They say that second chances at love are better in every way.

Two longtime friends who had feelings for each other in the past went their own ways to satisfy each other's needs, and now they find themselves back together.

In fact, the only thing that can satisfy a heart's desire is completing oneself.

As Gideon cast a peek in Addison's direction, he masked the feeling he had been suppressing.

He desired to wrap his arms around the woman and keep her to himself.

As Addison took a quick glimpse at the man and said, "Gideon?" her jaw fell in shock at the unexpected revelation.

She narrowed her eyes to ensure that her brain wasn't playing tricks on her because she hadn't heard anything about the man since they parted ways. She repeatedly blinked to ensure her eyes weren't playing tricks on her.

When Gideon laughed, Addison was startled and immediately returned to the present.

She reflected on how much she cared for the man sitting beside her.

Her heart continued to race at the same rate, and she knew that the only person who could make her feel this way was Gideon Harris, the boy she had loved initially as a teenager.

-FLASHBACK-

"Are you serious? Me? You wanted to go on a date with me?" Addison scowled and pointed at Gideon, who was grinning to himself.

"Come on, Addison, do I look like I'm going to spout some kind words in your direction? I really mean this. I will continue to pursue our relationship despite your refusal. Gideon whispered something under his breath as he moved closer to Addison. Each time Gideon took a step closer, Addison retreated until she was close enough to the library shelf to feel the texture of the thick books.

As Addison felt a flutter in her tummy, which caused her to become short of breath, she averted her sight.

Addison was the only close friend that Gideon Harris had in college, and up until this point, Addison had no idea how the two of them first became friends. Gideon Harris had a reputation on campus for being a playboy.

After getting to know Gideon, Addison realized he was good-natured. On the surface, he may appear cruel and naive, but deep down, he is caring, ambitious, and twisted. To earn the man's trust, all that was required was for another person to comprehend his emotions.

When Addison is around, Gideon can relax and enjoy the peace that comes with her presence. He fell even further in love with her as he learned more about her feminism and passion. In addition, he had a sense of liberation and transformed into his authentic self. The woman never gave any indication that she was repulsed. Consequently, she will laugh and talk about the things that have happened to her in her life.

It was clear to Addison that she felt the same way about Gideon. On the other hand, Landon Baker put a lot of faith in her. While still in school, she couldn't afford to put her feelings first. She had high aspirations of becoming a physician and didn't want her parents to be disappointed in her.

At first, Addison was hesitant to spend more time with Gideon; however, as they spent more time together, Addison realized that Gideon had changed; he was no longer a playboy, and he always put her ahead of anything else in his priorities. This made Addison realize that she should spend more time with Gideon. They would get together, hang out occasionally, and make trips together.

Addison was under the impression that nothing would change. Her academic performance suffered as a result, and she put the responsibility on herself for spending so much time with Gideon. Therefore, she made a choice even though it went against her instincts. Addison went looking for Gideon to talk to him about her predicament, and she requested him to allow her some space so that she could improve her failing grades.

When Addison finally caught a glimpse of the man she had been searching for, she was taken aback. When she saw Gideon smiling with another woman in the hallway as if they were the only people there, her heart broke into a thousand pieces.

"What exactly do you anticipate from him?" Men are nothing but filth, plain and simple. Addison thought Gideon was a playboy, exactly like her father, who had many different mistresses. She swore that her heart would never be in danger again. She let out a bitter laugh before turning and walking away with her heart broken.

Since then, Addison has been avoiding Gideon, which frustrates him. Gideon had no idea what could have caused Addison to behave antagonistically toward him.

"I don't understand. Why are you trying to get away from me in this way, Addison? Everything was normal between us the last time we chatted, but after that, you started avoiding me like the plague!" Each drop of rain causes Addison's body to become increasingly chilly.

Both of them were saturated thanks to the relentless rain that had been falling. Addison immediately drew attention to Gideon, and she clenched her palm. "Let's stop talking to each other," she said. She whispered the words while shaking. As he stood up, Gideon's eyes were extremely wide. "W-what? Why? Have I spoken or done something to make you angry?" Gideon asked. He endeavored to attract the attention of the woman.

"I was doing so poorly in school... that was it." She said something and then bowed her head. As tears began forming in Addison's eyes, the only thing she could see was the grass on the field.

"Hold on," Gideon inhaled deeply, "You can get up to speed. I'll give you time. While you are studying at the library, I shall maintain my composure. I promise—"

"That's not the point at all, Gideon! I really didn't want to continue having this kind of connection with you! You are causing me to become distracted. Gideon, I cannot rely on you in any way. I desired to devote my attention solely to myself while I pursued my goals." When Addison saw the agony in Gideon's eyes after she had said it, she immediately wished that she could take back what she had said as soon as it had left her mouth.

She wanted to shout that it was all a misunderstanding, that she was motivated by jealousy, and that her situation was complicated, but she knew that once she said it, she couldn't take it back.

He bowed his head and let out a booming breath in response. It seemed he was shaking when he asked, "Is that what you wanted?" "Addison, if this is the last time we will see each other, please come closer and hug me."

When Addison realized Gideon was crying, it triggered her emotional breakdown, and she sobbed uncontrollably. He smiled broadly as he spread his arms apart. She rushed into his arms and wrapped her arms around him one final time as the rain poured down heavily around them.

Gideon's hushed words, "Take care of yourself, Addison," gave Addison the impression that something terrible would happen. She was going to speak, but Gideon interrupted her as he kissed her forehead and turned his back on her. This prevented her from speaking.

A weak smile formed on Addison's face as she clutched her chest. Under the ominous clouds and gloomy weather, the two people went their separate ways without ever revealing how they felt about one another. Addison didn't find out that Gideon had already left the nation until the next day when she realized that he wasn't around anymore.

- END OF FLASHBACK -

The question was repeated by Addison, who blinked twice. "Gideon, could that really be you? What exactly are you up to at this place?"

She flushed in shame as Gideon snatched the glass of Martini she was holding and drank it without hesitation. "I was just in Los Angeles yesterday and just got back home. This bar used to be operated by a buddy of mine. After that, I was walking back home from the business when suddenly, I noticed you. Maybe it would be best to remain here for the rest of one's life."

The way that Addison supported her head on Gideon suggested that she had been accustomed to the position at the time. "Today is the filing day for my parent's divorce. And what could be more ludicrous than that? My mother and I were disowned by my father when he fathered a child by her mistress. I was at a loss for words when it came to telling my mum... The tragedy recently befell our family, and we lost everything at a moment's notice."

It appeared as though Gideon was stunned by his quivering lips and wrinkled face. "It makes me sad to hear that. It has to be challenging for you." As Gideon responded, he pulled her hair behind her ears and continued their conversation.

After a few minutes had passed, Addison's phone began to buzz. It was a note from the nurse in charge of her mother's ward, letting her know that her mother had regained consciousness and was awake. When Addison saw Gideon, she turned to him and said, "I have no choice but to return. It's been a while, but it's great to have you back, Gideon."

When Addison first put her foot on the ground, it appeared she was a little tipsy and fell onto Gideon's stern chest.

"I'll give you a ride. You don't need to worry about your car because I will tell my secretary to get it." Because she had no other option, Addison nodded and let Gideon support her. As soon as she got inside Gideon's car, he tightened her seatbelts, which caused her heart to accelerate as their eyes met in a level position. Gideon twitched her nose and laughed as he stepped away while maintaining eye contact.

As soon as they got to the hospital, Addison made a beeline for her mother's room. "M-Mom…" To become closer to Chiara, Addison traveled the distance that separated them. She encircled her mother in a loving embrace and held her captive there.

"Sweetie, I'm sorry..." Amid their embrace, Chiara, her mother, murmured something to her daughter.

"Mom, I don't understand why you did it. I'm still here…" Chiara averted her eyes and sighed.

The attention of Addison and Chiara was brought to the situation when Doctor Weiss cleared his throat. While the doctor was speaking, Addison sat there with her mother's hand in hers and listened intently.

"I would appreciate it if you could lend me your ears for a while. Please be aware that I have both good and bad news to share. Let's start with the strong option first. The fractured leg that your mother sustained can be repaired with the help of a variety of medications and treatments. Recent tests, however, revealed that she had a blockage in her heart, which is a very severe condition. Your mother's life could be in danger if there is a total obstruction of blood flow in her heart, which could bring on a heart attack. She required surgery right away, as soon as it could possibly be done. In addition, in the interest of full disclosure, I estimate it will cost three hundred sixty-six thousand dollars."

The look on Addison's face suggested that a bomb had just gone off in front of her. As she looked at her mother, tears began to form in the corners of her eyes. Chiara stated that she had been coping with it for a long time, but she had chosen to ignore it for so long because she didn't want Addison to be concerned about her condition.

After moments of stillness, Addison finally breaks the silence by telling Doctor Weiss, "Let's begin with the operation."

"But..." "Don't worry, Mom, I'll figure something out, alright?" The reassurance that Addison gave to her mother The look of disapproval in Chiara's eyes indicated that she disagreed with her decision. There was no way that Addison could have come up with such a significant quantity of money on her own, and she would never ask her father for money to pay for her mother's medication.

As soon as Addison had decided what she wanted to do, Doctor Weiss nodded and excused himself from the room. Addison gave her mother a friendly grin before planting a peck on her mother's head. "Don't worry, Mother," I assured her. She mumbled something. For her mother's sake, Haley would cling to the blade of a knife if that was what it took to keep her alive.

When Chiara fell asleep, Addison palmed her face and thought about how many jobs she would have to acquire to ensure she had enough money to pay for the procedure her mother needed. Then the thought of Gideon entered her thoughts, and she stopped thinking about how many jobs she would have to get. She failed to remember that Gideon was accompanying her.

After deciding to relax, Addison stepped outdoors, where she was taken away to see Gideon reclining against the wall. Addison had decided to spend some time for herself. In response to the movement of his stare toward her, Addison quickly averted her look. "I've heard everything," Gideon admitted, "and I don't care."

With a grin, Addison said, "Please accept my apologies for having brought you here. I'm convinced you're a b—huh?" The tears that had started to pour from Addison's eyes were wiped away by the palm of Addison's hand as she stroked her cheeks. As Gideon closed the distance between them and pulled her closer for an embrace, he released an expletive.

After a few distraught moments lasting only a few minutes, Addison and Gideon sat in the waiting area close to her mother's room. While talking to Addison, Gideon brushed her hair and said, "Addison, I can offer you my money."

"No, Gideon. Talking further is unnecessary because we just met today, and you drove me here." Addison murmured something as she smiled broadly, but Gideon could tell from her eyes that she was hiding something.

"Okay, if you change your mind, here," the waiter said. Gideon gave Addison his business card and told her, "Call me whenever you need anything." As Gideon brought her into his arms and ended Addison's concerns, Addison gave a satisfied nod. Now that he was safe again, he had no intention of letting go of the woman in his arms. 

Since then, Gideon and Addison's relationship has improved to the point where it was before that day. When Gideon could do so, he paid Chiara a visit to the hospital and spent the time there with Chiara's mother and daughter.

During this time, Felicity learned via the news that Gideon Harris had succeeded his father as CEO of the family business. He is one of the most eligible bachelors in Asia and the founder of N-Tech, the country's most successful artificial intelligence company. When she saw her ex-lover, she couldn't help but purse her lips in embarrassment because he had become more masculine in appearance and was more challenging to get back into her life.

In the past, Gideon was nothing more than a man with no aspirations other than to play about with a variety of various women. She left him because she was too ambitious to chase her aspirations and wanted a life of privilege more than anything else.

While Felicity's hand was resting on her womb, she smiled broadly. Everything was part of her plan, from how she conned the head of Davis into believing in her scheme that she was carrying his child to how she got pregnant by a random stranger and provided a piece of fraudulent evidence to wreck the family of Addison. Now Felicity wanted to have Gideon all to herself. Her plan included everything from how she conned the head of Davis into believing in her scheme that she was carrying his child to how she got pregnant by a random stranger.

She whispered those words as she stroked her fingers alluringly across the television screen. "It's time to have you back," she added. Felicity's devious plan was inspired by the thought of reuniting with Gideon Harris, who she had previously held in her arms.

Felicity lowered herself quietly down the staircase while concealing her identity with a mask. It just so happened that Landon Baker was sitting on the couch reading a newspaper when she stumbled and fell on the stairs, so her fall was perfectly timed to alert him to her presence.

"M-My b-baby!" She heaved a sigh when she remembered how uncomfortable her tummy was. The bleeding on her thighs was already extensive, and the intensity of the pain was increasing.

"Felicity!" When Landon Baker raced through her and carried her, she couldn't help but smile in private. She felt like she needed to give herself a good smack since the pain in her gut was so intense. Having said that, she couldn't help but feel elated at the prospect of having Gideon within her reach after tonight.

After the pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, Felicity was immediately given medicine. On the other hand, Landon was sad about losing the kid, while Felicity was content with her decision.

As Felicity went down the corridor after fully recovering, she overheard raucous squeals and applause from the other ward.

When Felicity looked up at the mass of people around Chiara's ward, she was shocked to see that Addison and Gideon were among them. Felicity was speechless for a few seconds after Gideon's eyes locked on the woman. Despite this, he turned his attention to Addison and smiled at the woman as if Felicity no longer held any significance for him.

"Are you willing to wed me?" While he was kneeling in front of Addison, Gideon posed the question.

When Addison responded yes, the audience cheered and congratulated the happy couple.

Felicity coveted everything that Addison Baker possessed, which made her green with envy. The good things that happened to Addison were not due to her deserving them. The admiration of gorgeous men and the abundance of care and attention that Addison received was not due to her.

Felicity leaned up close to Addison's ear and said, "My Dear Addison, enjoy those days that you still have your guy in your arms, for soon, he will fall for my wicked plots just like your father," referring to the fact that Addison's father had been duped by her. She is responsible for ensuring that all that Addison possesses belongs to her. She will take them individually until Addison is so overcome with despair that she falls to her knees.

Everything was white, including the flowers used to decorate the venue, the walls, chandeliers, chairs, tablecloths, and the bridal gown Addison wore. The wedding ceremony could not have been held on a more beautiful day. As she grabbed the bouquet of white roses, which is a flower that represents purity and forever, Addison flashed a bright smile.

When Addison looked back on her past, she realized that she had always had dreams in silver and gold. When Sarah and Gideon finally did make eye contact for the first time, it seemed as if it had been only yesterday. How fun it was for fate to shake things up for them by keeping them apart for several years and then bringing them back together again and again. She mumbled to herself as she delicately stroked the petals of it, "I could have never dreamt that today would come."

"I never even considered that possibility. Look at you, Sweetie. You will wear a stunning white gown that every other woman yearns for. And then, one hour later, you and your future husband will take that forever walk down the aisle." Chiara suddenly materialized out of nowhere and carefully positioned the Belo on top of Addison. She used to wear a wedding dress, but it seemed as though destiny was not on her and Landon's side when they got married.

"Mom! I thought you were going to take a nap?" Surprised, Addison expressed her thoughts. Chiara underwent a procedure that went quite well three months ago. She had to take different drugs and treatments for her leg before she could recuperate and resume her normal walking.

Chiara was moved to tears whenever she saw her daughter. The apprehension may prevent Addison from articulating what she is experiencing at the present time. On the other hand, Chiara was aware that Addison was ecstatic as a result of the fact that she would soon be marrying the man she adored.

"How was it ever possible for me to miss my daughter's wedding? In addition to that, it is the happiest day of your life, and I wouldn't want to just sit there and watch it pass by. "Addison's cheeks became flushed as a result of Chiara's snickering.

After some time had passed, Chiara watched as her daughter, with the assistance of the attendants, put on the dress. It appeared her son-in-law did not give much consideration to commissioning a well-known fashion designer to create a luxurious gown for her daughter's special occasion.

In addition, Chiara strolled around the event earlier and noticed that everything, including the designs, designs for the wedding cake, and the highest-paid catering service, shouted opulence. After a moment, Addison turned around. The light shone brightly off the glittering diamonds adorning her wedding gown. Everything about it was flawless, from the sweeping cape to the sweetheart neckline. A few seconds later, Addison moved on to the next step of her cosmetics application, which ultimately transformed her into the most gorgeous bride.

When the wedding automobile arrived, Chiara immediately offered her assistance to Addison so that she could sit in the wedding car. They also had three hands between them, which helped them avoid getting the cape caught on the car door as they drove. When Chiara realized her daughter's hand was sweating in the gunfire, she chuckled.

Addison said to her mother, "Mom, I'm nervous."

"Do not be concerned, my dear daughter. Your nervousness about the wedding will go away in a short time. I have no doubt that Gideon experienced the same thing then. Remember to be cheerful when you are around your future husband, all right?" Addison gave her mother a nod and rested her head on her mother's shoulder.

The fact that Addison's mother could finally crack a smile brought joy to Addison. Because of something that occurred many months ago, the blaze that had been dormant in her eyes was rekindled. She can grin once more, primarily due to her mother-in-law, Chiara, 's support.

The two people arrived at the entrance of St. Brendan's Catholic church in a short amount of time. The person in charge of organizing the wedding ensured that the bridesmaids, ring bearers, and other significant guests were in the correct positions. The professional wedding planner had previously taught them what to do before they began their trek down the aisle.

On the other hand, Addison increased her apprehension when Louis Smith, Gideon's father, gave his hand to grasp her hand and said, "There's no need to be so anxious about this. Following this, you should get used to calling me father." Louis glared at Chiara and flashed a grin at his mother-in-law to smooth over the awkwardness of the situation.

"The Bride has made her entrance!" As soon as the host announced, the audience fell into complete silence. The attention of the throng was riveted on the most beautiful woman there, even though it was daytime. Behind the veil, Addison's mouth moved slightly as she took in the opulent details of the inside decorations of the church.

Although she and Gideon had planned the wedding together, Addison had no idea that Gideon would put so much effort into it or spend so much money on their union.

As soon as Addison stepped inside with her mother and Father-in-law by her side, she felt it would be a journey into eternity. She could make out the many faces inside; several of their classmates from the same year in college were there to watch Addison and Gideon exchange their vows and become husband and wife.

After moments of confusion, Addison spotted her father standing beside her mother-in-law. Landon Baker offered her a smirk that was just perceptible. The focus then went to Addison's mother as she looked up at her. Chiara gave Landon a sincere smile as she told her former husband that she did not have any ill will toward him and that she had moved on from past events. Chiara knew the only way she could get her revenge on Landon was to forgive him.

The song "This I Promise You" by Anthem Lights started playing, and immediately the mood changed to become intense and dramatic. The wedding was almost like a scene from a fairy tale, in which two old friends reconnected and eventually fell in love.

Chiara saw the man her daughter would spend the rest of her life with as she stood at the end of the aisle. Throughout the entire process, Gideon was at their side at all times. He never missed an opportunity to see her and even helped her with her meds. Without a shadow of a doubt, the young billionaire was, in point of fact, an ideal prospect to be the future spouse of her daughter.

Chiara turned her gaze toward the altar, wishing that Addison might be spared the anguish that she had experienced. As Addison's mother, she wanted nothing more than for her daughter to find the one person in her life who would love her for all eternity.

"I will entrust you with the care of my daughter, son. Take good care of her, thank you," murmured Chiara as she slowly removed her grip from her daughter's hand and handed it over to Gideon.

As Gideon pledged his commitment to his mother while he held Addison's hand, he said, "I gave you my word." Before turning their backs on each other, Gideon gave a respectful nod to his father.

During the ceremony, Addison tried to suppress her emotions but was unsuccessful until Dylan gently gripped her hand and said, "I'm here." Before the event's most anticipated and revered part began, Addison could be heard quietly giggling.

Gideon took the blessed ring from the ring bearer, placed it on Addison's finger as if it had been crafted particularly for his bride, and uttered his vow to seal the unbroken circle of love. This occurred after the couple had recited their wedding vows to each other.

"I want to offer you this ring, Addison, as a symbol and a commitment of our undying love and unwavering faith in each other. I love you." The statement made by Gideon while he lovingly glanced at the woman caused the audience to break into tears.

Addison replicated the action with a hand that was shaking. She did so while saying, "Gideon, with this ring on your finger, I wed you and vow to you my love now and forever." She then slipped the band onto Gideon's finger.

"I now declare Addison and Gideon to be man and wife because they have fulfilled their obligations to each other as outlined in the pledges they have made to one another. You are free to kiss the bride at this time."

A burst of applause broke out in the room as the two individuals locked lips in a passionate kiss. Gideon leaned close to Mrs. Smith between each kiss and said, "I love you." When their lips met, Addison responded with a chuckle and declared, "I love you until the end of time, Mr. Smith."

After the ceremony was over, Addison and Gideon entered the reception area with a smile on their faces. When someone announced their arrival, everyone shouted enthusiastically.

After some time had passed, Gideon led Addison to the center of the stage. Suddenly, an image of her and Gideon from their younger years appeared on the massive screen. Some photos of Gideon, who was watching her sleep in the Library, and some secret pictures of her face were taken without her permission.

When morning arrived, many lights flooded the area, creating a sensual atmosphere for everyone. Everyone was having a good time until an unwelcome guest wearing a red dress appeared. After that, things got awkward. After ensuring that Landon Baker wasn't watching, Felicity sat beside him.

When Landon Baker observed Felicity while attending his daughter's wedding, he did not make a fuss when he saw the woman, even during the ceremony. He instead kept silent. He does not want Felicity to attend his daughter's wedding because he does not want it ruined.

After seeing Felicity, Addison, and Gideon were at a loss for words. While looking at his wife and reassuring her that everything would be okay, Gideon held her hand. The fact that no one in the reception area acknowledged Felicity's presence drove the woman, who was already irrational, completely over the edge.

She dressed up to grab the spotlight, but Addison—that bitch took everyone's attention that should have been hers in the first place.

Felicity winced in her seat when she noticed Gideon and Addison having their first dance as newlyweds. Their smiles showed how much they cared for each other.

As Chiara witnessed her daughter's happiness, she wiped her tears and smiled at Lisa Smith, who tapped her shoulder. "My son will take care of your daughter, I assure you. If he did something wrong to Addison, I would be the first in the family to strike him." The two laughed in unison because they believed Gideon couldn't hurt his wife.

When Gideon raised his glass and extended a toast to the two, everyone else at the table followed suit and raised their glasses. The expression on Felicity's face deepened as she tightened her grip on her fist. It is only fair that she takes Addison's spot. She would become Gideon's wife, and she would be the one to carry on the Smith family name after him.

Felicity stood up. She made a face before turning her back and walking away. "Remember about the time you have left. I am going to get what is rightfully mine, Addison. In a short time, I will be the one to take your position and the fate that befalls you will be identical to that which befell your mother three months ago."

The sun had already set, yet its rays illuminated Addison and Gideon's room. When Addison felt her husband's fingertips lightly stroke her cheeks, she couldn't help but snort. "Hon... I'm still exhausted." Her response was a murmur. A crease appeared in her brow when she laughed, and Gideon pinched the bridge of her nose.

When Gideon finished making fun of her, Addison smiled although her eyes were still closed. Not until Addison felt Gideon's lips pressing on hers, which caused her to become short of breath, did she stand up, gasping for oxygen as she did so.

Gideon was the target of Addison's glare. The man did, in fact, have a good time as he taunted her daily.

She went through her closet, looking for a summer dress while holding the blanket wrapped around her naked body and walking through her wardrobe. On the other hand, as soon as Addison caught a peek of herself in the mirror, she grimaced when she noticed that Gideon's love bites were on her neck. She could not count the marks that appeared on her body as if she had been mauled by a beast every night.

When Gideon finished getting out of bed, he scowled at her and asked, "Where's my good morning kiss?"

Then, after wrapping her arms around her husband's neck, Addison gave her spouse a kiss on the cheek. Gideon greeted the morning with a grin as he went through the bathroom carrying her as if they were married all over again. "Good morning," he said. And there, Addison bemoaned the fact that her spouse never seemed to be satisfied.

A few hours later, Addison hummed to herself while wrapping their gift for her mother. Gideon was putting the finishing touches on their brunch. "Are you planning to go and get Mom?" From the kitchen, Gideon peered into the living room.

After pausing for a few periods, Addison vomited: "Mother-in-law stated they will be the ones who will get Mom, so after eating our breakfast, we will continue to the location and organize some things before she arrives."

After the wedding, Chiara approached Addison and Gideon several months ago and asked for their permission to move closer to the city of Long Beach, which is located in Southern California. She explained that she yearned for a new setting in which she could begin a new phase of her life and that she wanted their blessing before making a move. Aside from that, Chiara felt confident that Gideon would never mistreat Addison while she was gone, which is another reason she chose to relocate outside the city.

As both Addison and Gideon arrived at the location, they wasted no time resolving the issues that must be addressed from the pastries, sweets, and culinary delights. The pair decided to get married in the Carondelet House in Los Angeles, California, because Addison recalled that her mother cherished understated yet gorgeous settings.

After a few minutes, their visitors took up all the seats in the room. It appeared that Addison was donning a vintage outfit with a turtleneck. The possessiveness of her spouse made it difficult for her to wear the summer dress she had been looking forward to wearing.

"Are all of the items prepared?" When Addison felt Gideon's hand on her waist, she asked him a question.

"Hmm, all that remains is for the celebrant to arrive." He responded with a tone that had a hint of contentment.

Everyone converged on the center of the building as soon as one of the staff members announced that Chiara had arrived. While Gideon and two other staff members held a party popper, Addison stood in the center of the room with a birthday cake for her mother.

When the door opened, the celebrant, wearing the blindfold, was revealed, along with Lisa Smith and her husband. Chiara's expression changed due to something that Lisa said to her, and she asked, "What's with the co—" but the gaiety interrupted her before she could finish her sentence as she removed her blindfold.

"Congratulations on your half-century!" They all yelled at the same time, which was accompanied by the popping sound of party poppers.

Chiara's eyes moistened with tears as she palmed her mouth and looked bewildered. While approaching her mother while holding the lit birthday cake, Addison made her greeting.

"Best wishes on your birthday, Mom. Make a wish!" A chirp came from Addison. Chiara snorted with laughter as she shut her eyes. She hoped that nothing would change and that Addison and Austin's marriage would remain harmonious and tranquil.

However, as soon as she blew out the candle, the lights began to flicker out, and a rupture occurred in an electrical circuit, which caused everyone to run out of the room and into the street.

Addison hung her head in shame as she contemplated the events that had just transpired. Because Gideon recalled that everything was in order before the commencement of the celebration, he approached the crew and requested that they investigate what had happened. They were shown a faulty wiring plug by one of the employees, which was the cause of Addison losing her voice. She turned to gaze at her mother, who appeared concerned about what had happened.

Chiara comforted her daughter by holding her cheeks and grinning as she said, "It's okay, Mom was shocked, and I am thrilled that you all remember this elderly lady's birthday." Chiara reassured Addison that everything would be all right. Even though she intended for Addison's marriage to be happy and harmonious, she sensed that the event was a portent of ill fortune when it occurred shortly after her request.

The ringtone on Gideon's phone interrupted his confusion. When he discovered who had messaged him, he furrowed his forehead in concentration. It was his ex-girlfriend, Felicity, who did it. Because Felicity was simply someone from his past, Addison was completely unaware of it, and he had no intention of telling his wife about it.

[Felicity Mitchell: Gideon, Do you have any plans for tonight? I have some vital information that I need to share with you. You are the only person I can communicate with at this time. I am no longer capable of suppressing my feelings. If I couldn't find someone to talk to about this, I might attempt suicide soon. I would ask that you would meet me at XX coffee.]

When Gideon was on the verge of erasing Felicity's phone number, a voice within his head told him to type out his response instead.

[Felicity Mitchell: All right.]

"Who was that, your honor? You gave the impression of having some anxiety." When Addison approached him and grabbed his face, Gideon could feel the sweat pouring down his palms in bullets.

"Oh, sorry, I thought you were one of my coworkers. He suggested that some publications regarding the most recent data made public a few weeks ago should be updated."

Despite his best efforts, Gideon could not look his wife in the eye. He got a dreadful feeling as if he had done something wrong. The request for Addison's wife came from his mother, and he merely nodded his head.

Gideon made a fist and gripped it tightly. He had no way of deceiving his wife in any way. He may run across Felicity and advise her to avoid them and their life. He told Addison's parents and in-laws that he would never make her weep and did everything he could to win Addison's approval.

On the other hand, when Felicity received a message from the men she had bribed to ruin Chiara's birthday, she took a glass of champagne and reflected on the situation. It regarded the accomplishment of her strategy. After learning that Addison would throw a party in honor of Chiara on her birthday, Felicity hatched a plot to ruin the celebration.

Felicity commented to Addison, "That was just the beginning, my love," as the conversation continued. She smiled devilishly as she read the message that Gideon had sent her once she had received it. Gideon had consented to meet her later on tonight.

When evening arrived, Gideon informed Addison that he would be meeting one of the investors in his company, and he asked his wife what she enjoyed doing most so that he might purchase it on his way home from the meeting. The strawberry cake was what Addison wanted for her birthday. Gideon checked to make sure that Addison had already fallen asleep before he exited their home and went on his way.

Gideon experienced a twinge of guilt as a result of the lie that he said to his wife. He got in his car and drove to the restaurant where Felicity had texted him.

As soon as he arrived at the location, he went inside as quickly as possible and observed Felicity, who was dejected and nervous. Her lips were chapped, her eyes red, and she didn't appear like her typical self.

"How are things going for you?" Felicity questioned with a raspy voice. Gideon had feelings of pity and compassion for the woman who had been his former love. The Felicity he had previously known was nothing like the lady standing before him now.

"I am fine. Stop making excuses, Felicity; it's time to face the music. I have a husband." Gideon said, deadpan.

Felicity managed a feeble smile. "Good for you," she spoke again after a few seconds of stillness, "Would you mind if I borrowed your attention for a second?"

After a moment of confusion on Gideon's part, the situation became more evident as Felicity began to shake and cry.

"I had been keeping this information to myself up until now. I was sexually assaulted by Landon Baker. H-he coerced me to have sex with him, and he threatened to cut off his financial support for my research if I didn't allow him to take advantage of m-me."

"What?" Gideon was taken aback by the news. His throat became parched. Because Felicity was still shaking, Gideon had to comfort her by holding her tightly in his arms.

"Gideon believed me! I had no intention of becoming his mistress and bringing Addison's family into disrepute. I tried to prevent him from divorcing Addison's mother, but I was pregnant with his child then, and now... I've lost my child... I tried to prevent him from divorcing Addison's mother." Felicity was in such much pain that she even considered hurting herself.

"Felicity, calm down." While drying Felicity's tears, Gideon thought about how cruel Landon Baker was to frighten a helpless woman, so he kept his voice low.

When Gideon saw Felicity in such a helpless situation, it caused him great pain. The woman put some distance between them and gave him a friendly smile. "Considering that you are now married and have parted ways, I've meant to explain why I ended our relationship all those years ago..." When Felicity took hold of Gideon's hand, he became frightened.

"Back then, I wanted you to be successful, so I parted ways with you because I believed I was holding you back from reaching your goals. I am pleased with myself that I was able to accomplish this goal for you. Look at you now. You are a successful individual...and you have a happy marriage."

Before she went, Felicity left Gideon in stunned amazement as she bowed her head and smiled wickedly behind her hand. The sight of tears streaming down Addison's cheeks prevented Gideon from pursuing the woman despite his desire to do so. Even though he knew he loved his wife, he shouldn't have let Felicity's tears affect him.

"What could possibly be wrong with me? It's not right that I should feel this way..." Gideon made a low sound. He was aware that he shouldn't be feeling this way, but he couldn't deny that there was something in his heart telling him that Felicity had and would always have a unique position in his life.