, suspecting Terence Group's potential collaboration with the Oatleys. Mackenzie's respect for Sebastian implied this. Alessandra, oblivious to the nuances of high society, focused on family harmony. She felt happy seeing both families together.

Alessandra turned to Sebastian and Jennifer, "Mr. and Mrs. Oatley, since you're here, let's discuss the children's marriage!"

Chapter 788 (continued)

Jennifer remained silent. Mackenzie was Jennifer's natural enemy. Sebastian said, "The marriage of our two children is a bridge of fate built by our ancestors in heaven. Young people might not fully grasp the value of this fate, but as experienced individuals, we should give them a helping hand!"

Alessandra expressed her hope for a happy marriage between Roselynn and Jaxton. Sebastian saw this as an opportunity to establish a close relationship with the Quillens, especially during their difficult time. If they could form a union through marriage, help the Quillens overcome their challenges, and regain their peak status, the Oatleys would benefit immensely.

Chapter 788 (continued)

"Look, Roselynn, not only Jaxton but even his father treats you so well. Why are you still picking fights with them?" Alessandra urged her daughter. Emmanuel and Mackenzie remained silent, not wanting to influence Roselynn's decision.

"Okay, I'm willing to return to the Oatley family!" Roselynn declared. "But I have three conditions that you must agree to!" Jaxton's face lit up.

Chapter 789

Sebastian: "Roselynn, if you have any conditions, just go ahead and say it!" Jennifer remained silent, knowing Roselynn might make outrageous demands.

Roselynn: "First, from now on, your family must respect my family, especially my mother!"

The crowd trembled. Alessandra: "Roselynn, what are you talking about? The Oatleys have always respected me!"

Roselynn thought otherwise. She noted Jennifer's lack of respect—ignoring her mother, refusing the tea, etc.

Sebastian: "Haha, that's a given!"

Chapter 789 (continued)

Roselynn's second condition was for Jaxton to stop being a mama's boy. This shocked everyone. Jaxton nodded, realizing his mother had been a burden in their marriage.

Roselynn’s third condition: “After marriage, each person’s property remains independent. Even in case of divorce, the assets won’t be split!”

The Oatleys were astonished again. Jennifer silently laughed. What property could her family have that the Oatleys would covet?

Chapter 790

Jennifer found Roselynn’s third condition advantageous. She knew Roselynn was proud and their family possessed little the Oatleys desired. Sebastian readily agreed.

Mackenzie observed, noticing the Oatleys' reaction to the third condition, contrasting with Roselynn’s calm determination. Does she believe she'll earn more than the Oatleys in the future?

Roselynn: “Good, since you’ve agreed, I’ll write down the three conditions, and we can all sign and stamp it after that. We’ll live according to the agreement from now on!” Sebastian focused on the chance to cooperate with the Quillens.

Chapter 790: Hitch a Ride With Terence Group (continued)

Sebastian: "Ms. Quillen, I heard that Terence Group is looking for a partner in energy refining technology. Since we're in-laws, can we discuss the possibility of collaboration?"

Mackenzie: "If you genuinely want to cooperate with Terence Group, Mr. Oatley, please come to our headquarters tomorrow at 3 p.m."

Sebastian was initially disappointed but quickly regained his smile. The Oatleys rejoiced, seeing a chance to ride Terence Group's success.

Alessandra focused on her children's happiness and wanted them to start eating. Sebastian laughed heartily.

Chapter 790 (continued)

Alessandra: "Mr. and Mrs. Oatley, since you are here today, let's talk about the children's marriage!"

Sebastian: "The marriage of our two children is a bridge of fate built by our ancestors in heaven."

Alessandra admitted to spoiling Roselynn, acknowledging her independent and obstinate personality.

Chapter 790 (continued)

Sebastian was eager to cooperate with the Quillens, seeing the opportunity presented by their current difficulties. He aimed to leverage the marriage to benefit the Oatleys significantly.

Alessandra urged Roselynn to reconcile with the Oatleys, emphasizing the importance of the marriage. Emmanuel and Mackenzie remained silent, avoiding pressure on Roselynn.

Roselynn: "Okay, I'm willing to return to the Oatley family! But I have three conditions that you must agree to!"

Later, Alessandra whispered to Emmanuel, "If you really want to be a dutiful son to me, hurry up and give me a grandchild with Mackenzie. I won't be lonely anymore when I look after your baby, no?" Emmanuel chuckled nervously.