Addison drove back to the villa, tossing the keys onto the entryway counter as she walked in, her mood turned bad as she sank into the couch. Nothing had gone her way these past few days. Just then, a message came in from Keith. Addison opened it without much thought. It was news about an international pharmaceutical research center recruiting collaborators. "They specifically requested you. Do you have time to participate?" Addison raised an eyebrow and typed back, "Did you tell them I was back?" It had only been a few days since she left the Johnstons, and Keith had already rushed to announce her return. She didn't have much time to rest, and the divorce was still unresolved. The thought of diving back into work felt overwhelming. Yet, part of her was intrigued. Before, she'd been forced to abandon her pharmaceutical research to keep her identity hidden from the Johnstons. Now, with the opportunity presenting itself again, she couldn't help but feel a bit tempted. Addison clicked on the news details, which were about the latest direction in the research of neuro-related drugs. "You haven't participated in research for three years. Don't you miss it?" Keith's response was carefully worded, avoiding the main issue. He knew exactly what Addison was thinking, three years with the Johnstons without touching any pharmaceutical work must have been driving her crazy. Seeing the message, Addison raised an eyebrow. Amazing. It's like Keith could read my mind. This particular field was new to her and looked quite challenging. However, she had written papers on the topic before, so as long as she could recall the main concepts, it wouldn't be too hard. She loved challenges! Addison replied with a simple OK gesture. The thought of getting back to something she was passionate about lifted her mood. Just as she sent the message, Marilyn's call came through. "Mrs. Johnston, is everything alright?" Addison answered the phone with a gentle tone. Even though Lance had really upset her today, Marilyn had always treated her well, and Addison wasn't the type to take her frustration out on others."Addison, I want to see you tomorrow. Are you free?" Addison could hear the slight nervousness in Marilyn's voice. "I'm free. Just send me the location, Mrs. Johnston. I don't have much on my plate," Addison said while tidying up her newly purchased items, placing each one neatly in its spot. She knew Marilyn wanted to talk her into reconsidering things. Though she wasn't likely to change her mind, Addison didn't want to disrespect Marilyn by declining the invitation. Besides, it would be a good chance to say goodbye properly. The next day, Addison woke up early and headed to the restaurant, well-prepared for her meeting. She ordered dishes that matched Marilyn's dietary preferences, opting for lighter dishes that Marilyn enjoyed. As Marilyn entered the restaurant and spotted her daughter-in-law already seated with the meal ready, her admiration for Addison deepened. How could Lance not see what a wonderful wife he has? Addison looked up and saw Marilyn at the door of the private room. She quickly stood to greet her. "Mrs. Johnston, please, have a seat." As Marilyn sat down, she gazed at her gentle and devoted daughter-in-law, feeling a mix of emotions and unsure how to start the conversation. Addison picked up the serving spoon and placed a few dishes into Marilyn's bowl. "Mrs. Johnston, I ordered all your favorites. Please give them a try. "If there's anything you want to say, just say it. I don't mind," Addison said, getting up again to take a water pitcher from the server. She poured a cup of water and handed it to Marilyn. Marilyn took the cup, nervously rubbing her fingers over it before speaking. "Addison, I'll get straight to the point and not waste your time." "Lance has a bad temper, and as his mother, I know this. Over the years, you're the only one who has been able to tolerate his temper. "Anyone else wouldn't put up with him. Addison, you truly are a good person ... " Addison listened quietly, refraining from interrupting. Marilyn's words held little weight for her. Addison had already resolved to end it all. It was time to put an end to three years of dreams and face reality. "Addison, have you really decided to divorce Lance?" Marilyn hesitated but finally asked the question. She knew how much Addison loved Lance—everything she had done over the past three years was proof of that. Still, knowing that her daughter-in-law had gathered the courage to choose divorce, Marilyn sensed that Addison must be hesitant in her heart. "I'll go back and talk to him. Lance isn't a bad person at heart." Addison set down her cup, her gentle tone laced with determination. "Mrs. Johnston, if you're hoping to change my mind today, you might as well give up. I've made my decision." Marilyn carefully studied Addison's expression but saw no signs of hesitation. She sighed. "There's a reason for Lance's cold personality." After hesitating for a moment, Marilyn reached into her bag and pulled out a photograph. It featured two boys. The photo was a little yellowed and wrinkled, and it was obvious that it was often held in the hands. She stroked the photo with sad gazes. Addison's eyes were attracted by her and he looked at it subconsciously. Once she realized what the photo showed, her movements came to an abrupt stop. It featured two boys. One was slightly older, smiling warmly, while the younger one looked cold, lacking any smile. They looked remarkably alike. Addison immediately recognized the younger boy. Harvey Johnston.